If you’ve recently welcomed a dog into your home, or are thinking about doing so, it’s important to know how to look after them properly. Regular walks are an obvious point, but below are other key areas you need to pay attention to as a dog owner.
Food
Any pet will have specific dietary requirements and they all deserve to have the best that their owners can afford. They are many different brands of dog food available, and your budget will determine what you can and can’t buy, but you shouldn’t be stingy when it comes to your dog’s food. Just like your body needs the right nutrition to stay active and healthy, so does your four-legged friend. Some pet owners choose grain-free pet food, but there are benefits to having grains in your dog’s food. Either way, do your research first to better understand what is the best food for your dog. For instance, if you want to make sure about what to look for, you can take a look at this Royal Canin Dog Food Review. You’ll find insights about the brand and why you should use certain kinds of food based on your pup breed.
Dental Care
It’s quite common for dogs to have dental problems, and they can be prone to gum diseases and other unfortunate issues. Not only is this bad for the oral health of your dog, but if these problems are not dealt with, they can lead to further serious health issues. You should purchase specialist dog toothpaste (human toothpaste will not be suitable) and dog toothbrush, which goes over your finger, and gently clean their teeth as often as you can. It might be difficult to get them to stay still, but you must do your best. If you’re planning on getting a puppy, start doing this early on so they get used to it.
Regular Health Checks
Although vet trips can be expensive, don’t avoid attending regular check-ups with your dog. It’s better to make sure that if there are any health issues you can catch it early, as it’s not always easy to spot warning signs. If your dog does appear to be uncomfortable, has a lack of energy or is just not their usual self, always take them to the vet to check if something is wrong. Try to see the vet at least once a year for a check-up to help maintain your dog’s health.
Keep on Top of Grooming
Keeping your dog clean and having regular hair cuts is important, especially if you have a long-haired breed. Going for walks and playing outside can lead to a lot of dirt and nasty things getting caught in their fur, especially if it’s been raining! To make sure you minimize the risk of ticks, bugs, and generally poor hygiene, keep on top of the grooming. You can try to do this yourself at home, but going to a professional dog groomer might be the better option.
Use Doggy Day Care
Dogs are social creatures and then don’t like to be left alone for extended periods. If you do work a 9-5 job, instead of leaving your dog at home to wait for you, think about putting them into a doggy day-care facility, or hiring a local dog sitter. It’s a great way for them to stay entertained while you’re working, and you can have peace of mind knowing they’ve been fed, walked and looked after.
Make sure your dog is getting the best out of you and use the points above as a guide to help you care for your new friend.
