Your dog is going to be your best friend. You’re going to bond with them and love them like you would any other member of your family. There is so much to do with them, and you’re going to enjoy every moment of being a dog parent, other than when they’re running around with an unidentified object in their mouth, and you have to chase after them. Even then, it can be a lot of fun! But, to have a dog is a big responsibility, and they are going to need a lot from you in order for you to be able to take the best care of them possible. If you don’t know the kind of things that we are talking about, then it’s a good thing you have come across this article.
Down below, we are going to be looking at some of the steps that you’re going to have to take if you want to take great care of your dog. Keep reading if you want to find out more, and become the best dog owner ever!
Make Sure They Get Their Exercise
One of the most important things that you have to know about owning a dog is that they need their exercise, or they aren’t going to be healthy. Depending on what breed of dog you have and how big they are, the amount of exercise is going to vary. In fact, if you aren’t one for going on walks or runs, then there is a strong likelihood that you’re going to end up doing more exercise than you have done for a while. For example, if you have a German Shepherd, then they are going to need a minimum of two hours of exercise every single day. However, if you have a smaller dog like a Papillon, 30 minutes to an hour is going to be more than sufficient.
You also have to take into account your dog. Some dogs don’t like exercise in the same way that others do, and if this is the case, then you can’t force them to go on long walks. Let them tell you how much they need because they know better than you do. What we mean is, if you see them panting and looking like they can’t go on with the walk or their exercise, don’t force them, no matter what the internet suggests about amount of exercise.
Change Their Food If Necessary
Something else that you’re going to have to consider is the food that they are eating. Much like humans, dogs can have sensitive stomachs, meaning that you’ve got to ensure they have the right kind of food. Watch out for things such as sickness, diarrhea, spitting out their food if they don’t like it, and other things like this. You also want to watch your dog for reactions to their food so that you know if you’ve got one that they like. For example, if you notice that they aren’t eating for a couple of days, and then they eat the food, but they don’t otherwise seem sick, then you might want to consider trying out a new kind. Or, if you notice that there are any adverse reactions to the food you are currently feeding them.
Your dog getting the right nutrition is important to help them stay healthy, do you’ve got to do your research into the best food, and then find one that they like. If you want them to be strong and healthy, you’ve got to keep your eye on things like this.
Comfort When They Sleep
There are a few options when it comes to bedtime, and you’re going to have to decide which suits you and your dog the best. The first option is that they can sleep in your bed if you are happy to share with them. Do be aware that if you choose this option, they’re not likely to want to sleep anywhere else at any point, so it’s worth being sure about your decision. If you don’t want them to sleep in your bed with you, then you’ve got a few more options to consider, you’ve just got to make sure that whatever you choose is comfortable for them.
You can buy them a cage to sleep in at night if you think this is best. This is a good choice if you want to know that your dog is safe at all times, seeing as they can’t wander around and get themselves hurt or anything like this. They also aren’t going to be able to destroy anything like your furniture while they’re in here either. It’s not cruel, and sometimes it can even be for their own good, so it’s something to consider. Or, if you don’t like the idea of having them in a cage overnight, then you should think about getting a dog bed for them to lay on. There are plenty of different options around, so it’s not like you’re going to be strapped for choice.
Toys, Toys And More Toys
Dogs love to play, and even when you don’t have time to play with them, they are more than happy to entertain themselves, which means you’ve got to have plenty of toys. We’re not saying that you have to purchase 100 toys for your furry friend, but enough that they have options to choose from. Try to ensure that you get some squeaky ones, some silent ones, and different textures are going to be a good idea as well. You never know what your dog is going to like best, and they’re probably going to choose a favorite just like kids.
When it comes to toys, just keep an eye out for any that get lost. If you can’t find them, ask your dog, check behind the backs of sofas as this is a common place for them to drop, as well as under tables and things. If your dog loses their favorite toy, it can be quite difficult for them, so do keep an eye on this where you can.
It’s Better Safe Than Sorry
The rule that you should always go with when it comes to the health of your dog is that it’s better safe than sorry. You know this is true, and if you’re ever in doubt about whether or not your dog needs to see a vet, then call them and ask them what they think. This should give you a more accurate idea of whether your dog needs medical attention or not, and if they do, then you can get them seen as soon as possible.
It might be the case that you simply take your dog to the vet one day, and they find an issue. But don’t worry because some things have a simple fix or at least a way to make them more comfortable such as a dog back brace. Keep in mind that there are a number of things that could go wrong with dogs, the same as with humans, so if you’re ever concerned, then take them to get checked out.
Brush Them Once Every Couple Of Days
The more you let their coat build-up, the heavier it is going to be for them. We know that some dogs are supposed to have big coats, but they shed a lot, and a large portion of the excess hair gets trapped in the coat and doesn’t come out. This can lead to matting, and you don’t want this. To avoid this, simply give your dog a brush every couple of days. It’s not exactly a taxing job, so it shouldn’t take you too long, but it helps to protect their coat, keeps them looking shiny, and most dogs love the attention. You can buy special pet brushes that have soft bristles so that you don’t hurt your dog.
Remember to stay gentle, while still ensuring to get out any knots and tangles that you find. Talk to your dog while you are doing this to keep them calm and let them know what you are doing. This will be good for them, and when you are going to brush certain areas like their ears, they’ll know what you’re going to do.
Humans And Other Dogs
You also want to do your best to ensure that they are trained around other humans and dogs. Now, some dogs just don’t like others, and some don’t like humans, or they don’t like either. Other dogs like everyone, no matter whether you’re a dog, cat, or human and you can’t force them into liking if they don’t. However, you can train them so that they at least don’t react if they aren’t the biggest fan of others. If you don’t know how to do this, then there are plenty of trainers who can help you here. Get your dog into training, and they will be social in no time.
We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the ways that you can take the best care of your dog. Good luck, and we hope that you guys are very happy together.
