Are you thinking about bringing a dog into your home? Is a dog currently living in your family room? In either case, here are some great ideas to make your life, and your dog’s, easier. You are sure to come across some advice that will make dog ownership a delight well into the future.

There are many pleasures derived from dog ownership, but it is also a serious financial commitment. Food, supplies and vet bills can add up to $1,000 or more per year. A sick dog could cost you tens of thousands! Look into doggie health insurance!

Hugs are great, but steer clear of kisses. Dog kissing may be adorable, but dogs have awfully dirty mouths. They eat garbage or poop and even sniff other dog’s butts. It is an old wives’ tale that dogs have cleaner months than humans. It simply is not true.

If your dog behaves properly, be sure it is praised and given affection. After all, your goal is for your dog to know when it is doing something good. This also shows the dog that good behavior will earn praise.

Don’t purchase cheap dog food. Less expensive brands of dog food often contain artificial coloring, additives, preservatives and so on that can be very bad for your dog. Try using animal advocacy groups or consumer awareness to get a list of great dog foods that have high professional recommendations. Your dog will appreciate your research.

Daily brushing brings great rewards – much more than just a reduction in shedding. Your dog’s coat will be super shiny and beautiful if you brush them every day. The reason for this is that brushing distributes a dog’s oils from its skin so it looks soft and shiny.

When making a dog food selection, the cheap stuff is rarely the best choice. It will benefit your dog greatly if he is fed food that is nutritious and high in quality. While this could mean paying more for higher-end brands, your dog’s proper health will be guaranteed through eating healthfully.

Make sure your dog knows how to properly walk while it’s leashed. They should walk by your side, instead of behind or in front of you, and they must respond to “heel.” If your pet is leash trained, it’ll be safer, and you’ll enjoy walks more as well. Not having to hold the leash tightly will make going for walks easier.

Your dog should not be left outside all the time. Dogs need companionship and interaction with their owners. When your dog is the only one you have, leaving him alone will make him sad. Also, any extreme weather can cause problems for your dog.

If you’re the owner of a lone, lonely dog, you should consider getting a second pooch. Dogs are usually in packs by nature and this means they enjoy being around one another. Find another dog that has the same energy levels and temperament and you’ll be sure to find something your dog will love!

Ensure that your dog will come back after being lost by having some type of identification tag. Purchase a dog tag so your dog has identification. Include your dog’s name and your phone number on the tag. Having your vet equip your dog with a micro-chip is a good idea.

If your dog has an accident indoors, be certain you get rid of any sign of it. Utilize professional grade cleaners and odor removers as well. If any scent remains, the dog might soil the area over and over.

When you select food for your dog, do so with care. Always consider your dog’s age, health status and size when selecting the brand and formula you want to feed your dog. Although the temptation to feed your dog scraps off the table, this is not the most healthy diet for your dog.

Did you know that vitamins could actually be harmful to your dog? Avoid giving your dog vitamins if he has a balanced diet. Too much of certain vitamins could cause damage to the blood vessels, bones and joints. Speak to the vet before you give your dog any vitamins.

The temperature of your dog’s nose is not a good indicator of its health. A cold and wet nose may be a healthy one. Instead, monitor your dog’s health through energy levels, demeanor, and appetite. These attributes will give you better cues into how your dog feels. A rectal thermometer can be used on the dog to do a temperature check.

Crate training a puppy is a great idea if no one is available during the day to watch him. You can prevent unwanted accidents and damage to your belongings by using an appropriate crate.

Talk to your vet to learn which food is right for your dog. Some dogs may need a special diet if they have medical conditions. Feeding the right food could help alleviate his symptoms, or prevent things from getting worse. Your vet will be able to tell you what the best food is.

Begin young when setting rule for your dog. Something that is cute as a puppy won’t be as cute when he or she gets bigger. It’s critical to stop bad habits right away. If you watch your dog and they are doing something they should not know, stop it right away. This will help you to train your dog effectively.

A well exercised dog will always be happier than a bored one. In most cases, behavior issues stem from not enough stimulation. When dogs become bored they can begin displaying destructive behavior. Keep in mind that tired dogs are happy dogs. Be certain to give the dog enough to ensure good behavior.

Make good use of the tips you just read. If this isn’t the case, go over the advice in the article one last time. You will feel better when you know how to solve any issues you may face. Use the techniques every day to have the best relationship possible with your dog.