Dog Advice

Caring For a Dog

Having a dog is immensely rewarding. It can be great fun too. But keep in mind that bringing home a new dog is a big step and a huge responsibility. Dogs have complex needs. Think critically about your future, such as family plans, and whether a dog fits with your plans. Always adopt, never buy. Virtually all dogs purchased in pet stores or online come from puppy mills.

This article will help you ensure your dog is healthy and happy.

Dog Facts

Dogs have well-developed senses. This includes an incredible sense of smell which is far superior to humans. Dogs see better than us in dark and dim light. Dogs can detect sounds up to four times quieter than humans.
Dogs communicate in numerous ways including scent information and sounds like whines, whimpers, growls, barks and howls. Dogs also use body language using their body, face, tail, ears, and limbs.
Most dog breeds are athletic. The fastest recorded speed for a greyhound is 42 mph, similar to a racehorse that’s mounted.
Dogs are very social and need company. Many enjoy the company of other dogs so if your dog is friendly towards other dogs, allow them to interact on a regular basis. Many dogs will either chase or be afraid of animals they don’t know. Make introductions carefully, whether introducing dogs to each other or introducing dogs to cats. Many dogs are hostile to cats and other smaller animals.
If you have more than one dog, house them together if possible but make sure they have enough space and can get away from one another if they want to.
Dogs form strong social bonds with humans, especially those in their lives.
Dogs can learn the names of their toys. In time they learn the names of toys and can reliably fetch the correct toy when asked to.

A Healthy Diet for Dogs

Dogs deserve good food. Feeding them the right type and amount is crucial to their well-being.

Feed your dog at least once per day.
Human food isn’t ideal since most don’t provide dogs with the nutrition they need. Some human foods are poisonous to dogs. Foods that are toxic to dogs include alcohol, chocolate, onions, garlic, avocados, grapes, nuts, coffee, and sugar free gum.
Give dogs the correct amount of dog food to make sure they don’t become under or overweight. The amount of food your dog needs depends on their age, diet, lifestyle, and health.
Read and follow the feeding instructions on dog foods bought.

If a dog’s eating or drinking habits change call a vet since it could be a sign that a dog is ill.

Water

Provide a dog constant access to clean drinking water. A dog not provided sufficient water will become ill within hours.

Treats

Every dog loves a treat. Make sure a dog has delicious and healthy dog treats at home. Treats should never make up more than 10% of a dog’s diet. Before purchasing dog treats read the label. Look for high quality whole food ingredients. Those listed first are generally the higher percentage. Avoid as much as possible artificial sweeteners. Opt for a natural sweeteners like honey. Try to avoid chemical and artificial additives and preservatives and chemical humectants such as those used for moisture content.

Treats are a great training tool to reinforce good behavior. Providing dogs treats lets them know we love them and is a excellent way to bond with them.

Help a Dog Behave Well

The way a dog behaves depends on their age, personality, breed, and their past experiences. Ensuring a well-behaved dog starts with choosing a type and size of dog that fits you and your children if any, your home, and your lifestyle. Importantly, dog behavior depends on how they’re look after by owners and others.

What to Avoid

Physical discipline such as hitting a dog or shouting has negative consequences. It breaks trust and breeds a distrust throughout a dog’s lifetime. It creates insecurities on whether or not or when the next painful punishment will occur. Dog may exhibit undesirable behavior based out of fear, such as hiding, urinating, or freezing in submission. Dog can become overly dominant or submissive or quite possibly lash out with aggression on anyone they come in contact with.

Proper Training

Use rewards to train a dog to behave from an early age. Training includes teaching basic commands, coming back when called, and going to the toilet in the right place.

Good training makes a dog easier to control. It enhances their quality of life and your relationship with them. Encourage good behavior by providing rewards such a dog treat or petting them. Never shout at or punish a dog. Dogs tend to behave badly when scared or suffering. Be consistent in the way you, your family, and friends react to your dog.

Avoid things that scare your dog. Provide them constant access to a safe hiding place where they can escape when they feel afraid.

Dog Exercise and Play

Dogs need regular exercise and plenty of opportunities to walk and run. Take them out at least once per day. That will keep them fit, active, and stimulated.

Dogs are playful and sociable animals. They can become distressed or bored with little to do. They can also become destructive when bored. Give a dog safe toys. Recommended are indestructible dog toys. While they cost much more, your dog won’t destroy them quickly. The strongest for medium to large dogs include Goughnuts MaXX and Buster, West Paw Jive and Tux, Orbee-Tuff Squeak, and Nero Ball Ultra.

Dogs should have regular opportunities to play with people and other dogs who are friendly. If your life is too busy to make time for exercise, hire a dog walker.

Stay Vigilant for Problems

Always pay close attention to a dog. If their behavior changes or they show signs of stress or fear they could be distressed, bored, ill, or injured. Examples of problems include excessive panting, licking lips, weird posture, hiding, cowering, unusual aggression, and other anti-social behavior. If you notice a change, ask a vet for advice.