Caring for your Dog

The benefits we can reap from having a pet can be thoroughly rewarding. Due to their unconditional love, friendship and loyalty dogs are rightly known as ‘Man’s best friend’. Dog lovers can return the favour by taking good care of their pet.

It might sound like a lot of work at first but caring for your dog, after the puppy days, is relatively easy and most of the chores can fit neatly into your daily routine.

This article talks about some of the essentials you need to know about dog care.

Collar and ID Tag

The first thing you want to do for a new dog is give it a proper dog collar and an ID tag with your name, address and contact information. This greatly increases the chances of having your dog returned to you if they get separated from you.

Laws

Check with your local animal shelter, veterinarian or humane society to find out what vaccinations your dog needs and be aware of dog fouling laws!

Spay or Neuter

If you are not planning on breeding dogs, help reduce the number of unwanted and stray dogs and improve the health of your pet by having them spay or neutered.

Training

Whether you purchase a book on dog training and teach them the basics at home or enrol in a class, having your dog learn basic commands will have a positive benefit on their behaviour and safety.

Register with a Vet

Regular visits to the vet will ensure your dog’s health and avoid future issues. If you need help locating a good veterinarian, check with a local shelter, breeder or get a recommendation from a fellow dog owner.

Your Dog at Home

Give your dog a proper place to live. Dogs love to go out for a run, but they need extended time out of the elements. Guard your dog from exposure to extreme weather. A big yard with a dog house is wonderful, but spending time with your dog inside and having a comfortable place to sleep, like a dog bed, is essential.

Dog Diets

Feed your dog a nutritionally balanced diet and make fresh water available to it at all times. Consult your vet for information on the type of dog food and amount to feed them in proportion to their size and age.

Dog Leads

A good, strong lead is a must-have item. There is a simple rule to follow; if the dog is off your property, the lead is on. Always make sure your dog is under your control both in and out of the home.

Exercising your Dog

Dogs of all sizes and breeds have one thing in common. They love running around and playing. A fit dog is a happy dog, so spend time together taking walks and with dog toys such as balls and games specially developed to keep them mentally alert and . Taking frequent daily exercise is good for both of you and helps build the bond between you and your dog.

Groom your Dog

A clean dog is a well cared for. Sure dogs like to play outdoors and run around, and there are few things better for their health, and your relationship, than to give their coats a regular dog shampoo bath, trim hair if necessary and groom them with brushes and combs. Dog clothes like coats, hats and boots are also increasingly popular, and can help shield your dog from extreme weather.

Dogs like Companionship

Any relationship is a two-way street. If you are loyal, patient and faithful to your dog, you will have yourself a companion that brings love and joy into your life.

These are just the basics of dog care and picking up a book about dogs is highly recommended. Choose a book that discusses various breeds, traits and care.