Dogs make the perfect companions for wherever you are or plan to go. But unless you are a natural dog whisperer, communicating with your canine can sometimes be a confusing and frustrating experience.
How can you get your puppy to stop chewing your shoes or slippers? What pet accessories or toys should you buy to distract them and keep them happy? You can find the answers to these questions and more by checking out these tips.
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1. Provide comfortable shelter and bedding
Dogs have a furry coat. However, this is not enough to shield them from the elements. Naturally, German Shepherds and Huskies can suffer from being exposed to too much heat. It is your responsibility to provide adequate shelter and protection from the elements, regardless of whether you decide to keep your pet inside the home or outside of it.
If your dog sleeps inside the house, you can give him a crate with a dog pillow, blanket or towel inside. These can act as warm bedding for your dog that is easy to remove and wash. For dog houses, you can fill up the interior with straw or blanket.
2. Supply fresh clean water
Keep your dog hydrated by providing fresh, clean water on a daily basis. Pour it into a shallow bowl to make it easier for your dog to drink from. Don’t let your big dogs drink from the toilet bowl. The water may look clean but bacteria can still lurk inside. Keep the lid closed to prevent or discourage the habit.
Checking the dog’s skin and gums lets you know if your canine companion is adequately hydrated. Gently move your hand along your dog’s rib cage. Ideally, you should be able to move his skin easily. His gums should be moist as well.
Observe how much water is being consumed on a regular basis. If there is significant increase or decrease in consumption, this can indicate that your dog is sick and needs to visit the vet. Dry mouth and panting are other signs of mild dehydration. For milder cases, you can add Pedialyte to your dog’s water bowl to replace lost electrolytes.
The only exception in this case is a nursing female. With nursing females, you will notice a significant increase in water consumption to make up for the liquids lost during feeding sessions.
3. Use scents to curb chewing
Dogs, especially puppies, love to chew. They will chew on anything from toys, to slippers, to newspapers to furniture. Use scents to deter your canine from ravaging your personal items. You have two options:
- Apply a layer of Bengay over the object
- Another technique involves vinegar:
A more organic alternative is to mix equal parts of water, white vinegar and apple cider together. Mix the liquids well then pour them inside a spray bottle. Spray the liquid over your furniture or other household objects.
4. Exercise your dog
Exercise is essential to keeping fit and healthy for people and dogs alike. The easiest way is to get your dog out for a walk, a jog or run on a regular basis. All you need is a comfortable dog collar and leash to keep your four-legged pal in check.
There are several other benefits to giving your dog some exercise. For one, it releases any pent up energy. Bored dogs are more likely to bark and unleash their frustrations by chewing on stuff around your home. It also allows you to spend time with your dog and strengthens your bond. Even pregnant dogs need exercise. However, you may notice that your dog will tire more easily as the delivery date draws nearer.
Playing with your dog can also be a form of exercise. You can buy chew toys or use items you already have in your home. Play Frisbee, tag or fetch whenever you can. A few minutes of playtime will help make your animal pal happier and more secure.
By meeting your dog’s physical and emotional needs, your dog will feel happier, become fitter and healthier. Follow these tips for a more enjoyable time with your dog.
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