Welcome to Gaia! :: View User's Journal | Gaia Journals

There are all types of different dogs, and there are all types of different family situations. You have to know all about dogs before purchasing one. The following article can help you care for your new pup.
pet product shop
Hugs are great to give your pets, but kisses are not that great. Kisses from dogs are adorable, but they're a lot less cute when you realize how filthy your dog's mouth actually is. Dogs go through garbage cans, toilet bowls, and love smelling and licking specific body parts of some other dogs. It's an old wives' tale that a dog has a very clean mouth. This is not in the least bit true.

In the same way that a yearly physical is helpful to you, a yearly trip to the veterinarian is a must for your dog. Because your dog is unable to speak, you may not know for sure when your dog feels sick or has an injury. Annual checkups can catch these things before they become major problems.

Ask your vet how much food your dog should get every day. Sometimes the guidelines on pet food labels aren't correct, and following them could lead to obesity. Ask your vet for the proper amount based on your dog's needs.

Practice training your dog in your house or yard. Training in busy areas with lots of people around should be avoided. Too many people causes distractions, making it hard to train them.

Avoid letting your dog walk without a leash outside of your property, regardless of how well he behaves. Wild animals could get the dog's attention and lead him into dangerous places, or unanticipated circumstances could provoke conflicts with others. Understand that any damage your dog causes to other people and their pets is your responsibility, so you need to always use caution when off your property.

You need to trim your dog's nails regularly. Once the nails start to curl under, they can cause your dog a great deal of pain. Try trimming them with scissors you buy at the store. If you can't do it by yourself, you might want to try the groomers; it does not cost a lot.;

Make sure that you're giving your dog enough exercise. A dog needs to play and exercise on a regular basis so that it can be happy and healthy. Regardless of the activity you choose, whether it is a game of fetch or a walk around the neighborhood, both of you will benefit. You can get a lot of much needed exercise and build a stronger bond with your dog.

Do not buy cheap food items for your dog in an effort to save money. It is best to invest in quality dog food. You'll have to pay more, but you can be certain your dog gets the right vitamins and minerals from good sources.

Do not try to save money by choosing the cheapest dog food. High quality foods are always your best bet. Though this may cost you a bit more, you can rest easily knowing that the dog is eating properly.

Leaving a radio playing while you are gone will help your dog stay calm and may alleviate separation anxiety. The sound will help him feel more secure and not as alone. When it comes to treating your pet's anxiety, a little music could be exactly what the doctor ordered.

Dogs are a joy but also present some challenges. It's almost like having a job when you have to care for a pet. However, the suggestions in the preceding article will aid you in tackling many of the problems you will face. You will not worry any longer.