Created by-Carr Schmidt

Nothing beats a dog in terms of the loyalty and love that can be received. For owners who live on their own with their canine companion or for large households who consider a dog part of the family, dog ownership comes with plenty of rewards. If you'd like to better care for a dog, be sure to use these tips.

Give your dog hugs, but don't kiss him. Dog kisses may be seen as cute, but their mouths aren't all that clean. Remember that dogs use their tongues to clean themselves, and they like to eat garbage and drink out of the toilet. It's an old wives' tale that a dog has a very clean mouth. It simply is not true.

Just like people need regular yearly physicals, dogs need the same thing. why not find out more can't talk, so how do you know he has arthritis, for example? An annual checkup can help catch such issues before they become a major problem.

If you are planning to take your dog on an extended car-ride, talk to your vet about motion sickness medication first. Avoid feeding him before setting out to prevent queasiness and vomiting and make sure you buy him bottled water if you are traveling to any destination that is known to have issues with water quality.





When you are trying to teach your dog new tricks, you should always be patient. Different dogs will learn things differently. If your dog isn't picking up a new trick right away, give him time. You could also try changing your teaching method. Your dog may respond better to a different approach.

Don't forget about your dog when writing your will. Many pets end up being fought over or neglected completely because specific instructions were not left regarding their care. Include a clause that clearly directs your loved ones on what to do with your dog so that he's well taken care of.

Your dog needs to exercise regularly. Like humans, dogs must exercise to burn calories, remain healthy, and help their minds stay sharp. Exercising also helps them avoid boredom that can cause destructive behaviors. Keeping your dog active can curb chewing, biting, digging, and chasing urges. It can even help them avoid depression.

The pads of your dog's feet can become dry and cracked, so make sure that you moisturize them regularly. Ask your veterinarian for advice on which product to use. Avoid using moisturizers that are intended for humans, because they can make the pads too soft and your dog may get hurt.

If your dog accidentally goes to the bathroom inside, remove every trace of it. Utilize professional grade cleaners and odor removers as well. If any scent remains from this accident, you may find that your dog relieves itself in the same place numerous times.

Keep your dog safe from dangerous chemicals. Similar to kids, cleaning chemicals and any car maintenance substances are harmful to them. These substances are poisonous, so if a dog gets any on them or ingests any, they could get burned, become very sick, or die. Store your hazardous chemicals in a place that your dog can't get to, or keep them in a closed area using a child-proof lock.

If your dog is ruining your home while you are gone, it is probably suffering from anxiety. This issue is very common in young puppies, especially if they are still getting used to being home alone. You should find some toys your dog can play with and let your dog have a shirt or a blanket that smells like you.

Instruct your dog clearly about how to walk with a leash. cute puppies should stay by your side, not in front of or behind you, and respond to the command "heel". This will keep him safe, and it'll make walks more enjoyable. If you are using a loose leash, you help your dog to realize this is the best way to go about it.

If you have a smaller breed dog, make sure everyone who touches him knows the proper way to hold him. Small dogs can be easily injured by inappropriate handling and many owners find this out the hard way. Gently lift at the belly from under his front legs and secure him with both hands.

Puppies are cute and cuddly, but remember that puppies eventually grow into dogs, and rather quickly. Make sure that you put a lot of thought in your decision to get a dog. Taking a dog into your home is a long-term commitment and comes with certain costs and responsibilities, but is ultimately rewarding.

If you have a smaller breed dog, make sure everyone who touches him knows the proper way to hold him. Small dogs can be easily injured by inappropriate handling and many owners find this out the hard way. Gently lift at the belly from under his front legs and secure him with both hands.

Give your dog love, just as you would with a child. Dogs are intended to live in groups, and in those settings they tend to be affectionate with one another throughout each day. To give your dog what it needs you must show it love through petting and snuggling. This will only strenghthen the bond that you will have through the years.

Make sure your dog does not have access to any dangerous products. You should keep all your cleaning products on a high shelve and avoid using poison if you are dealing with pest. Check your garage too and put your automotive products on high shelves too. Do not hesitate to keep your dog out of certain rooms if some items are dangerous.

If your dogs breath smells extremely bad, it is important to set up a vet visit to make sure this is not coming from some type of mouth problem. Such problems could be tooth decay or an infection. If untreated, more problems could arise causing further expenses down the road.

All of the expert advice contained above should have you ready to really take good care of your dog. That said, focus on love and everything else will fall into place. As long as you continue to adore your four-legged friend, and mistakes you make will be forgotten quickly and won't be so harmful.