Thursday, September 4, 2014

Have A Dog? You Can't Miss This!

By Jennifer Scott


When it comes to an amazing pet, nothing compares to a dog. You likely care for a dog already, or are considering adopting one, as you have located this article. It isn't easy to take care of a dog, but this article has all the great hints you need to make dog ownership a blast.

Keep on top of fleas. Not only can fleas cause infection in your dog, if one is swallowed, your pet can get tapeworms as well. Speak to your veterinarian about the best prevention method, but remember that this is not a one shot deal. You will have to continue your efforts over the life of your pet.

Pet-proof your home before bringing a dog into it, just as you would for a crawling toddler. You need to move anything toxic to a higher shelf and consider the danger that plants may pose if nibbled by your dog. Remember that anti-freeze is deadly and that leaving things like pennies or crayons on floors can pose a choking hazard to curious pups.

Never lose your temper or punish your dog if you find that they did something wrong. Negative reinforcement will simply make your dog scared, which will make it difficult for you to train them. Use positive reinforcement at all times to get your dog to cooperate when teaching him new things.

A daily brush does a lot more than just prevent shedding. Brushing your pup daily will help make their coat shiny. 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.

Ease your dog into knowing a new baby that comes into your home. Dogs can be very jealous and you need to continue to show him plenty of love an affection, even though you've got a brand new bundle of joy in your life. Talk to the dog as you handle the baby and keep him in the loop.

If you want a dog that behaves well you must take the time to properly train it. If you do not do this then you will almost surely be dealing with behavioral problems for the length of the dog's life. Training is the only way that you can prevent this from happening.

Avoid issues of jealously if you have more than one animal. Particularly if you bring a young dog into the home of an older dog, problems can arise. Be considerate of the patience and energy levels of your senior dog and make sure his feelings aren't hurt by giving the new guy all the attention.

Properly teach your dog how to walk with a leash. The dog needs to stay beside you, not behind or in front of you. It also needs to know the command "heel". If your pet is leash trained, it'll be safer, and you'll enjoy walks more as well. If you are using a loose leash, you help your dog to realize this is the best way to go about it.

Unless you're okay with your dog playing with your shoes and other things around your home, buy him some toys. He will enjoy having things of his own, particularly if they are interactive like pull-toys you can use together. Also buy him things he can use to occupy himself and stay out of trouble!

With all of this great information in hand, prepare to use it to better your dog's life. There is nothing like making your canine companion happy! In return for what you do for your dog, you will get their love back as well as feel great about making them a happy, healthy pup.




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