How to care for a dog

Becoming a dog owner is a big responsibility. Knowing how to care for a dog is the first step towards becoming your dog’s best friend. While dog ownership is a rewarding and fun experience, owning a dog takes a commitment. If you'll forgive the pun, owning a dog is not always a walk in the park.

This article assumes you already own or will soon own an adult dog. If you're getting a puppy, be sure to read How to care for a puppy.

Shelter

The first decision is where to keep your dog. Will this be an indoor or an outdoor dog? Larger breeds thrive well outside, but they need a dog house for protection from weather. An enclosed dog run is a valuable addition to his or her shelter.

Dogs like to spend time with their people, so include your pet in the regular family routine. An indoor dog should have a designated spot for a bed. Provide a supply of toys and a play area.

It's best to get a smaller dog if you don't have a big yard or you won't be able to walk your dog often.

Food

With dogs ranging from Chihuahuas to St Bernards, nutrition is not “one size fits all.” Study the nutritional requirements for your breed. Makers of dog food have a wealth of information available for the new dog owner. Read nutrition labels so you know what your pet is getting. Look for a mix of soy, meat products, grains, vegetables, animal fats, and added vitamins and minerals. Meat flavor is often added to encourage the dog to eat well.

Dogs should not be fed table scraps. Human food is not appropriate for pets. You should especially avoid raw meats and bones that may splinter and get stuck in her throat. A good dog food will provide protein and calories appropriate for your dog. Look for a formula that fits your pet’s age, size, and activity level. A working dog and growing puppy have different needs than a sedentary pet.

Choose a dog bowl that is sturdy. Look for a material that can be sterilized. Keep water available at all times. Treats such as dog biscuits should be saved for special occasions. They make good rewards for desired behavior.

Exercise and play

Your dog’s health depends on receiving adequate exercise. Small pets may receive enough exercise in the house. But larger dogs must have time in the outdoors to burn up their energy and maintain muscle tone. A dog should receive exercise two or three times a day. The social interaction with family is also important to your dog.

Choose toys that are made of safe materials, such as rawhide or hard rubber. Avoid toys with whistles or bells that may come loose and become lodged in the dog’s throat.

Many cities have dog parks designed especially for pets. If the area is completely fenced in, you may be able to let your dog run free without a leash. But make sure he or she is properly trained before you remove the leash. Also, check to see what other dogs are in the area and how they are behaving. Dogs will cave in to peer pressure. Don’t let your neighbor’s dog be a bad influence on your pet.

Health and well-being

Regular trips to the vet are essential to your pet’s well-being. Your vet will know what local regulations apply to dog ownership. Certain vaccinations such as rabies and distemper are commonly required.

You will also encounter laws regarding collars and leashes. Regardless of local requirements, you will want to equip your dog with a collar and ID tag. Include the dog’s name and yours, along with your phone number and address. Many dog owners choose tattooing or injected chips to aid in recovery if the dog is lost or kidnapped.

Be alert to signs of illness in your pet. Any change in behavior or appearance can signal an illness or injury. Know what is normal in urinary and bowel habits so you can spot irregularities. Check your dog’s teeth and ears on a regular basis.

Unless you are raising dogs for breeding purposes, you should plan on spaying or neutering your pet. The procedure can help your pet’s general health and minimize behavior problems. You will also help the planet by cutting down on the population of unwanted pets.

Grooming

You may not be raising a prize-winning dog to show for competition, but it needs to be groomed. Purchase a dog brush to give your pet a regular brushing. This not only keeps her coat in good condition, but you can also look for fleas, ticks, mites, and skin problems. Use a dog shampoo for bathing.

And don’t forget her teeth. Animals in the wild chew on things that keep their teeth in good condition. A domesticated animal relies on you to provide its needs. Some chew toys will aid in keeping teeth free of tartar and plaque. You may also want to purchase a dog dental kit to keep her teeth gleaming.

Behavior

Dogs, like children, have different personalities. Some are compliant and well-behaved. Others are—well, you get the picture. If you begin training your dog at an early age, you should experience a minimum of problems. Establish the boundaries clearly and be consistent. Dogs will push the limits. If you let them get away with it once, they will remember and push a little farther the next time.

There are excellent books and videos on dog training. Many local pet stores also offer obedience training classes. Or check with your veterinarian or a local animal shelter. If you have adopted a pet from an abusive situation, you may face more challenges in the behavior department. Be consistent, loving, and firm and you will eventually change your pet’s responses.

Remember: You make the rules, not the dog!