Perfection is in the eye of the beholder. Whether or not you’ve made mistakes with your dog doesn’t matter as long as you have always provided them with love. That said, read on to find out more about tips and tricks regarding your dog and how to avoid some mistakes others have made.
Since dogs cannot talk, you need to learn your dog’s cues. If they seem hesitant upon meeting up with other dogs or people, don’t force interaction. That could lead to another person or dog being bitten. Take heed of these non-verbal cues, and act accordingly.
When giving your dog a bath, make sure that you only put on shampoo that is intended for canines. Using lukewarm water, get the entire body wet and then begin applying the shampoo to their face, working your way down their body. Wait a few minutes and then take a washcloth and wipe off the suds from your pet’s face. Wash off the rest of the shampoo as well.
Avoid giving your dog scraps from your table. This will make your dog beg all of the time and also will make it not want to eat its regular food as much. Scraps can be terrible for his diet and lead to obesity and other health problems. Train your dog to remain in another room while the family eats so no one is tempted to slip something to him under the table.
Think about your own lifestyle when considering the dog breed you want. If you are a hunter for example, perhaps a retriever is the dog for you. Also, if you like to stay at home, find small dogs that prefer sitting on laps and being stroked. You should find a dog that fits well with your personality.
If you are struggling to get your pet to behave during a grooming session, apply positive reinforcement. With your words and your tone, praise your dog for anything little thing that he or she does well during the time you are working with him. Give him a treat when you are finished, so he begins to associate grooming with something good. You should turn your dog’s behavior around in no time!
If your dog is a digger, make sure to protect him and your garden. Some plants are poisonous to dogs, not to mention the damage those paws can do to your prized flowers and produce. Put up an appropriately sized fence to keep him out or consider using an electric one.
If your dog does something that you do not like, try to avoid just saying no. To your dog, no doesn’t really explain what you want your pup to do. Instead of saying no if your dog is jumping, try to get your dog to sit or lay down. By doing this, you provide your dog with an instruction of what to do.
Make sure your dog knows how to properly walk while it’s leashed. To properly walk your dog, he must remain directly at your side instead of behind or in front of you. This ensures his safety and will make going for walks more enjoyable for you. Understanding that command is great, even if you choose to still walk with a loose leash periodically.
If your pup seems lonely by itself, consider getting another dog. Dogs are usually in packs by nature and this means they enjoy being around one another. Ensure you carefully select your dog’s match based on behavior and energy levels. By doing this, both of your dogs will be happy.
Perfect advice is impossible to find. That said, what you have read here is a great start to your dog education. While your dog and your situation differ from those of the authors, the general knowledge you have gained is priceless. Make use of what you have learned today to make for a better tomorrow.
