Making Your New Dog Into Your Best Friend

Isn't it great owning a dog? People the world over love dogs, with good reason. Dogs are quite affectionate and like to be active and have fun. They are great companions. You need to be a great companion to them as well, so you have to give them the right care. Consider the ideas presented here for enhancing your dog's well-being.

If your dog gets lost, it is very unlikely that you will see him again unless he has proper identification. Tags can come off, so the best option is a microchip. It is quick to put in your dog, and it causes minimal discomfort. Simply register the chip ID after it is put in, and your pet will always have his identification with him.

It is important for you to take your dog in to see the vet on a fairly regular basis. Just like humans, dogs can develop health problems like toothaches, arthritis and weight gain. Do not wait until you think your dog is sick before taking him in to be seen.

If your vet gives you medication to take home and administer to your dog, be sure and ask for ideas on getting him to swallow it. Dogs differ in their tolerance of pills and badly-flavored liquids, so have a few tricks up your sleeve in case he resists. Getting a dog to take medicine is important, but often challenging.

Let your dog know who is boss! Unless shown otherwise, a dog will naturally assume that he is the leader of the pack - once this has been established it is quite difficult to persuade him otherwise! When disciplining your dog, be firm in tone, but calm. Never punish a dog in a physical manner, as this will lead to lifelong mistrust. Also, when he behaves, remember to praise him!

Dogs need a great deal of attention on a daily basis. If you have a hard time making time for your dog you will soon notice that there are behavioral problems that were not there before. In the least, you should try to set aside an hour each day just to love your dog.

Do not keep your dog outdoors all day. Lots of folks do this, but it's bad because dogs need constant attention. A dog with no companions can feel very isolated and stressed out if he is left alone outside. Plus, bad weather can be health and even life threatening to your pet.

Whatever your vet recommends, do it. The dog may hate that cone on its head, but it's there for a very good reason! You will leave your dog open to serious health problems down the line if you do not follow the advice from your vet for the health of your dog.

Keep your dog's teeth clean and healthy with regular brushing. Most canines don't mind you brushing their teeth, provided you introduce them to the process slowly and gently. Use a specially designed dog brush, along with other products made just for him. Remember to provide him with toys and biscuits that will also clean and protect his teeth.

If you've got the most well-behaved and lovable dog around, share his good nature with those less fortunate. You could bring him to visit the elderly in nursing homes or sick children in hospitals. Not only will you be improving the quality of life for those people, but your dog will love being a super-star wherever he goes!

You are your dog's best friend as he is yours. This information will help you take great care of your pet. Your dog should have a great life, and after reading this, you both will.