The American Kennel Club has made September Responsible Dog Ownership Month. What better time to think about how you care for the dog in your life, and what you could do to make their life and yours better? Here are just a few helpful tips from your pet’s vet near Indian Trail.
Know Your Dog’s Breed
While many of the rules of responsible dog ownership apply to all dogs, your dog’s specific breed can add some rules of its own. Study up on the general traits of their breed. Are they active or anxious? Are they friendly with strangers and other dogs? How intensive are their grooming requirements? Do they have known medical issues you need to discuss with your vet or common undesirable traits to watch out for? Knowing all you can about your dog’s breed will give you a clearer picture of their needs and what to expect.
The Value of Training
It’s easy to see how high-energy breeds could benefit from obedience training, but in fact, training can help all dogs. Obedience school, especially if you begin when the dog is still young, helps with socialization and with weeding out negative behaviors like biting. Teaching the dog to obey specific commands like “sit” or “drop it” can give you a reliable way to control them in difficult or dangerous situations. And training works both ways, teaching owners as well as dogs how better to communicate and understand each other.
Make an Appointment With Your Dog’s Vet near Indian Trail
All dogs benefit from routine exams and preventative care. See your vet near Indian Trail regularly to make sure your dog is in good health today and to get the tools and information you need to keep them in good health tomorrow. Call now to make an appointment for your furry friend at Best Care Animal Hospital.