Content by-Marker Conner

Some say a dog owns you, you do not own a dog. Once you have a pup in your household, you are likely to agree. That said, your responsibilities in caring for the dog will be great. Read on to find out what you need to know about caring for your dog correctly.

Be careful with your dog around Christmas season, many dangers are lurking just under the festive ambiance. For instance, electrical chords are typically strewn about during the holidays, and dogs often chew them, creating an electrical hazard. Dogs may be tempted to eat the decorations on the tree. They may also be tempted by the tree water, which can be toxic.

Much like people in the United States, many dogs are overweight. Having a few extra pounds on their frame can lead to a number of health problems, like cancer or diabetes. Many owners simply overfeed their pets. Talk to your veterinarian about how many calories your dog needs each day so you can adjust their meals accordingly.





Offer rawhide rather than actual meat bones. Real bones can chip or break and are dangerous for the dog. Rawhide is completely healthy and improves the teeth, and therefore is preferable to animal bones.

Why Is My Dog Not Eating His Food

Talk to your vet about how much your dog should eat. Many people look at the guidelines on the dog food bag; the problem with this is that some of the recommendations may be inaccurate and could cause your dog to gain weight. Ask your vet what the right meal plan is for your dog.

If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, he or she may eventually come in contact with a skunk. If he gets sprayed, mix together one teaspoon of dish-washing detergent, a fourth a cup of baking soda and a quart of hydrogen peroxide solution (but make sure it is no more than three percent). Apply the mixture to your dog's coat and allow it to sit for five minutes. Wash fish based dog food nz off well afterward.

How Much Food To Feed Your Dog

Don't assume your toy-sized dog's bite isn't dangerous, just because he's little. A lot of owners brush-off training, thinking that the smaller breed dog can get away with a little bad behavior and this isn't true. As a responsible canine master, you've got to make certain your dog does not pose a threat to anyone by having him well trained.

Dog training requires you to be consistent. Once you decide you want to establish a rule for your dog, do not make any exceptions. Make sure everyone at home helps you enforce the rule and encourage your guests not to let your dog jump on them or to not acknowledge your dog when it barks.

Where Is Natures Recipe Dog Food Made

Put your dog through obedience training. A well-trained dog is a joy to live with for both you and them. Teaching them simple commands like "Come,"� "Heel,"� "Sit,"� and "Stay"� can help curb or prevent troublesome behaviors in no time. You can either teach them yourself, or you can find out about obedience courses by contacting the SPCA or the local humane society for class recommendations.

Just like people, dogs need plenty of exercise for optimum health. Dogs are naturally hunters and love to run by instinct. Take your dog to the park, play Frisbee with him and give him a daily walk. This will help keep him physically healthy but will also make him mentally healthier.

Your dog needs to exercise regularly. Like humans, dogs must exercise to burn calories, remain healthy, and help their minds stay sharp. Exercising also helps them avoid boredom that can cause destructive behaviors. Keeping your dog active can curb chewing, biting, digging, and chasing urges. It can even help them avoid depression.

Have your current dog choose your new dog. Though most are sociable, certain dogs are better able to get along with other dogs than others. If you find one that gets along with your current one, you'll save yourself a lifetime of headaches.

Outdoor doghouses are not enough to keep your furry friend comfortable in cold weather. You must also provide some sort of bedding for him. Choose from straw, hay, cedar bedding or even blankets. Make sure that you change the bedding often no matter what you choose to ensure that there no bugs move in and mold doesn't grow.

If you're on a tight budget at home, think carefully before getting a dog. They actually cost hundreds of dollars annually, but many people don't realize this until they've actually forked over the money. Depending on why not find out more and regular maintenance requirements of your new dog, you could be getting in way over your head and forced to part with him later so make sure beforehand.

Watch what your dog is eating. When a dog is a puppy, he can eat calorie filled foods because he is growing. However, when these same foods are eaten during adulthood, they could cause extreme weight gain, which can cause damage to your dog's health.

Take your dog for regular vet visits. At regular intervals your dog needs heartworm testing, vaccinations, and general check-ups. If your dog is younger, make sure that you go to the vet often. If you see any signs of injury or illness, talk to your vet immediately.

If you leave your dog with a boarder, there are certain things you need to tell them. First, make sure the boarder has a number to reach you in case of an emergency. Also, tell them of any behavioral issues you dog has. If the dog needs special foods or medication, let the boarder know this as well.

Keep your dog hydrated. Similar to humans, dogs need plenty of fresh water to drink. If a dog doesn't get enough water, they can easily get dehydrated, sick, and possibly die. Provide them with a fresh water bowl every day. Always keep it filled and clean for them. Keep the bowl in single location.

If your pooch is always chewing, get them bones or toys to chew on. These toys are made for the dog's chewing needs. There are many places you can buy these things, including your local supermarket.

In summary, dogs are good for the soul. That said, you have to understand them to return the favor. Reading this article was a great first step, giving you tons of tips. Utilize this advice, and continue to research on new advice to ensure you are the best possible dog owner.