Learn All You Have Ever Wanted To Know About Dogs

Isn't it great to have a dog? Everyone seems to love dogs. Dogs love to play, love to give affection, and are very good at cheering their owners up. They make great companions. So, you should love them back and be a good friend to them, and ensure that they are always properly cared for. Consider the following suggestions to help guide you.

  If you keep some medication in your home, make sure your dog cannot access it. Many medicines that benefit you can be harmful or fatal to your dog. If, by chance, a dog does eat some of your pills, contact the vet right away.

If you bring your pet on vacation with you, keep a picture of him with you, particularly on your phone. This will be helpful should he get lost.

When choosing a dog, make sure you consider your lifestyle. For instance, if you are athletic, you might want an active dog, not a poodle. On the other hand, a cuddly small dog may be perfect for those who enjoy a quiet evening reading on the couch. Keeping a mismatch out of play makes both of you happy.

When you brush your dog every day, you reduce shedding problems and benefit your dog's health in many ways. Their coat will become shinier when they are brushed everyday. When you brush a dog, you are moving the skin's oils evenly throughout its fur, so it really makes the fur shine and feel great.

  Don't get sub-par food for your dog that's from a bargain store. Cheap brands usually contain ingredients that can be harmful to the health of your dog. Find a list of recommended dog foods from the vet or an advocate for animals. Your dog will appreciate your research.

Teach your dog the proper way to walk while on a leash. Your dog should know how to heel and not behind you or ahead of you. Walking in this manner keeps your dog safe, and you are bound to enjoy walks more as well. Regardless of how you intend to take your walks, this is a good command for your dog to know.

If you'd like to be a dog owner, but think you might not be able to handle the commitment, consider fostering dogs. Shelters are full of animals who need a loving home, and there's not room to hold all of them. Fostering a dog will both help the cause and allow you to test drive the responsibility involved with pet ownership.

Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise. This will keep his bones and muscles strong and healthy. From a simple walk to a vigorous game of fetch, both of you will find the time well spent. In addition to providing much needed exercise, you will develop a lifelong bond with your pup.

Take your new dog to the vet. When you bring them home, schedule a vet appointment. In addition to giving your dog a check up, the vet will schedule vaccinations. Remember that there is a tremendous dog overpopulation problem, so you should have your dog spayed/neutered.