Dog Owner Advice For Those New To Dogs

Regardless of your level of experience with dogs, it is likely that you know that there is a lot that goes into raising a new dog. This is not something you can just jump into with no information. You should keep reading to learn more being a good dog owner.

It is important to puppy-proof your home. Prior to bringing the pooch home, check that the whole home is safe. Cleaning supplies and medications should be locked away, and any indoor trash cans need to be put in a cabinet. Some common house plants that are toxic to pets should be removed from your home.

Always, have your dog spayed or neutered. Statistics show that doing this can reduce your dog's cancer risk, which can result in a longer life span. Not only that, but neutered and spayed dogs feel less need to wander away from home, so they are not as likely to be hit by a vehicle or become lost.

Purchase a dog that can keep up with your lifestyle. Joggers should get a high energy dog, for example. If you spend more time in the home, a more sedate, indoor dog will fit your lifestyle best. Both of you are sure to be happier if you choose a good match.

When vacationing with your dog, use the camera on your phone to snap a quick picture. This will be helpful should he get lost.

Don't give your dog leftovers from your own plate. This will only teach him to beg constantly and also inhibit his appetite toward his regular food. Table scraps can also be unhealthy and lead to excess weight and digestive problems. You can keep your dog healthy and avoid any temptation to feed it from the table by teaching it to spend dinnertime well away from your family.

If your vet has given you medication or special instructions for your dog, make sure that you follow them. He may not like wearing a cone over his head, but it's prescribed for a reason! Vet recommendations are for the health and well-being of your dog and failure to adhere to them could result in serious problems.

Take the time to train your dog on a leash. Your dog should remain at your side and know the command "heel." This keeps you and your dog safe as you walk. Regardless of how you intend to take your walks, this is a good command for your dog to know.

Show the dog that he is loved. In life, it is far too common to give bad behavior more attention than good. This could lead to trouble down the line. 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.

When buying your dog's food, do not get the cheap stuff. In the long run, it is beneficial to be feeding your dog high quality, nutritious food. Even though you are paying more, it will save on health bills down the road.

Your dog needs plenty of affection. Do not focus on just the negatives with your dog. This often results in problems later. Try to ensure that you praise or give affection to your pet at least five times for every instance of reprimand or scolding. This will reinforce that positive behavior brings due rewards, and thus lead to a better behaved pet.

When engaged in dog training, stick to the methods that use positive reinforcement. Rewards and praise make your pet learn faster than threats and violence. This means he'll learn what you're teaching more easily. So be kind to your dog when you are training him; you will be rewarded with positive results.

When you're training, experiment using various reward systems. Figure out what motivates your dog to perform well. If your pet loves food, try giving it its favorite vet approved treat. Should your dog like toys, do some tug of war when your dog has done what you desired. Some dogs will enjoy being petted and rubbed by doing this.

So much must be considered in order to take proper care of your beloved dog. The job doesn't end with setting out food and taking the occasional walk. Give the proper affection to your dog, and show him a lot of compassion. Like that, you can both enjoy many healthy happy years together.