Dogs are amazingly loyal and loving pets, and have a way of making everything better. We’ve been friends with Fido for thousands of years, but are learning more about him—and his needs—every day. Your canine buddy needs more than kibble and water to thrive! Read on as a local Pacheco, CA vet lists some common mistakes.
Overfeeding
Dogs have very healthy appetites, and they aren’t shy about letting us know. We know, it’s hard not to fall for that soulful stare, but don’t let Fido cajole you into overfeeding him. Obesity can lead to a whole slew of health issues in your furry pal!
Lack Of Exercise/Stimulation
Our canine companions have lots of doggy energy to burn off, and they also need regular exercise and entertainment just to stay fit and happy. Take time to walk and play with Fido every day, and make sure he has plenty of toys. You may be surprised at how much of an effect this may have on your pup’s attitude and behavior!
Not Enough Training
You don’t necessarily have to teach your pooch to fetch your slippers or turn the lights on and off, but you should be able to control his behavior with vocal commands. Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down are the most important ones.
Negative Reinforcement
Dogs don’t really process things the same way we do. For instance, they don’t really understand punishment. This is why positive reinforcement is so crucial. It’s fine to reprimand Fido if you see him doing something wrong, but a verbal reprimand in a stern tone of voice should be all that is needed. Yelling at your canine friend, striking him, kenneling him, and/or using things like shock collars may only make matters worse. Be consistent, and, if needed, seek professional advice for behavioral issues. Aside from that, stick to rewarding your dog for doing well.
Not Enough Veterinary Care
We simply can’t overstate the importance of making sure your furry best friend sees his vet regularly. All dogs should be spayed or neutered, microchipped, examined regularly, and kept current on their vaccinations and parasite control. Watch for signs of illness at home. If you notice anything that could be a sign of illness, bring your four-legged pal in right away.
Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your Pacheco, CA animal clinic, today!
