Common Mistakes When Caring for Dogs
Did you know that better pet care has increased dogs’ life expectancy and improved their overall quality of life? Unfortunately, many pet owners do not know how to care for their four-legged friends properly. We have completed research to discover some of the more common problems vets see when caring for dogs, which are mentioned below.
- Vaccinations. Annual vaccinations are crucial to the health and safety of our pups. The immune system of a dog is a lot different compared to humans. Current vaccinations are necessary to maintain good immunity against certain diseases. Unfortunately, some dog owners do not ensure that their dogs receive up-to-date vaccinations, which is detrimental to their health.
- Socialization. Puppies should learn to socialize during their first preventative care, around six to eight weeks. These puppies will grow into adult dogs with better odds of not being fearful of strangers and other animals. Some dog owners do not ensure that their dogs socialize, which can yield problematic behaviors such as anxiety and aggression.
- Exercise. Dogs that live the life of a “couch potato” can become overweight. Dogs love mental and physical stimulation. If they do not have that, destruction may occur! Some dog owners do not ensure that their dogs get adequate exercise daily. Consider alternatives such as doggie daycare or hiring a dog walker if you have a busy schedule.
- Oral Health. Your dog’s mouth is extremely important. Ignoring a dog’s oral health will risk developing periodontal disease, contributing to bad breath, tooth loss, and oral pain. We recommend you brush your dog’s teeth daily using a soft bristle toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste.
Up-to-date vaccinations, socialization, adequate exercise, and oral health are some of the most common mistakes vets have noticed regarding proper care. If you see something from our list that you can improve on, it is better late than never! Be proactive to give your dog the best quality of life.
