It is said that dogs are human’s most loyal friends, but owning a dog is not an easy task. From the first selection, feeding and training, to the daily cleaning and medical treatment, every part of the process requires your careful attention. If you’re getting ready to welcome a furry family member, then this dog ownership guide is one you can’t afford to miss!
Preparing for new members
Owning a dog is not something you do on a whim. When you decide to own a dog it mean that you are going to be responsible for the dog’s food, clothing, shelter and other thing. This process will last for a dozen years or more. Before you decide to get a dog, please prepare yourself for it.
- Owning a dog will cost you certain amount of money. Include food, toy, medical care and more. So you need to evaluate your financial situation. Check if you can afford the expenses of owning dog.
- Dog need people’s company and care. We need to walk, feed and clean them every day. You should make sure you have enough time and energy to take care of the dog.
- If there are other members of the family you need to ask their agreement. This will avoid any conflicts in the future.
- Have you thought of whether your living arrangementsre suitable, for a dog? Is there space, in your home for your furry friend to roam around?
Scientific Selection of Dogs, Suitability is the Best
There are varieties of dogs there, with various personalities and temperaments to consider when selecting a furry companion that suits your lifestyle and personal preferences.
If you like sports, you can choose an exercise dog. For example, Golden Retriever, Labrador, etc.
If you like quiet, you can choose small dogs. For example, Pug and Pekingese.
If you have children at home, you can choose a dog with a gentle character. For example, golden hair, teddy and so on.
Regulated feeding for healthy growth
The health of a dog is greatly influenced by what it eats so selecting the food and feeding it correctly are crucial, for keeping a dog healthy.
- Puppy period: you need to feed small amount of meals. Pay attention to balanced nutrition.
- Adult dog period: you can feed two meals a day. Add some fresh vegetables and fruits as appropriate.
- Older dogs: need to reduce the amount of food. Choose food that is easy to digest.
Choosing a right non-spill dog bowl is also one of the best tip for feed your dog.
Scientific training, happy life
Training a dog can help dog develop good habit. At the same time it can also improves the relationship between you and dog. Dog have the strongest learning ability at an early age. So it is best to start training from the puppy period. Remember to use positive reinforcement methods.
- Basic training: mainly basic commands, including sit, shake hands, lie down, etc.
- Behavioral training: mainly do behavioral correction. Including fixed-point urination and defecation, not barking, not picking up food and so on.
- Skill training: you can train your dog some simple skills according to your own interests. For example, shaking hands, catching Frisbees and so on.
Regular deworming to eliminate disease
Dogs are easy infested with parasites. That’s why we need to deworm them regularly. Deworming not only protect the dog’s health but also prevents certain zoonotic diseases. We can choose internal and external dewormers. Remember to administer the dewormer according to the weight and age of the dog.
Dogs are generally dewormed internally every month. Generally dewormed externally every two months.
Regular vaccinations to prevent disease
Getting vaccinated can effect prevent your dog from getting some infectious diseases. You need to take your dog to a regular pet hospital to get vaccinated. Follow the doctor’s orders for follow-up booster vaccinations.
- Puppyhood: Regular vaccinations are required according to the vaccination program.
- Adult dogs: need to be vaccinated once a year with a booster vaccination.
Regular cleaning to maintain hygiene
Dog need regular cleaning to keep them healthy. You need to bathe, brush clean your dog’s ears and teeth regularly.
- Bathing: Generally take bath once a month. The frequency of bathing can be increase when the weather is hot.
- Brushing: Brush your dog’s hair every day. Brushing can improve blood flow. It can also reduce hair fall.
- Clean ear: Clean the ear once a week. This can prevent ear disease.
- Clean teeth: Brush teeth once a day, this can prevent periodontal disease.
Seek timely medical attention to avoid accidents
Dogs will inevitably encounter some unforeseen situations in life . For example, illness, injury and so on. You need to take your dog to the pet hospital in time to avoid delay.
- Daily Watch: Watch your dog daily behavior during the day. If you find any unusual please send to the pet hospital in time.
- Regular checkup: Take your dog to the pet hospital for a physical examination once a year.
Love and care, building bonds
Dogs are emotional animal. It need your love and care. You need to play with your dog more often and build a deep relationship with it.
- Play with your dog: take at least half an hour out of your day to play with your dog. You can have some interaction games with your dog. For example, Frisbee, pulling toys, etc.
- Emotional communication: communicate with your dog more often. Pet it, hug it and let it feel your love.
- Patience training: In the process of training your dog keep patience. Do not yell or hit your dog.
Keep your promises and don’t give up
Dog ownership is a long-term commitment. You need to be responsible for the dog to the end. No matter whether the dog is healthy or sick, young or old. You must accompany it and never leave it.
Keeping a dog is a matter full of love and responsibility. I hope this dog guide can help you take better care of your dog and spend a happy time with it!
