{"id":1345,"date":"2020-03-13T10:37:07","date_gmt":"2020-03-13T09:37:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/petpedia.co\/blog\/?p=1345"},"modified":"2023-03-13T16:24:24","modified_gmt":"2023-03-13T16:24:24","slug":"dog-care","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/petpedia.co\/blog\/dog-care\/","title":{"rendered":"Basic Dog Care 101: The Essentials"},"content":{"rendered":"

Are you thinking of getting a dog, but you are scared of all the work that <\/span>dog care<\/span> and training entail? Maybe you already own a dog or several but still have some queries about how to best care for them.<\/span><\/p>\n

We won\u2019t lie to you. Dogs are probably the highest-maintenance pets out there, and looking after them is a big responsibility. However, it\u2019s nothing that willing owners can\u2019t handle with a proper diet, some exercise, basic obedience training, and a lot of TLC.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hopefully, this helpful guide will answer all your questions and help you become the best parent to your precious pup.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Are the Basic Needs of a Dog?<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

To survive, dogs need food, water, and shelter like all living things. But to lead a happy and healthy life, a dog requires physical care, exercise, and nurture from its parents, too.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Food and Water<\/span><\/h3>\n

Dogs can get all the nutrition they need from high-quality commercial dog food<\/a> available at stores and pet shops. Plus, they can eat human food as well<\/a> (even though they won\u2019t and can\u2019t eat all kinds of human food), so no special requirements here.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, every trustworthy <\/span>dog-care guide<\/span> warns about the dangers of overfeeding your pup. Dogs will always be hungry or look at you with those big, sad eyes like they haven\u2019t eaten in days. <\/span><\/p>\n

However, owners must limit their meals to avoid obesity and heart problems. Puppies need to be fed four times a day, but once they reach six months, a meal a day (or two smaller ones) is sufficient for a well-balanced diet.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dogs should always have clean, fresh water available from spotless water bowls. Here\u2019s another <\/span>basic dog-care<\/span> tip: avoid plastic water bowls and go for the stainless steel ones. These are more durable, and they prevent bacteria buildup.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Space<\/span><\/h3>\n

Unlike <\/span>caring for cats<\/span><\/a>, who generally prefer to be left alone, doggies are social animals who love spending time with their people. Certain circumstances may require a canine to live outside, but most pups are indoor dwellers.<\/span><\/p>\n

One of the most fundamental <\/span>dog-care facts<\/span> is that your canine cuties should have a space in the house to call their own. It can be a kennel or a soft dog bed, as long as it\u2019s clean and it\u2019s a spot where your pet feels safe and sound.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Depending on the breed, dogs enjoy sleeping and can sleep anywhere between 12 to 20 hours a day. They need a comfortable space to do this where they can rest undisturbed.<\/p>\n

Exercise<\/span><\/h3>\n

Dogs are active pets who love tugging, fetching, chasing, or plain old running around. Exercise not only helps dogs burn calories and stay healthy, but it also keeps them busy and stops the development of problematic behavior. <\/span><\/p>\n

In other words, if your dog is playing with its favorite toy, it won\u2019t have to chew through your favorite pair of shoes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Getting a quality retractable dog leash for long walks combined with a quality dog harness or attractive dog collar should be on your “to buy” list before you get your dog.<\/p>\n

Grooming<\/span><\/h3>\n

Like other pets, <\/span>dogs also need grooming<\/span><\/a>. <\/span>Daily dog care<\/span> involves regular brushing, cleaning, and checking for parasites. You can do this yourself or hire professional groomers, but some basics are needed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If your dog is well-behaved, a regular bath can get rid of odors and bring you and your pet closer. There are plenty of quality dog shampoo options depending on your dog’s fur and needs. Plus, it will help cut down on the costs of owning a dog.<\/p>\n

