Keep Your Pooch Happy With These Dog Care Tips.

Purchasing a dog is not an easy decision. In many ways, having a dog is very similar to having achild in your home. You will be responsible for feeding your dog a proper diet, grooming, cleaningup the messes it makes and taking it regularly to a doctor for vaccinations. How can you be surewhat exactly must be done? Read on to find out.

It can be quite costly to own a dog. Every dog requires good quality food, general supplies andmedical care; this can range in cost from $700 to $1000 per year. Emergency vet care is veryexpensive, in some cases thousands of dollars, so you might want to consider purchasing pet healthinsurance.

Since your dog cannot talk to you, you have to learn how to listen to your dog's non-verbal language.For instance, if your dog is hesitating, it is not a good idea to force him to approach a person oranother animal. You might cause your dog to bite someone or another dog. Always be on the look outfor non-verbal hints. If you see them, allow your dog to guide you in the next action you will take.

If the dog is doing something right, like sitting before he is leashed, lavish him with praise andaffection. This will show your dog that the behavior he is exhibiting is just what you are looking for.He'll learn that praise will come when he is good, too.

If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, he needs a dog house. Exposure to extreme weather forlong periods can cause health issues, particularly if the dog's feet get wet. Keep your dog safe bygiving him shelter.

Take your new dog to the vet. Make an appointment as early as possible. The veterinarian will makesure your pet is as healthy as you think he is and also talk to you about vaccinations. You should alsohave your dog neutered or spayed to cut down on pet overpopulation.

Even if you are looking for a dog that is a pure breed, always check the local pound. Lots of dogowners will leave their dog stranded whenever they don't want it anymore. Contact the pound inyour area to see what kinds of breeds they have at the time. It could mean you save a dog in theprocess!

If you have one dog that seems lonely or is by himself often, consider another dog. Dogs generallylike to have companions that are dogs. You need to match like-tempered dogs together.

You need to make sure if your female dog is not fixed and is in heat that she doesn't come intocontact with a male dog so she does not get pregnant. It is possible for a male to pick up her scentfrom miles away. She might instigate problems with fellow dogs, as well as getting pregnant with anunknown mate.

It is very important that you put a lot of thought into whether or not you're ready to add a dog toyour family. There is a lot that comes with dog ownership and one can quickly fall for the face of anadorable puppy. Take a little bit of time and think over all aspects of having a pet so you're sure thatyou're able to manage it.

When you are dog training, use the technique of positive reinforcement. Do not hit your dog as thiswill only make him fear you. Treating your dog humanely provides better results and is better for

your dog long term. Treat your friend kindly when training to see better results.

Be careful about what you feed your dog. A high-calorie diet is okay in the early stages of a dog'slife. As your dog ages, his caloric intake should be reduced to avoid obesity.

If you want a well disciplined dog, consider sending the pet to a training program. You will have abetter life, and so will your dog, if you train it well and teach it to obey the commands you give it.Start training your puppy at a young age and expect to spend more time on training if you aregetting an older dog.

If you've just brought home a new puppy, you need to designate a sleeping area for him. A crate is agreat place to put your dog in the first few months. If, however, you want your dog to sleep with you,just make sure you are okay with this happening every night for the entire course of your pet's life.

You need to use these tips to raise a healthy and happy dog. Take the time to do more research onhow to care for your dog and on any specific issues you are encountering. Your dog will be gratefulfor your care and attention as you apply your new knowledge.

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