Christian

TIP! Get your dog spayed or neutered. Research suggests that this small thing can give extended life to your dog by reducing cancer risk.

Owning a dog comes with some responsibilities. By the same token, they will usually go to the door when they need to go to the bathroom. When a dog want attention, they may stare at you with yearning, sad puppy eyes. You can’t always so easily tell what is needed, so keep reading for tips on how to learn the ropes.

TIP! In addition to verbal commands, employ a variety of hand signals when training your dog. It may be easier for your dog to learn commands if they see a visual signal.

If you have medication is your home, even if it is just over-the-counter medication, place it where your dog cannot access it. If your dog has access to these pills, there can be fatal consequences. If this does happen, call your vet immediately.

TIP! Do not force your dog to do anything. If your dog doesn’t like a particular treat, don’t force him to eat it.

Do not fall prey to the temptation to feed table scraps to your dog. This can make your dog not want to eat his dog food, and it will promote begging. Scraps from the table obesity, digestive problems, or other health issues in dogs. Keep the dog away from your table when you eat to avoid any temptation on both parts.

TIP! Take your dog outside so that he can get fresh air and exercise. Dogs need game time and regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically healthy and happy.

Don’t let a dog go off property without their leash, even if they’re well behaved. A wild animal may get his attention and cause him to run off, or he may have a bad situation with others and their dogs. You are the only one responsible for your dog’s safety and his actions.

TIP! Always follow any instructions from the vet carefully, especially if your dog requires medication or other special attention. Your dog likely will not enjoy wearing a cone, but the vet prescribed it for good reason.

Avoid buying your dog bargain-based food. Cheap brands usually contain preservatives such as sodium and other additives that can be dangerous for your dog’s health. Check out professional recommendations from groups online. Food that is healthy will benefit your dog.

TIP! Even if you seek a pure bred animal, you should not overlook the pound. A lot of dog owners leave their dogs in the city pound when they can’t look after their dog anymore.

If your dog has to stay outside during cold weather, give him a dog house. If your dog happens to get his feet wet for a long period of time in cold temperatures, it can cause health complications. Keep your dog safe from wind, rain and snow by providing it with a house with lots of room and a dry floor.

TIP! Be politically active on behalf of your pooch! Watch local legislation that passes to see how it regulates or restricts the rights and behavior of dog owners. Sometimes, a small number of bad dogs get more publicity than a large number of good dogs.

Speak with a vet as soon as possible if you are adopting a dog. Shelter dogs may have come into contact with viruses or may be ill already. Error on the side of caution and get your dog all its shots.

TIP! Anytime your dog has an accident in your home, remove any trace of it. Use a product specifically designed to clean and remove pet odors.

Make sure to exercise your dog often. Your dog has to be worked out to stay happy and healthy. Your dog will get the exercise it needs (and you’ll be a little more active yourself!) from virtually any kind of outdoor activity you share with it. Not only will you both get adequate exercise, these activities help you develop a long lasting bond with your dog.

TIP! Check your dog for ticks and fleas daily once it gets warmer outside. If you spot any fleas, you can remove them with a flea comb.

Always buy high quality food for your best friend. When you look at the big picture, it is good for your dog to consume nutritious, good quality food. It costs more, but you’ll save money on vet bills for health issues down the road.

TIP! Are you aware that vitamins can actually harm dogs? If your dog’s already getting the nutrients that it needs, you won’t need to add vitamins to its diet. Having excess vitamins can damage bones, blood vessels and joints.

Whatever your vet recommends, do it. He may not like wearing a cone over his head, but it’s prescribed for a reason! Your vet makes recommendations that will help your dog be happy and healthy, so you should follow your vet’s advice.

TIP! You need to consider your own life when you are thinking about getting a dog. Wanting a dog is a piece of cake, but actually taking care of one is harder.

Certain dog breeds are prone to specific health issues, so be aware of what is typical for your dog’s breed. Research the kind of dog you have and see if there are any preventative measures you can take. You can also speak with your vet about any precautionary measures you can take to help your dog avoid the problems associated with his breed.

TIP! Positive reinforcement is the best tool for dog training. The promise of reward or praise will motivate your dog more quickly and pleasantly than domination or force.

If your dog is a female and in heat, you need to be careful if you’re not trying to get her pregnant. A male is able to smell her from as much as five miles in the distance! She could also cause fighting among other dogs, along with becoming pregnant with an unwanted litter of unknown origin.

TIP! Just because your dog is contained outside does not mean that he does not need as much attention as an indoor dog. When left by himself all the time, he may pick up negative habits, such as biting, chewing, and barking.

Dogs often get cuts from stepping on glass and other debris. If your dog happens to get a cut, wash it thoroughly and put a bandage on it. See a vet if they have a deep cut.

TIP! When it is hot outside, do everything necessary to keep your dog safe. Dogs become overheated very quickly.

Adding a dog to your life is not a decision that should be taken lightly. It’s a great deal of responsibility, after all. Take everything into consideration first to make sure you can provide your puppy with everything that he needs and to be able to manage it successfully.

TIP! Your dog requires cleaning just as a human would. A weekly cleaning will prevent ticks and fleas from festering on your dog.

We can look at a dog’s face and know what he is feeling. Therefore, it is crucial for you to implement body language when communicating. Your dog will love that you do this!