Looking After A Pet In Its Senior Years

Content author-Allen Langley

No two dogs are alike, not only in looks, but in personality. While my dog may be lazy and loving, your dog may be excitable and temperamental. Regardless, there are a few basic tenets of ownership you absolutely need to know. The following article provides a great deal of advice from dog owners who have experienced it all.

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.

Beware of flea treatments for your dog. Some medicines can put your children in harms way. Talk to the vet to determine if there are other options for your dog.

Always neuter or spay your pet. Research has shown this simple procedure can lessen cancer risks and can give your dog a longer lifespan. Also, dogs that get fixed won't feel the need to wander away so that may mean that they won't get into accidents like getting hit by a vehicle.

Pick and choose when you are going to groom your dog. You do not want to attempt grooming when your pet is in a particularly frisky mood, because the process will not go well. Instead, do so only when your dog is calm and tired, like after you have taken him for an especially long walk.

Unless you're okay with your dog playing with your shoes and other things around your home, buy him some toys. He will enjoy having things of his own, particularly if they are interactive like pull-toys you can use together. Also buy him things he can use to occupy himself and stay out of trouble!

Never leave your dog home alone for more than a few hours each day. For example, if you are planning on being away from home for a few days, you should find a place to house them where they can get regular care. Dogs can become anxious when left alone for extended times, so consider their feelings and provide them with the care that they need.

If your vet prescribes medication, always carefully follow the provided instructions. chicken free fish based dog food may not be fond of the treatment or medication, but it's for its health. 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.

Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise. Your dog has to be worked out to stay happy and healthy. Throw https://www.renaissancecapital.com/IPO-Center/News/73741/Big-dog-Pet-care-retailer-Petco-files-for-an-estimated-$800-million-IPO around the park with your dog and play fetch. Besides just getting some exercise, you'll be creating a bond between you and your dog.

Be prepared for natural disasters that also impact your dog. Have an emergency supply of water and food for him and know in advance if your local shelter for people will allow pets inside. Too many pets are injured or lost following storms, floods and other situations that cause chaos in a community.

When training your dog, consistency is everything. You must be consistent at all times. If your dog is not allowed to jump on people as they walk in, don't allow your dog to do it even if a person says they don't mind being jumped on. You should also make sure that everyone that's around your dog understands your rules and are consistent with them.

Think about the changes your life will undergo, such as vacation and special events, before choosing to bring a dog into your life. Many people romanticize having a dog, but the reality involves consistency, responsibility and commitment.

If your dog suffers from constipation or diarrhea, you can try feeding the pet canned pumpkin. This is not same as pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin contains fiber which helps with constipation. In addition, it also absorbs water which helps with diarrhea. Don't give the dog much, just a teaspoon or two with the dog's regular meal.

Always try to do your training in an area where the dog has some distractions around them. Rarely are you going to be in a situation where you need your dog to obey and it is completely quiet. It is best for you to practice your training with the television on, kids running wild and maybe some music playing.

What Can I Feed My Dog Instead Of Dog Food

When you're beginning training, experiment with various reward systems. You should try to find out what drives your dog to do well. If food is the motivator, use hot dog pieces as a reward. If he likes to play, engage him in a game when he successfully performs the action you are looking for. Some dogs will consider petting as a reward.

Be careful when choosing what kind of food to feed your dog. Some dog foods contain dyes and fillers that are simply not healthy for them. When choosing a food, look on the label for words like "AAFCO feeding studies" and "feeding tests". These foods have gone through feeding trials and have been proven to be healthy.

If you have younger children in your home, a dog crate or dog area in your house may be a good idea. With younger children running around all day, your dog may become stressed out and want a safe place to go relax. A crate can provide your dog with a dog only area where it can take a break from a hectic day.

When you bring a new dog home, the first thing you should do is make sure they'll always be able to get back to you. Invest in a safe collar and a tag that contains both your name and phone number. Most lost dogs don't make it home, but with a good tag, you can be sure yours will.

Dogs are the most wonderful pets around, and most people know that. These social creatures deserve our affection. And if you own one, he deserves your best. Use the information here to make sure that you are doing all you can in order to give your dog a truly happy life.