Furry Friends and How to Care for Them: A Beginner’s Guide to Dog Ownership

When you decide to bring a dog into your household, you embark on a relationship full of warmth, unquestioning acceptance, and lots of fun. But having a dog is also a responsibility, and you must provide consistent care to ensure your animal companion receives all they need for a happy, healthy life. In our Beginner’s Guide to Dog Ownership, you will find tips to provide the appropriate care that will make time with your dog enjoyable and fulfilling for both of you.

Proper Feeding

Dog owners should give particular attention to the nutritional needs of their dog, which can change over time.

In the early months, provide a high-quality puppy food that contains the right nutrients needed for growing muscles and bones and proper brain development.

In the adult years, make sure your dog has the right amount and type of food for his energy requirements and monitor weight to prevent health problems.

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change. Choose a food that is easily digested that provides nutrients for lower exercise levels. 

Regular Exercise

Size, breed, and temperament often determine a dog’s exercise needs.

Daily walks not only ensure good housebreaking habits.

They also work off calories and provide good mental health for your pet.

However, your dog may also require time at doggie daycare or a long romp in the park.

Exercise can also include indoor playtime, chasing a ball, and engaging with a tug toy.

Talk to your veterinarian regularly about your dog’s fitness and health to ensure you’re giving them the exercise they need.

Grooming

Some dogs need regular appointments with a groomer.

Others are easy to care for and only needs occasional bathing and brushing.

Nails should be clipped as needed, and ears should be carefully cleaned to prevent health issues.

Whatever your dog’s individual grooming needs are, use approved pet products and take the time to bond with your pet, which can be enjoyable for both of you.

Veterinary Care

Regular vaccinations, flea and tick control, and annual checkups will ensure that your dog avoids many of the health problems that can occur in canines.

Look for a local veterinary practice that has a reputation for quality, compassionate care, and will take the time to provide detailed information about routine health maintenance and specialized treatment, when needed. 

Finding an established practice with emergency services, like South Seattle Veterinary Hospital , is also important.

If you know where to go before an emergency, stressful and scary health situations with your pet will be that much easier.

Good care for your dog will quickly become a habit that fits in with your daily routine.

If you follow the tips in this guide to dog ownership, you can be assured that your dog will have the care he or she needs to enjoy everyday activities with you and your family for many years to come.