TIP! If you have medication is your home, even if it is just over-the-counter medication, place it where your dog cannot access it. Just a few of your pills could literally kill your dog.

Are you wondering how to take better care of your dog? Sometimes it can be overwhelming when you have to take care of a dog if you don’t know what to do. Some think they will always have a misbehaved pooch. The tips below give you a lot of suggestions for helping your dog.

TIP! Watch out for dog flea treatments. A lot of these medications have ingredients that can be harmful to children and can cause cancer.

Just like humans benefit from an annual physical, your dog should see the vet at least once a year. Because your dog is unable to speak, you may not know for sure when your dog feels sick or has an injury. A yearly checkup will help you find any problems before they become huge issues.

TIP! In your backyard or in your house itself is the right place to start training your dog. You shouldn’t train your dog where many other people are present.

Always make sure to keep any prescription medications away from your dog. The same holds true for over-the-counter meds. Even if the dog were to eat a couple of pills, it could have very life threatening effects. If your dog happens to get into any such pills, call your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately.

TIP! Choose a dog in that can easily and happily blend into your lifestyle. If you are very active, think about getting a dog that will run with you.

If you are not sure how often you should feed your dog, ask your vet. While some people feed their dogs according to the dog food package guidelines, these guidelines can be incorrect and lead to an overweight dog. Therefore, ask your vet the acceptable amount of dog food your dog needs to ensure its health and well-being.

TIP! If your dog does something the correct way, such as sitting before you put the leash on, make sure that you give it tons of affection and praise. This communicates to your dog that he is doing just exactly what you want.

Make sure that you’re giving your dog enough exercise. Playing and exercising are two crucial components of any healthy dog’s life. No matter what you do, whether it’s going for a long walk or simply throwing a ball or stick, both you and your dog will benefit. Exercising with your dog will help you establish a bond with it.

TIP! Do not buy the cheapest dog food. Cheap brands are full of fillers, preservative and even chemicals.

Never leave any dog outside for long durations. Understand that dogs need to interact with other people and animals. Only having one dog can cause him to get lonely. If you’re area is experiencing rain or snow, you’ll need to bring your dog inside to prevent your dog from getting ill.

TIP! Try giving the dog rawhide versus actual meat bones. Real bones can chip and fragments may become lodged in their mouths or digestive tract.

Take some time to trim your dog’s paw beds during every grooming session. This can help prevent mats. First comb the hair, then give it a trim. You can always use a dog groomer if you find the process difficult.

TIP! Dedicate enough time to correcting bad behavior right away. You should never ignore bad behaviors when they are puppies because this will make it a lot harder to correct down the road.

Let your dog know that you care. As is often the case, dog owners frequently focus on bad behavior instead of good. This may spell trouble in the future. On a ratio of five:one, seek out the positive things your dog does and reward him accordingly. When you do this, you will probably end up with a better behaved dog.

TIP! If you choose to adopt a pet, take him or her to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Dogs from pounds are exposed to more illnesses than others.

If you’ve got just one dog and he doesn’t seem all that happy or is left alone a lot, think about getting him a friend. Dogs naturally live in packs, and they are happiest when they are allowed to do so. Giving them some canine companionship can have a very positive effect on their mood and behavior. Match the two dogs by energy levels and temperament, and both dogs will be in heaven!

TIP! Take your new dog to the vet. Make a vet appointment right after the dog comes home.

Dogs can cut their paw beds when stepping on glass, rocks or other debris. If your dog gets a small cut, wash it with an antiseptic and place a bandage around the area. If the cut seems unusually deep, take your dog to see the veterinarian.

TIP! If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, or you simply want to be extra nice to him, leave some music on when you go to work. Having noise will help your dog feel more secure and comfortable while you are away.

Even if you have a dog that is kept outdoor most of the time, the pet still needs plenty of love and attention. Your dog will acquire poor habits like digging or barking if it’s left isolated for too long. He may also become a little aggressive. Lavish attention and love on him.

TIP! Your dog needs to have mental stimulation as well as ways to become physically active too. Bring him outside and teach him how to fetch.

Being a dog owner will keep you busy. Sometimes, you may feel overwhelmed with the chores. You should now have the information you need to help you be the best pet owner possible. Soon, you’ll be doing a lot less worrying.