10 Common Dog Owner Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
If you own a dog, you are probably his or her best friend in the world. Dogs love us unconditionally, and they deserve the best care we can give them. However, it’s easy for even the most well-meaning dog owners to make mistakes that detract from their pet’s well-being. To take your dog’s care to the next level, check out our list below. This article covers many of the most common pitfalls for dog owners and ways to avoid them!
1. Neglecting Dental Care
Dental procedures are among the most common reasons for dogs to visit the vet. Not only do cleanings and extractions cost a lot of money, but they’re also traumatic for your pet. Like any surgery, they present an element of risk. If your vet advises a dental procedure for your dog, be sure to follow their advice. Neglecting necessary dental surgeries can harm your dog’s long-term health. However, preventative dental care at home is also key. Brush your dog’s teeth, and provide treats designed to clean your dog’s mouth. Ask your vet for advice when selecting dental care products!
2. Skipping Vet Visits
If your dog seems happy, it can be tempted to skip your scheduled checkup with the vet and pocket the savings. However, routine visits are an important way to keep your dog healthy. Establishing a relationship with your vet before something goes wrong is in your dog’s best interest. When your vet knows what to expect from your dog under normal circumstances, they’ll be able to detect more easily when something’s not right. Regular visits can also help your vet track changes over time. By observing your dog’s mobility, heart rate, weight, and behavior, your vet can investigate fluctuations and intervene to keep your dog healthy.
3. Opting Out of Flea, Tick and Heartworm Prevention
If your dog stays indoors most of the time, you might question whether flea, tick and heartworm preventatives are really necessary. However, it’s easier than you might think for these pests to find your dog. Dogs who go outside for even a few minutes a day will probably be exposed to parasites. Even if your dog never goes outside, eggs can be tracked in on shoes and clothing. These pests carry diseases that can seriously harm your dog, so always play it safe!
4. Making an Unrealistic Selection
Not every dog is right for every owner or household. Some breeds are naturally prone to health or behavioral problems that are expensive and time-consuming to deal with. Even if a dog is adorable or has a sweet personality, he or she might not be a good fit for your home. Make sure to consider your personal budget and your available time, space and patience before bringing home your new best friend.
5. Letting Your Dog Get Bored
Dogs need mental stimulation, just like us. Especially if you have an intelligent, active breed, you’ll need to provide your dog with problems to solve and jobs to do. Some dogs were bred to help humans do work, from herding to hunting and protection. To keep a working breed—or any breed—from getting bored, be sure to expose your dog to a variety of places and people. Provide adequate toys, and consider getting a puzzle feeder to challenge your dog’s brain. If your dog needs more attention during the day while you’re gone, Dan’s Pet Care specialists can help!
6. Combining the Wrong Pets in the Same Household
Some dogs thrive in single-pet households, while others enjoy the companionship of other pets. While most pets can be trained to tolerate each other, some pets are truly not compatible and never will be. If your dog is consistently getting bullied or attacked by another pet, it may be time to intervene.
7. Overfeeding
One of the most common health problems among dogs today is obesity. It causes many other health problems, from heart disease to joint pain. These can be expensive for you and can cause your dog to suffer. Ask your vet how much your dog should be eating, and stick to the plan—no matter how cute your dog’s eyes are when they beg for more!
8. Buying From Unethical Breeders and Shops
It’s important to carefully research a breeder before buying one of their dogs. When breeders cut corners, puppies are often born with genetic health problems. Improper breeding standards can seriously shorten a dog’s life span and quality of life. Pet shops are notorious for selling dogs with genetic defects, too. Ask your vet for help choosing a local breeder or pet store. Also, try to speak with owners who’ve purchased from them in the past.
9. Neglecting Behavioral Problems
If your dog is displaying aggression, extreme fear, or separation anxiety, address the problem right away. If your vet’s advice doesn’t solve the issue, contact a trainer or behavioral expert. Even a small dog with behavioral issues can become difficult to manage if the problem is ignored. A well-trained pet is well worth the cost of hiring a professional.
10. Buying Low-Quality Food
Feeding your dog a cheap diet might save some dollars in the short term. However, in the long term, your dog needs quality food to thrive. Many dogs need special diets to address specific health needs, like skin problems, kidney trouble, or obesity. Investing in a healthy, vet-recommended diet is one of the most important things you can do to keep your pet healthy for life.
