Owning a pooch is a huge responsibility. Providing for your dog is kind of similar to having a child, expect you have one that barks. Even though dog care is challenging, you can handle it if you know what you’re doing. Continue reading to find out some great tips for caring for your dog.

Be sure to have your dog spayed or neutered. Studies show that these operations help your dog live longer and can reduce cancer risks. Dogs that are neutered or spayed don’t have strong urges to leave their home, reducing their chances of getting hit by a vehicle or getting lost.

Start training your dog as soon as you bring them home. Create a vocabulary list that all your family members will use to command the dog and stick to it. Dogs can become confused if the same words are not used to give them directions. The dog will see “get over here” and “come” as two different commands.

Your pet needs vaccinations, much in the same way that your baby does. Some common vaccinations that dogs require include rabies, hepatitis and distemper. Each pet is different, and each will have a different immunization schedule. Your veterinarian is a great resource when it comes to which vaccinations are right for the age and breed of your pet.

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Whenever you travel with your pet, don’t skimp on the packing. Of course you need to be well supplied with his food, water and any medications he may be on, but experts advise that you also bring his grooming supplies, vaccination paperwork, tags and an extra leash. Also, bring a flat sheet for when your dog will be on hotel furniture.

Your dog has teeth just like you, so it makes sense that he needs proper dental care. Invest in a dog toothbrush and brush his teeth often. Simply allowing the vet to do it at his regular checkups is not enough. You can also purchase treats that are specifically meant to help with your pet’s teeth.

Do you have a “wrinkly” dog, like a bulldog? If so, you have to be conscientious about the grooming process in order to help keep your pet clean. After you brush, take a baby wipe and use it to get in between the folds on their body. Make sure, though, to get them fully dry after doing so.

Really show your dog some love. As it usually happens, many times owners focus more on bad behavior rather than good ones. Your dog will develop more behavioral problems if you adopt this attitude. Try keeping track of how often you praise and scold your pet in a day. For every one negative thing, make sure you say five positive things as well. Your dog will probably show proper behavior more if this is done.

Those who want to care for dogs should take it seriously. Your dog will need everything it must have to survive, plus attention and love from you. Though it is a big job to do, you should be able to do it. This piece is a great resource for helping you care properly for any dog.