How to Take Care of Dogs
Having a dog for a pet is very fun and a joy to have for sure but if you want your new best friend to tag along for a long time you would need to be quite responsible. Proper dog care includes many aspects, such as:
Vaccinations
Puppies need frequent vaccinations starting as early as 6 weeks to protect them from disease, especially if they are often in settings with other dogs. In fact, many dog parks and daycares require vaccination for entry. Flee control and deworming can also be discussed with your veterinarian, but this will only be as needed.
Exercise
Whether it’s going to a dog park, playing fetch, or even just going for a walk, dogs need about 1-2 hours of exercise each day. However, this may vary depending on the breed and age of your dog. Fenced-in yards are a fantastic choice for allowing your dog to get the necessary amount of exercise, but supervision and interaction are still important!
Grooming
Regular grooming helps your dog to look and feel their best while also giving you a chance to check for abnormalities like lumps, bumps, ticks, and matted fur. Standard grooming includes cutting and brushing hair, clipping nails, giving baths, and taking care of oral hygiene. Brushing your dog's teeth with a dog-specific brush is essential to remove plaque, improve breath, and prevent cavities. You can also use dental chews, sticks, or bones.
Diet
High-quality food can help make your dog’s skin and coat healthier, strengthen their immune system, and improve their overall well-being. You can research the best kind of food for your dog based on their breed, size, age, and personal preferences. Certain regular foods can also be beneficial in moderation, such as peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or unseasoned chicken. However, make sure to consult your veterinarian or another reliable source before feeding your dog something not made specifically for them.
Spaying and Neutering
Spaying or neutering is an important part of responsible canine care and can help with overpopulation and reduce the number of animals in shelters, but these are not the only benefits. Neutering has been shown to improve behavioral issues, while spaying can decrease your dog’s chances of getting cancer.
Veterinarian Visits
Regular veterinarian visits are important to your dog's health regardless of their perceived condition. It is recommended that every dog visit the vet annually, however, puppies or senior dogs may require more attention. It may also be necessary to take your dog to the vet when their health or well-being is potentially in danger. In these situations, it’s always better to be on the safe side and at least call your vet to consult them on whether you should take your dog to the hospital.
Overall, having a dog as a pet brings immense joy and companionship, but it also comes with a significant level of responsibility. Ensuring your dog stays healthy and happy requires commitment to proper care. By prioritizing your dogs care you’re not just giving your dog the best possible life-you’re also building a lasting bond that will bring joy to both you and your pet for years to come.
Written by Christine Josey
Edited by Alayna Atkinson and Anusha Shringi
