Doing The Best You Can For Your Dog

Dogs are great companions since they're good company and always loyal. That doesn't mean that's how they are, instantly. They need instruction in proper behavior, and they must be cared for properly. The following article will make you more educated on dogs.

Be careful with canine flea treatments. Lots of treatments contain things that can be harmful to kids. Ask your vet about alternative treatments that are more family-friendly, and be sure to keep small children away during applications.

Let your lifestyle determine what breed of dog you should bring into your home. For instance, if you jog, a toy poodle may not be as great a choice as a dog that is able to run with you. If you like to stay at home, perhaps you would like a small dog. Steer clear of a breed mismatch if you want to be a happy dog owner.

Be sure to have your dog spayed or neutered. Research has proven that this can help your dog live longer and also specifically help prevent cancer. 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.

Ask your vet the amount of food your dog needs daily. The amounts on the label might not apply in your dog's situation. Check with you vet to find out about the feeding guidelines for your particular dog.

Your daily lifestyle should help guide your choice of dog breed. If you love to run, seek out a pooch that will love to run alongside you. On the other hand, a cuddly small dog may be perfect for those who enjoy a quiet evening reading on the couch. You should find a dog that fits well with your personality.

Be sure to praise your dog thoroughly any time it behaves correctly, such as sitting when it is time to put their leash on. He needs to understand that this is the right thing to do. This will teach the dog that when they do what you wish, they'll get praised.

Trim hair around a dog's paws so that hair mats don't form. Straighten the hair with a comb slightly before you do any trimming. You can always use a dog groomer if you find the process difficult.

dog doors for sliding glass doors Train your dog how to properly walk when on a leash. He should know the "heel" command, stay close to you and not veer far ahead or drag behind. Following this tip can make walking safer for your pet, and it can also make walks more enjoyable for both of you. Regardless of how you intend to take your walks, this is a good command for your dog to know.

Know that an animal doesn't need too many people telling it what to do when it's being trained. Your dog might become confused by different methods, different vocal commands and different ways of offering praise or punishment. You should have one person take charge of the training procedure, and then ask everyone else to follow their lead once the dog has learned a few simple commands. This allows for consistency that is least likely to confuse your pet.

You might be tempted to share your food with your dog. Certain foods are fine, but other are not very good for dogs. Chocolate, caffeine, and grapes are some examples of food that should not be given to dogs. Foods like these can cause huge medical problems.

It should be easy to care for your dog with the advice found above. You just need to be as loving and patient as possible with your pet. Try to learn as much as you can, and enjoy having a dog around.