Are you concerned about taking care of your dog? People can sometimes feel overwhelmed with the amount of care that a dog needs. Some others think their dog is incapable of behaving. The information that follows can help you be a responsible pet owner.
Getting a dog is going to cost you some money. Expect to spend from $700 to as high as $1000 in a year to pay for medical attention, food and other items needed. A sick dog could cost you tens of thousands! Look into doggie health insurance!
Use hand signals when training your dog along with verbal commands. Your dog might learn commands more easily using this approach. Try both methods to see which your dog prefers.
Positive reinforcement is very important in training your dog. This communicates to your dog that he is doing just exactly what you want. This will also give your dog incentive to be good.
Don’t give table scraps to your dog. This will make your dog beg all of the time and also will make it not want to eat its regular food as much. Giving your dog table scraps isn’t good for his health as it could result in weight gain and digestive problems. While you and your family dine, keep your dog in another room so that table-feeding isn’t an option.
If you have just one dog who spends lots of time alone, consider getting a buddy dog. Dogs are known to be pack animals and enjoy the company of other dogs. Choose a friend for your dog that has the same energy level and temperament and you will make your dog very happy.
If you are considering a dog but aren’t sure, why not trying providing a good foster home for a dog? The shelters are full of homeless pups and lack many resources because of the overcrowding. You can foster one to help out the cause and find out if you want to keep one!
Dedicate enough time to correcting bad behavior right away. If you ignore an unwanted behavior, it is as good as reinforcing it. It will become very difficult to correct the more time passes. Your dog might hurt someone else, or you, so take steps to control him early on.
Take your dog outside so that he can get fresh air and exercise. Dogs need routine activity and play in order to stay happy and healthy. Whether you decide to take the dog for a walk or if you’re just playing fetch, it will benefit both of you. Exercise is a great way to bond with your pet.
If your vet gives you special instructions for your dog’s care, follow them to the letter. Dogs may resist wearing cones, but they are there for good reason. Recommendations that a vet makes are for the good of your pet and if you don’t adhere to these things it could be bad for your pet.
Make sure that you use the tips and advice from above. Use it liberally and you will see that your dog can be a model of good behavior. Your happy dog will show you unconditional love.