8 Common Dog Care Mistakes

Did you know that 44.5% of American families have dogs? Fido has a way of rounding out our small (or not-so-small) households and making them seem more like home. While we love all animals, our canine companions are particularly remarkable for their love, devotion, and loyalty. Fido needs a lot of love and attention to thrive. And, while dogs have been our furry best friends for thousands of years, there is always something new to learn about them. Continue reading to learn about some of the most common dog care mistakes in this article from Westside Animal Hospital, your Pooler, GA pet hospital. 

Inconsistent Or Incomplete Training

Fido is a good boy, but he needs more training to learn what is and is not proper petiquette. Training should start the day you bring your dog home. While you don’t have to teach your dog complicated commands or adorable tricks, he should master the basics: Sit, Stay, Heel, Come, and Lay Down.

Consistency is crucial here. Don’t allow Fido to lounge on the couch one day and then admonish him the next. When communicating with your pet, use the same words or phrases each time. Also, emphasis on positive reinforcement, which involves rewarding Fido for good behavior rather than penalizing him for accidents.

Forgetting Paw and Nail Care

Little things aren’t always so little. That is definitely the situation here.

Let’s look at those furry feet. Pawdicures are quite vital! Overgrown nails affect how your four-legged friend moves and stands. They can make Fido more likely to slip and fall on slick surfaces, as well as aggravate bone/joint problems.

Regarding that not-so-pearly-white smile, dental care is one of the most overlooked aspects of canine care. Our canine companions face many of the same difficulties as people. These can be both uncomfortable and risky. Ask your vet for doggy dental care tips.

Not Socializing Puppies

This is typically not applicable if you have adopted an older dog. However, if you’ve recently acquired a puppy, this should be one of your primary concerns. As the name implies, socializing entails taking your pet to different locations and introducing him to unfamiliar people. This is critical for ensuring that tiny Fido feels at ease and behaves well in new situations and with new people. This process must be performed within a set time frame, usually between the ages of three and fourteen weeks of age. This is when your pet is figuring out what he believes about the world. Improper or inadequate socialization at this stage will have a big negative impact on your dog’s behavior as he matures. Dogs who have not been properly socialized are much more likely to exhibit behavioral issues as adults.

For more information, speak with your veterinarian in Pooler, GA.

Overlooking Safety Concerns

Dogs are intelligent, but they don’t think the same way we do, and they definitely have no idea what is and is not safe for them. Worse, their natural urges can sometimes drive them straight into trouble. A few simple precautions can help prevent injuries.

Petproofing is a big deal. Remove or secure anything that could be dangerous to your pet. This includes everything small or sharp, plastic bags and ties, personal items, such as shoes and wallets, dangerous plants, chemicals, and medications.

Don’t forget about the outside! Make sure that your fencing is secure and that the gate closes properly. If you have a pool, take steps to keep Fido safe there as well.

Leash safety is also crucial. Some well-trained dogs can be trusted off-leash, but they are usually the exception rather than the rule. It has become far too common for people to just let their dogs run free. That endangers the pup, and also often puts other people and animals in the vicinity at risk. Always keep your canine buddy on a leash when you leave the house, unless he is in a fenced area.

Lack of Veterinary Care

All of our canine companions should be microchipped, spayed or neutered, and given routine preventative care.

Microchipping is a one-time procedure that takes only a moment, but could one day save your dog’s life. Many people believe their canine pals will never run off. That, unfortunately, couldn’t be further from the truth. Unfortunately, up to one out of every three pets go missing over their lifespan. (ID tags are still quite required.)

Spaying and neutering not only assist in preventing unwanted litters, but they also typically improve Fido’s personality and temperament. Fixed pets are calmer, less inclined to spray, and less interested in running away in search of a mate. Pups—especially males—are also considerably less likely to demonstrate violent behavior after being fixed.

Vaccines and parasite control protect your pet from a wide range of dangerous diseases and parasites, some of which can be fatal.

Regular exams are crucial as well: they allow you to monitor your pet’s health and identify changes that may suggest the onset of a health condition.

Of course, you should keep an eye out for signs of disease. If you notice anything unusual, contact your Pooler, GA pet hospital right away. 

Skipping Quality Time

Dogs are incredibly loyal and affectionate. They have physically risked—and even sacrificed—their lives for their community. That unwavering, unconditional friendship is a wonderful gift, and one that has the ability to transform our lives significantly. Fido, too, is content with food, shelter, and, most importantly, love.

Spend quality time with your dog every day. This will help you as well!

Not Ensuring Your Dog Gets Enough Exercise

Dogs, like humans, need frequent physical activity to stay healthy. The type and amount of exercise your dog needs will depend on his age, size, health, and, of course, personal preferences. At the very least, you should take your dog for a walk every day.

The benefits of a healthy puppy workout routine go far beyond simply keeping your canine buddy fit. This is also important for his mental and emotional well. Fido would become bored at home, staring at the walls all the time. Being able to enjoy a change of scenery—and scent different plants and trees—is extremely good for our canine companions. It provides enrichment, prevents boredom, and just keeps tails wagging.

This will also help your furry pal reduce stress. Fido will feel more relaxed and potentially tired after a walk, run, or play session. Afterward, he’ll be more interested in taking a nap than tearing up your couch cushions.

Overfeeding Fido

Obesity is one of the most common disorders we see in our canine companions. More than half of our canine patients are, well, chokers. Fido may look cute with some extra padding, but don’t be fooled. Carrying even a few extra pounds might be harmful to your beloved pet’s health and well-being!

Canine obesity has major health risks that are far from charming. Here’s a partial list:

• Respiratory Disease
• Breathing Problems
• Impaired Immune Function
• Bladder Stones
• Joint Problems
• Kidney Disease.
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Heart Hypertension.
• Anesthesia Complications
• Arthritis And Musculoskeletal Illnesses
• Skin Conditions.
• Liver Disease
• Lack Of Energy
• Reduced Quality Of Life
• Ccl Tears
• Exercise Intolerance
• Flatulence
• Frequent Urination
• Heat Sensitivity
• Neoplasm

Obesity may also shorten Fido’s life. Keep a close eye on your dog’s weight. Consult your Pooler, GA veterinarian for specific recommendations on your pet’s nutritional and care needs.

Book An Appointment At Your Pooler, GA Pet Clinic.

Is it time for your dog’s exam, parasite treatment, or wellness care? Contact Westside Animal Hospital, your Pooler, GA, animal clinic, anytime!