Dogs thrive on being happy and knowing they are in your good graces, so be sure to do what you can to return the favor. Let’s take a look at dog care right now.
Dog Care For All Stages Of Your Dog’s Life
Dogs can give us a lot of good things that no other kind of pet can, but if we want to take good care of them, then it is very important that we do what we can to stay informed. Quality dog care for your dog starts early in its life and should continue for as long as it is alive. As your dog grows, though, its needs will change and it is important that you stay aware of this and do what you can to keep your dog healthy and happy.
A healthy, happy dog is one that is going to give you very few problems and this is good for both your home and the dog, too. Dogs thrive on being happy and knowing they are in your good graces, so be sure to do what you can to return the favor. Let’s take a closer look at dog care right now. Picking up a few tips is always a good idea.
Dog Care for a Puppy Starts Early and Many Needs Should Be Met
It all starts with the puppy stage. When you get a new puppy from a breeder, they have hopefully already worked with it to make sure it got a good start in life. This will usually mean petting the pups early and getting them used to a variety of situations, as well as getting their first shots, getting them started on solid food and, of course, lavishing them in love. Once you take your puppy home, then the real dog care can begin.
You will need a bed, bowls for food and water, safe toys, treats to start out training and a collar with a leash so it can get used to walking. Be sure to get them to your vet early on and also make sure you are socializing and training from early in their life. This is how you can make the most of the puppy phase as your dog grows into an adult.
For an Adult Dog There Are Still Many Dog Care Needs to Consider
Once adulthood arrives, generally between the first and second year of a dog’s life, you will notice that they tend to be calmer, but will still have plenty of energy. You should be exercising them regularly and making sure that they are seeing a vet for checkups and have all their vaccinations. You will want to continue their training and get them as obedient as possible because this helps you make sure they are safe in any kind of social situation.
You want to keep their nails trimmed as needed, get them groomed and do what you can to keep fleas and ticks off of them. Be sure your dog knows all the house rules, gets played with and has interesting things to do. Of course, don’t forget to be generous with the love, too.
Remember That Dog Care Needs Shift as Your Dog Reaches Its Senior Years
The senior years start for larger breeds around the time they reach age 7. Your dog may start to grow grey around the muzzle and it may also have some health issues that need to be taken care of. Just make sure that any signs of pain are dealt with by visiting the vet. Your dog will still need to stay active, but it may tire a bit more easily.
By now, training should be complete, but more training can keep your dog’s mind active and spirits high. Let them rest, but encourage them to stay social. If they have dental problems you may need to switch to softer food. Over all, the senior years can and should be a pleasant stage of life for your dog.
The Importance of Staying Educated in the Latest Dog Care Knowledge
Remember that humans are not dogs and our understanding of the canine species is always changing. We will continue to learn new things about dog behavior, nutrition and health issues that you should try to stay abreast of. Your dog really only has you in this world because dogs do not have political rights. That means you are the one who has to take care of him or her and hopefully give them an amazing life.
If you do take the time to stay educated then you, too, will get more out of living with your dog. Our dogs do so much for us over the course of their lives and we owe it to them to really give back when we can.