All You Need To Know About Having A Dog

There are different families, and different kinds of dogs. By knowing a few things about caring for a dog, you can be better prepared to own one. The following article will help you to properly take care of your dog.

Hugging is okay but kissing should be avoided. Kisses from dogs are adorable, but they're a lot less cute when you realize how filthy your dog's mouth actually is. Dogs dig in trash cans, drink from toilet bowls and sniff and lick various body parts on themselves and other dogs. There is an old wives' tale that says that the mouth of a dog is cleaner than that of a human. This is completely wrong!

Get your dog spayed or neutered. Studies have shown that this leads to the pet living a longer and much healthier life. Dogs that are neutered or spayed don't have strong urges to leave their home, reducing their chances of getting hit by a vehicle or getting lost.

Be careful with canine flea treatments. Some of them contain chemicals that can increase the risk of cancer in children, and are 1,000 times as strong as the safe levels recommended by the EPA. Ask the vet about flea powders and other products that are less hazardous for kids.

Keep your dog on leash any time he leaves your fenced yard, regardless of his gentle nature and good behavior. A wild animal may set your dog off and send it running into traffic, or someone could provoke your dog and get injured by accident. You will be to blame if your dog gets hurt for being off his leash.

Trim your dog's nails on a regular basis. When they start curling under, the dog runs the risk of experiencing pain. Try trimming them with scissors you buy at the store. If you aren't confident enough to do it yourself, take the dog to a local pet groomer.

You should always trim your nails. Long nails cause huge amounts of pain. You can always do your own trimming with clippers from the store. It is best to take your dog to the groomer if you do not want to do it yourself.

Some breads are prone to illness, and you need to know if yours is one of them. Research his background and prepare for problems he might have. Also, see what advice the vet has in terms of helping your dog overcome breed liabilities.

Whenever you adopt from the pound, take the dog straight to the vet. Shelter dogs have numerous opportunities to be exposed to harmful bacteria and viruses; these can result in dangerous illnesses. Have your dog checked over and given vaccinations as soon as possible.

If you have a lone dog think about getting another if he is feeling lonely. The company could do your pet a lot of good. Get one that is similar in energy level and temperament and your dog will be in heaven.

Are you aware that feeding your dog vitamins can be dangerous? Your dog doesn't need a vitamin supplement if he is eating a well-balanced diet. You can cause damage to your dog's joints, bones and circulatory system with excessive vitamins. Have a conversation with your veterinarian before adding any vitamins to your dog's diet.

Taking care of a dog should be a serious matter. An animal is just like any other member of the family, and it needs to be taken care of so it can survive. It's a big job, but you can do it. You have this article to help you if you need it, so take care of your dog.