Dogs are such wonderful creatures. They are adorable, brilliant, and loyal, making them the “man’s best friend.” They are the most common pets in every household. Taking good care of them might not be an easy task. There are things that we need to use, such as a leash and a food bowl. Other than those, some dog lovers want to buy accessories to make their dogs look cuter and more beautiful, and you can find the best ones when you visit here.
When you are starting to become a fur parent, whether to Jack Russell Terriers or German Shorthaired Pointers (or perhaps you already are one); you probably have questions about how to care for them properly. You might have thought some things were okay, but it was not the best for your pets.
So, what do you need to know when caring for a dog? Here are the best tips for taking care of your dogs.
Take your pet to the vet at least once a year
Our dogs are like us. They also need to be checked by doctors to ensure they are healthy. Unlike us, when we feel unwell, we tend to show our emotions through our faces, whereas dogs can hide their pain. It would be tough to know if your dog has an underlying condition. You would think they are acting normal, and the disease is already severe when you realize it.
The vet will also recommend some food to keep your dog healthy and record everything to monitor your dog’s growth and recovery in case of sickness. Perhaps your pet might also benefit from nutritional supplements like those provided by Dr Marty Pets, which is something that you can ask the vet about.
Stay up to date on vaccines
Vaccines save lives. It protects against deadly diseases that your dogs can catch from others.
When we go to the park and play with the dogs, you might encounter some dogs and play with your pet. Dogs love to play, but this will give them close contact allowing them to get the sickness (if any) from the other pets.
Some people use dogs to keep the neighborhood safe, making them vulnerable to some illnesses. Keeping their vaccines updated gives them extra protection. You would have peace of mind knowing that your dog is protected from deadly diseases.
There are two types of vaccines for dogs: core vaccines and non-core. To put it simply, the core vaccines are essential, which are necessary to protect your dog from any health issues, especially if it’s endemic to your community. On the other hand, non-core vaccines are recommended for dogs who have a unique medical history. The non-core vaccines will depend on your dog’s condition.
Let them socialize
Socializing is critical, especially for puppies around seven weeks to four months of age. This is the best time for them to hone their senses about the outside environment.
Expose them to the outside world by going to the parks, meeting with your friends, and visiting other places. They will be able to practice their senses and become more friendly to humans, especially to children.
They love playing. So take them to the park at least once a week. Walk around and meet with other pet owners. This is also a perfect opportunity to give your dog some exercise, aside from the daily walk you give your pet. You can also do some exercises with your dog to keep you both in shape. Not only will you give your dog time to socialize, but it’ll also keep your fur baby healthy.
Of course, it’s just as important to exercise your dog’s brain as well as their body. Keeping them mentally stimulated with games like puzzles, obstacle courses, and toys (among other things) can help reinforce training, give them skills they can use in their everyday life, and even foster a stronger bond between the two of you. This post over on Canine Journal has some great suggestions of games you could introduce to keep their mind sharp and, crucially, occupied.
Groom your pet
Grooming is one of the most neglected activities for dogs. You might think that bathing them is enough. Although bathing is essential to keep them clean and safe from ticks, grooming has more to it than just bathing. When you groom your dog, its nails are trimmed to keep its posture in its best form. Dogs with longer nails tend to have lousy posture as they grow up. They need to use more force to maintain their stance if it’s too long.
Brushing their teeth is also part of grooming. Keeping their teeth clean keeps the bacteria away. Dental sticks can help, but proper brushing is still the most effective way. Grooming also removes ticks and fleas. These pesky little parasites are difficult to remove; worse, they make your dog’s skin and blood unhealthy. When you regularly groom your dog, you keep your fur baby safe from these parasites.
Keep Your Dog Healthy
Taking care of dogs may sound simple. However, you must dedicate a certain amount of time to care for them. You might think it’s challenging, but it’s rewarding as your dog will be healthier and have a longer lifespan.
So make sure to visit the vet, exercise, socialize, and groom your pet for a better life. You’ll be able to enjoy your life together by keeping your dog’s condition at its best.