Dogs provide joy to many lives when they get proper care. If you want your dog to be healthy and happy, then you must learn to help them with what they need. In this article, you’ll find excellent advice that will help you and your pet live in harmony.

It is fine to hug your dog, but avoid those wet kisses. Kissing a dog might seem cute, but they have dirty mouths. They eat garbage or poop and even sniff other dog’s butts. It is an old wives’ tale that dogs have cleaner months than humans. It simply is not true.

Don’t let your dog out of your property without wearing a leash, regardless of how well he behaves. He can be scared away by some wild animal, or an unforeseen provocation with another dog can result in an unpleasant situation. Your dog is your responsibility.

If you have a dog that does something right, like sitting when you’re getting out the leash, you should give the animal lots of praise and affection. This communicates to your dog that he is doing just exactly what you want. In this way, your dog will learn that desired behavior brings praise.

Trim your dog’s nails on a regular basis. Once the nails start to curl under, they can cause your dog a great deal of pain. Buy some clippers from a pet store and cut them yourself. If your dog does not respond well when you try to trim the nails, a groomer or even your veterinarian can handle the task.

If your vet gives you special instructions for your dog’s care, follow them to the letter. Dogs may resist wearing cones, but they are there for good reason. It is always best to follow the recommendations shared by your veterinarian.

Show the dog that he is loved. Make sure you don’t only focus on the negative things that your dog does. With dogs, this can lead to trouble. Instead, scold your dog less and praise him more. This will reinforce that positive behavior brings due rewards, and thus lead to a better behaved pet.

Get your dog spayed, and if you have a female in heat, take extra care that she does not become pregnant. A male dog is able to smell her from up to five miles away. This can cause dogs to fight over her, and she may get pregnant by a dog you are unfamiliar with.

Dogs sometimes get tiny cuts on their paws. Clean any small cuts on your dog with antiseptic, and bandage the area. Go to a vet if it seems like the cut is very deep.

A dog should always be brought to the vet for regular checkups. You must keep up with vaccinations, heartworm testing and physical exams for your dog. Puppies tend to need the vet more than adults. You need to go to the vet as soon as your dog seems sick or hurt.

Dogs bring joy to all they meet. However, in order to have a positive relationship with a pooch, you must take the time to learn about keeping him happy and healthy. This article has told you what you need to know, so start using the advice you’ve read today.

Thanks for reading! For more great dog information, follow this link.

Check out the Mother of all Dog Sites.