Dogs are a very fun pet to have around the house. They offer unconditional love while bringing joy to the lives of their owners. That being said, if you want a happy, healthy dog, you need to know as much information as possible. This article gives you a glimpse of what owning a dog is all about.

Make your home doggie-proof. Don’t take a dog into your home without being sure that it is safe from top to bottom. Place any meds or household cleaning supplies out of reach, and place any trash cans in a cabinet. Some indoor plants are poisonous, so put them high up.

Just like people need regular yearly physicals, dogs need the same thing. Since your dog does not speak the human language, he simply cannot tell you if his tooth aches or his arthritis is making it difficult for him to walk. An annual checkup can help catch such issues before they become a major problem.

Choose a dog in that can easily and happily blend into your lifestyle. For instance, if you are athletic, you might want an active dog, not a poodle. If you are more of a homebody, a smaller, less active dog who enjoying being pampered is the better choice. Selecting the right dog will make you both happier.

Try not to buy low quality food for your dog. Cheap brands usually are loaded with additives that can be bad for health. Find a trusted group that offers a list of healthy dog food. Your dog will appreciate your research.

Let your dog have rawhide rather than bones from the meat you eat. Bones can chip and hurt your dog if sharp fragments are ingested. Rawhide is a great treat you can use in lieu of real bones.

Take the time to train your dog on a leash. He should know the “heel” command, stay close to you and not veer far ahead or drag behind. Walking this way will help to keep your pet safe, and it will make it easier for you to enjoy walks too. Even if you’re using loose leashes for walking here and there, make sure the dog understands this command.

Dogs provide people with lots of love that is simply impossible to match. However, to ensure you enjoy the best possible relationship with your dog, it’s crucial that you learn all you can about it. This article has provided you with many tips to become a great owner. Use them as needed, and you and your four-legged friend will be very happy together.