Important Things Veterinarians Want Every Dog Owner to Know

Dogs are a part of the family for many people, and as a pet owner it is important to understand what your veterinarian wants you to know. This includes everything from preventive care and scheduled vaccinations, to recognizing when your dog is sick or injured. By being proactive and understanding common issues that can occur with dogs, you can help keep your furry friend healthy and happy. To help make this happen, we’ve compiled a list of the most important things every dog owner should know, straight from the mouths of veterinarians.

Important Things About Dogs in Plano and Garland, TX

Finding the Right Dog

The first step to having a great experience as a dog owner is finding the right pup for your lifestyle and personality. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a dog, such as size, energy level, coat type, and shedding. You also want to make sure you’re getting a purebred or mixed breed from a reputable breeder. Once you’ve found your perfect match, it’s time to get started on the next steps.

Preparing Your Home

A pet-proof home is a safe home. Before bringing your new furry friend home for the first time, do a quick sweep of your house and make sure there are no small objects lying around that they could choke on, toxic plants that they could eat, or dangerous chemicals within reach. Once you’ve done that, you can start thinking about things like where their food and water bowls will go, what kind of bedding they’ll need, and where they’ll be spending their time when you’re not home.

Eating

You might not think about it much, but what and how often your dog eats plays a big role in their overall health. That’s why it’s important to talk to your veterinarian about what kind of food is best for your pup and how often they should be eating. A good rule of thumb is to feed them twice a day—once in the morning and once at night—but every dog is different, so it’s always best to consult with an expert before making any changes to their diet

First Impressions

One of the most important things you can do for your new dog is socialize them early on. This means exposing them to different people, places, and animals so that they can learn how to behave in different situations. It’s important to start socialization early—ideally before they’re four months old—so that they have plenty of time to adjust to all kinds of different environments.

Training

Training is essential for every dog, no matter how big or small. A well-trained dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog makes for a happy owner. At K-9 University, we offer both obedience training and behavior modification to help your dog become the best possible version of themselves.

Hygiene

Hygiene is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. Be sure to brush your dog’s teeth regularly and keep their coat clean and free of mats. It’s also important to trim your dog’s nails on a regular basis. Professional dog grooming services can help you with this most important task!

Exercise

Exercise is crucial for all dogs, but especially for those who live in urban areas with limited space to run around. A daily walk or trip to the park is a great way to get your pup some much-needed exercise and fresh air.

Dog Day Care Services

Leaving your furry friend at home all day can lead to some serious behavioral problems. Dogs are social creatures that thrive on companionship, and without it, they can become anxious, destructive, and even depressed. This is why many veterinary experts recommend professional dog day care services.

Dog day care provides a safe and stimulating environment for your dog to socialize and play. In addition, the staff is trained to provide dogs with the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. As a result, dog day care can help to improve your dog’s behavior and overall wellbeing.

Vaccinations/

Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your dog healthy. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about which vaccinations are right for your pup and make sure they stay up to date on all their shots.

Warning Signs

Recognizing when your dog is sick or injured is crucial in providing them with the best possible care. Be sure to learn the signs and symptoms of common illnesses and injuries so you can act quickly if your pup falls ill or gets hurt.

Contact K-9 University in Plano or Garland, TX for Help Today!

As any veterinarian will tell you, being a responsible dog owner requires knowledge and effort. But don’t worry—K-9 University is here to help! By following these simple tips from the experts, you’ll be on your way to becoming a pro in no time.

Contact us today at our Plano or Garland locations to learn more about our dog day care services and rates. We look forward to meeting you and your furry family member!