Tips on Taking Care of Dogs

It's always exciting to bring home your first barking bundle of joy. Naturally, you'll only want the best for your new pal. But like most pets, canines demand a certain level of responsibility and care, so it's good to know the basics. Below are some essential tips on how to take care of your four-legged friend.

  1. Feeding

    • Feeding can vary depending on the dog's size and age, but there are some basic facts that every dog owner should remember. On average, dogs should be fed twice a day. An ideal diet plan would be to keep a bowl of dry food readily available (although be careful not to overfeed), and feed them a can of food once daily. Also, pay attention not only to how much your dog is eating, but what. Just like humans, dogs demand proper nutrition in their diet to stay healthy. Feeding them scraps from the table may do more harm than good, so do your research to see what foods are good and bad for your dog. Some common foods that are harmful include raw eggs, chocolate, mushrooms, grapes, raw fish and yeast dough.

    Basic Care

    • A dog is a social creature, so make sure that wherever you house the pet, it isn't left alone. Bigger dogs need room to move and run, so owning a yard they can roam is ideal. But if not, make sure you exercise your dog regularly (about three times a day). Kennels are great for sleeping or when you leave the house for short periods of time. However, make sure your dog spends far more time out of the kennel than in it. Groom and bathe your dog regularly. Make sure he or she always has access to a fresh, full bowl of water. Dogs should be let out to relieve themselves 15 to 20 minutes after each meal, and at least once in the morning and evening. Also, have regular vet check-ups at least once a year to keep up to date with vaccinations.

    Companionship

    • There's nothing worse than neglecting your pet. Make sure when you adopt your furry friend that your own social life doesn't interfere with providing him the amount of attention needed to live a healthy, happy life. Play with your dog and take her for walks at least twice a day. But most importantly, be patient with your pup. Like children, even the best dogs will make mistakes or have accidents they can't always control. Love your dog by showing compassion, training them fairly and tending to their basic needs. Do that, and you'll make a friend for life.