What Your Dog Needs - Part 1

There are a few things you need to know about dog care if your dog is going to have a good chance of living a long and healthy life. Your dog doesn't need as much care as a baby or small child, but he or she does need your attention and regular care.

Depending on the dog breed you own, your dog might require more attention than other breeds. But basically, every breed enjoys human company and does not require an enormous amount of time to take care of their basic needs.

Identity Tag and Vaccinations

When you first bring your new dog or puppy home, get an identity tag for him or her. If your dog has a tag with your phone number on it, you will be much more likely to get your dog back if it should ever get lost.

Check what vaccinations your local laws require take your dog to the veterinarian for shots and health check-ups on a regular basis. Seriously consider getting the Parvo vaccination if you have a puppy or older dog. Parvo seems to be under control sometimes and then suddenly there is an outbreak. Better to be safe and get the shot.

Dog Food and Fresh Water
Fresh water is extremely important for your dog, especially when it is hot. Be sure your dog has water available at all times.

Your dog also needs a healthy diet. No sugar, chocolate, grapes, or any other food item that is dangerous to a dog's health. Instead feed him or her a healthy dog food that your vet recommends.

Dog Grooming - Fur, Nails, Teeth, Ears

Grooming is important for dogs. You must bathe your dogs once a month and keep their coats brushed and free from ticks and fleas. A dog’s teeth are very important and care is required to keep them healthy.

Your dog’s ears and eyes must also be cleaned often and watched for diseases. You may also need to clip your dog’s nails on a regular basis. If you don't have time, or would rather not, take him or her to the groomer and let them clip the dog's fur and trim their nails. Your vet can clean your dog's teeth and ears.

Regular Daily Exercise

Everyone needs to exercise every day, and dogs need exercise, too. Exercise helps your dog calm down, be more docile, and get along better with the family and other animals.

Generally, the bigger the dog the more exercise it will need. Different dog breeds have different needs. Consider the border collie and the chihuahua. Our border collie needs a good run outside several times a day, whereas our chihuahua gets all the exercise he needs running through the house. So when choosing a dog, get a breed that does not require more exercise than you have time to provide.
Not only is regular exercise good for your dog’s health, but it also gives him the opportunity to be with you. Dogs crave company and like to be with their ‘pack’ as much as possible.

When walking your dog there are several things to remember. First, always use a leash. Second, keep the dog even with you. If you let the dog pull ahead of you, he is learning that he is the pack leader. Third, if you live in an area that requires you to clean up after your dog, take along a little shovel and a bag.

Get Your Dog Altered

Please get your dog spayed or neutered. One female dog in just four generations can have thousands of descendants. The United States puts millions of dogs to death each year. Please don't add to this. Not only will altering your dog stop unwanted puppies, it will also give your dog a longer, healthier life.

Dog Obedience Class

You may want to take your dog to obedience class. This will enable you to socialize your dog and give you more time together. Dogs are loyal companions and want nothing more than to be with their owner.

With a good diet, plenty of fresh water, some basic grooming, plenty of exercise, regular vet care, and plenty of attention from you, your dog will live a happy and healthy life.

Tags: Dog Care