Are you a current dog owner or did you have one previously? If so, you are already aware of the many blessings that come from dog ownership. The proper education can help you become the best owner possible. Read on to find some new advice.

If you are thinking of getting a new dog for your family, be sure you are prepared for this commitment. Smaller dogs will require at least a 14-16 year commitment, and larger dogs will require at least 10 years. If you are not prepared to own the dog for its entire life, then do not choose a dog as a pet.

Take your dog to the vet regularly. This may seem like an added expense that you don't need, but when you take your dog to the veterinarian, he can screen your dog for diseases and Puppies Topic #2 make sure he is in the best of health. This of course prevents problems down the road.

In addition to verbal commands, employ a variety of hand signals when training your dog. Your dog may pick things up much easier when they are given these type of signals. Give both methods a try to find out which works best for your particular pup.

Although the sound may be cute, your dog's nails shouldn't click along the floor when it walks. That's a sign that the nails are too long. The nails should actually just barely touch the ground. Seek the advice of a professional on what tools are the best for giving your dog a pedicure.

Make sure that your dog receives plenty of exercise. Exercise keeps your dog healthy, both physically and mentally. Whether you decide to take the dog for a walk or if you're just playing fetch, it will benefit both of you. Exercise is a great Puppies Topic #2 way to bond with your pet.

Just like humans, dogs need to get a good amount of exercise each and every day. If your dog does not get the exercise it needs, it health will decline, and so will his attitude towards life. Take the time to exercise your dog for at least a half hour each day for the best results.

Accept the aging process in your dog and know how to meet his changing needs. Your older dog may require dietary changes, more rest and not be as playful as he once was. This doesn't mean he should be left to grow old in a corner. Adapt to his needs and make his golden years enjoyable!

Be careful to not over feed your dog. Obesity is a huge problem for animals these days due to the fact that many dog owners allow the animal to determine how much it eats each day. For the best results, and health of your dog, you should follow the instructions of your vet when it comes to feeding habits.

If you are not allowed to place a fence in your yard but want your dog to run freely there, consider an electric fence. Electric fences are easy and inexpensive to install, and they can help to keep your free roaming pet safely contained. Using them will require a little training, but they are quite effective if you put the work in.

Just like people, dogs need plenty of exercise for optimum health. Dogs are naturally hunters and love to run by instinct. Take your dog to the park, play Frisbee with him and give him a daily walk. This will help keep him physically healthy but will also make him mentally healthier.

Your dog needs healthy teeth and you should brush them regularly. This helps to prevent dental problems and gum disease, but also prevents other illnesses. Infections in the mouth can spread to other areas of the dog's body, like the kidneys and the heart. Pet stores sell special Puppies Topic #2 toothpaste for dogs.

Were you aware of how harmful vitamins can be to your pet? Don't give your dog extra vitamins if he's eating a well-balanced diet. Too much of certain vitamins could cause damage to the blood vessels, bones and joints. Before giving your dog vitamins, get your vet's OK.

Dog ownership brings great rewards. Even more rewarding when you know all there is to know about dogs. Now that you have read the above article, you should have a better understanding of dogs. Use the tips given so you can enjoy all your time with your canine friend.