Owning a dog is a serious matter. You must make sure your dog is always happy and healthy. Education is the key here, so do everything possible to make sure you are knowledgeable about dog care.

You will pay a lot to take care for your dog. Every dog is going to need supplies, good food, and will also need medical care. After all is said and done this could cost about $800 or more. Pet health insurance can help; although you will pay a monthly or yearly fee, you will often be covered if a big medical emergency occurs for your pet.

Hugging is okay but kissing should be avoided. While those sloppy kisses may be cute, be aware that your dog’s mouth is apt to be crawling with germs and bacteria. Dogs dig in trash cans, drink from toilet bowls and sniff and lick various body parts on themselves and other dogs. Many people believe that the human mouth has more germs than that of a dog – this isn’t true. Definitely do not believe that!

Be sure to schedule a check up for your new friend with a trusted veterinarian. Make the appointment when you buy your dog. The veterinarian will do a full checkup and set a schedule for his vaccinations. Also discuss the spaying or neutering process with your vet. This can help to eliminate unwanted animals and keep your dog happy and healthy for a longer period of time.

Teach your dog the proper way to walk while on a leash. Make him walk at your side, and do not let him pull far in front of you or stay far behind. Use the command “heel” to prompt him. Walking this way will help to keep your pet safe, and it will make it easier for you to enjoy walks too. Even if you’re using loose leashes for walking here and there, make sure the dog understands this command.

When giving your dog medication or special treatment, follow vet instructions closely. The dog may not be fond of the treatment or medication, but it’s for its health. Your vet makes recommendations that will help your dog be happy and healthy, so you should follow your vet’s advice.

Some dog breeds are more prone to problems than others and you should know if your dog could have problems. Do what you can to combat those issues early. Ask your veterinarian what steps can be taken to prevent issues that are common with your dog’s breed.

Even if you seek a pure bred animal, you should not overlook the pound. Many pet owners abandon their dogs at the pound when they no longer want to, or are able to, keep them. You can contact the local dog shelter to see what breeds are there. You may even save a poor dog’s life.

Female Dog

Be cautious with your female dog if she’s in heat. If you don’t, she may become pregnant. Males can pick up the scent of a female dog in heat, and this can even happen from several miles away. In addition, a female dog in heat can cause fighting among dogs in the local area. If you don’t want a set of puppies, keep her away from male dogs.

Be sure your dog wears identification so it can always get back home. This is typically a collar with a tag on it. On the tag, make sure to include your pet’s name and your phone number. Micro-chipping is an even better method.

You must keep a close eye on what and how much your dog eats. Puppies need to eat foods with lots of calories in order to grow. However, it is harmful for a dog to keep eating a high-calorie diet as it approaches adulthood.

Do not expect your dog to do too much. When you train your dog, remember his attention span isn’t like yours. Spend a few minutes a day training your dog what you want him to learn.

Talk to your vet to learn which food is right for your dog. Some dogs may require a special diet, such as dogs who have diabetes. Dogs with medical conditions could be harmed by eating the wrong diet. Your vet can make recommendations for the best feeding plan.

Your puppy may be cute when it starts nibbling slippers, but it will not be when it’s older and chewing them to bits. You should stop habits like this as soon as they start. As soon as your puppy participates in bad behavior, you should immediately get it to stop, regardless of how cute it is. You will be saved much trouble down the line.

If you’ve got kids, you’re aware of scheduling around their lives. Dogs are very similar in this respect. When your dog has no idea when it will eat, go out or have fun, it may become ill tempered. The behaviors they show will reflect their mood. So make sure you set a time for play, meals and training.

Busy dogs tend to be happier. Dogs get bored so easily. This can cause your dog to chew or have other negative behaviors. If your dog is comfortably tired at the end of the day, he will be happy. Provide your dog with enough activities and things to do.

Recalled Products

Keep abreast of the latest news about pet food, especially recalled products. There are recorded cases of lethal pet food in stores. One of the best ways to get timely notices about recalled products is from online communities. These resources often provide notice of problems well before the issues reach the national media.

The data provided here is now yours to put to use, so get to work! Use what you learned and you can have a great pet. There’s no reason to have a dog if you aren’t going to give them a good life, so use the things you’ve read to your advantage!