How to Take Care of a Dog

By Jenny Harrington

How to Take Care of a Dog

Dog care has many aspects including obedience training, healthy food, pet supplies, shelter, and health care.

Bev Lloyd-Roberts/sxc.hu
By Jenny Harrington

OverviewCaring for a dog is not difficult, but it does take an investment of time just as any addition to the family does. Whether you have a new puppy or an older dog the basics of proper care are the same: In addition to food and water, dogs need training, exercise, veterinary care and, of course, love.Step 1Spay or neuter your dog as soon as he is old enough — between 2 and 4 months. This will prolong your dog’s life and health as well as cut down on the number of unwanted puppies born every year.Step 2Schedule regular veterinarian visits for your dog and keep his shots up to date. Vaccinations prevent rabies and other diseases and are required in most cities.Step 3Feed your dog a balanced dog food. Your vet can recommend a brand, but most middle- to high-grade dog foods are fine. Don’t rely on table scraps to feed your dog. Never give him bones that splinter easily, such as chicken bones. Keep fresh water available at all times.Step 4Give your dog something safe to chew on. Try rawhide bones or sturdy dog toys. He’ll be less likely to chew on your favorite pair of shoes.Step 5Train your dog in basic commands such as “sit,” “stay” and “off.” If you have trouble, attend an obedience class with your pet, no matter how old he is — old dogs can learn new tricks. Well-trained animals are less likely to bite or cause damage in your house.Step 6Exercise and play with your companion every day, rain or shine. Dogs need to run and play in order to be healthy and happy. Daily walks or visits to a dog run can supply enough exercise for most breeds.Step 7Always leash your dog when he’s outside a fenced area and make sure he wears a tag with your phone number. Consider having a microchip implanted just under your dog’s skin. If he gets lost, the chip can be scanned to retrieve your name and address.Step 8Pay attention to your dog. Dogs do well as pets because they are pack animals and will adopt humans as part of their family pack. That means your dog is a social animal and needs loving attention in order to thrive.skill2ingredientWater bowls
Dog food
Collar
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LeashingredientsWater bowlsingredientsDog foodingredientsCollaringredientsTagsingredientsLeashtipRemember to check your dog’s water often in the winter because it may freeze.tipsRemember to check your dog’s water often in the winter because it may freeze.warningNever hit a dog when training him. Use only positive reinforcement.

Outdoor dogs must have a doghouse or other shelter from the heat and cold.warningsNever hit a dog when training him. Use only positive reinforcement.warningsOutdoor dogs must have a doghouse or other shelter from the heat and cold.keyworddog puppy care health petkeywordsdogkeywordspuppykeywordscarekeywordshealthkeywordspetResourcesreferenceHumane Society

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