Training<\/span><\/h3>\n

Both puppies and adult dogs must be house-trained. Even if they\u2019ve been potty-trained, older pups could benefit from a refresher course, especially if they are in a new environment. <\/span><\/p>\n

One of the most important things about training is consistency in the commands you use and the reinforcements and rewards you offer. Sticking to <\/span>dog-care<\/span> rules might be tricky (again, those big, sad eyes \u2014 who can resist them), but it\u2019s worth it in the long run.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Obedience and house training are more than simply teaching your dog a few tricks and commands. It\u2019s also about learning essential life skills, socializing, avoiding problematic behavior, and providing mental stimulation. <\/span><\/p>\n

Experts even recommend taking obedience classes with your dog to strengthen your relationship and form a more lasting bond.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Health Care Tips<\/span><\/h2>\n

Dogs are healthy animals in general, and if their basic needs are met, owners shouldn\u2019t encounter any serious medical issues. Still, there are a few things responsible pet parents should be attentive to regarding their pooch and his health.<\/span><\/p>\n

Oral Care<\/span><\/h3>\n

Sadly, many fur-parents overlook the importance of canine dental care. Owners should brush their dogs\u2019 teeth, buy plenty of chew toys, and schedule frequent dental cleanings with the vet (the vet will decide how often). <\/span><\/p>\n

In addition, to provide proper <\/span>dog care<\/span> in terms of dental hygiene and stop bad breath from becoming overpowering, regularly check if their gums and tongue are a healthy color.<\/span><\/p>\n

Paw Care<\/span><\/h3>\n

Dogs\u2019 paws go through a lot of wear and tear. Pups can get a lot of dirt stuck in their paws, and it\u2019s your job to keep them clean. Wash the paws with a gentle pet-friendly soap, or get them a pair of booties if you see signs of dryness or irritation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another fantastic option is a paw care product like the Honest Paws Paw Care CBD Balm, which adds protection and care to sensitive areas like the paws and nose.<\/p>\n

Joint Care<\/span><\/h3>\n

All that running has a severe impact on the dogs\u2019 joints. Fortunately, there are some <\/span>dog-care products<\/span> \u2014 such as nutritional supplements \u2014 that your vet will prescribe to ensure maximum mobility. <\/span><\/p>\n

You may want to consider getting a glucosamine supplement for dogs, a trusted turmeric dog supplement<\/a>, or one that combines both. Another fantastic way to ease joint pain and improve joint health is by regularly giving your dog CBD oil.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Canines can experience stiff joints due to everyday activities, obesity, age, accidents, and trauma. However, certain breeds, such as Labs, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers are usually more prone to developing arthritis than others.<\/span><\/p>\n

Visiting the Vet<\/span><\/h3>\n

Vets are your biggest ally when it comes to your pup\u2019s health and happiness. Regular visits for vaccinations, dental cleaning, flea and tick prevention, and other health conditions is probably one of the essential <\/span>tips on how to take care of a dog<\/span>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Be on the Lookout for Warning Signs<\/span><\/h3>\n

Poor appetite, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea are all signs that something is bothering your dog. Sometimes, canines will get a mild illness that will pass on its own. <\/span><\/p>\n

However, a more severe condition could develop just as quickly. If you notice any of these signs or any abnormal behavior in your pet, consult a vet on how to proceed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Spayed Dog Care<\/span><\/h3>\n

All responsible owners should consider having their pets fixed to stop <\/span>backyard breeding<\/span><\/a> and unwanted pets ending up in animal shelters.<\/span><\/p>\n

Female dogs should undergo surgery between five and ten months of age. With male dogs, on the other hand, it depends on the size. <\/span><\/p>\n

Smaller dog breeds are neutered around six months of age, while bigger breeds should wait for a year or more before they are eligible for this procedure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Deciding to have your pet neutered or spayed<\/a> is the hard part. <\/span>Neutered dog care<\/span>, on the other hand, is pretty straightforward:<\/span><\/p>\n