As a dog owner, you want your dog to have the best life possible.
But since you're a human, you might be making a few mistakes with your dog without even
realizing it.
Here are a few of the common errors, shared by veterinarians and dog trainers.
Research
One of the best ways to set yourself up for success with your dog is to be prepared from
the beginning.
Pets require time and money, so don't make the mistake of commiting to becoming a pet
owner without doing your research first.
In addition, be careful when selecting which breed to adopt.
Dr. Rachel Barrack, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine of Animal Acupuncture, said,
"Some dogs require a lot more activity than others, some dogs do not do well left alone
for long periods, some do not do well with small children or cats."
A little bit of research and forethought will save you major headaches later on.
Socializing
If you decide to get a young puppy, you have a great opportunity to train them and help
them develop appropriate behaviors.
But you also have the responsibility of socializing them at a very young age.
Gary Richter, doctor of veterinary medicine, said,
"The 'magic' window for socialization of puppies ends around 14 weeks of age.
Up until then, they are very open to new experiences and are learning what is 'normal' in their
world."
Waiting until your dog is older to socialize them can cause problems.
Dr. Richter added,
"After 14 weeks, they can become suspicious and fearful, making socialization more challenging.
The more healthy, well-vaccinated dogs you can introduce a new puppy to the better."
Inconsistency
One of the easiest mistakes to make as a dog owner is not being consistent with your training.
Alison Patrolia, certified veterinary technician and dog trainer, said,
"Inconsistency is commonly seen when pet owners do not follow through with a command or schedule
routine for their dog.
The consequences that result is a confused dog that will then assume that he or she does
not have to do that particular command."
If you're having a hard time staying consistent because you and the other members of your
household have different expectations of your dog, it's worth it to have a conversation
about dog training.
Discipline
Have you ever come home to a ripped up pair of shoes?
As much as you probably want to discipline your dog right then, you should know that
it will do more harm than good.
Patrolia said,
"Dogs live in the present, which means discipline and praise must be given exactly when the
behavior occurs.
If you come home to find the dog has chewed the couch, but they are now sleeping on the
floor, you will not be successful in teaching the dog that chewing the couch was unacceptable."
Mental stimulation
Dogs get bored just like humans do.
And your dog's destructive behavior might be a result of boredom.
Make sure that you give them enough mental stimulation that they don't resort to destroying
things.
Patrolia said,
"Some owners complain that they take their dog outside and let him run and run, yet the
dog continues to be destructive and they don't know why.
They think he has had plenty of exercise."
However, running around doesn't keep your dog from getting bored.
Patrolia continued,
"The running may burn energy, but their dog is not getting exhausted due to lack of mental
stimulation.
Their dog could benefit from hide-and-seek with treats or toys, puzzle games, or enriching
their environment by hiking (to navigate different terrain and sights) in lieu of just running."
Oral hygiene
Do you brush your dog's teeth?
If not, start today.
Dr. Richter said,
"One of the most important but often overlooked daily routines for your dog is caring for
his teeth.
Roughly 85 percent of dogs will develop dental disease in their lifetime, most before they
are three years old."
Dr. Richter went on to reveal that dental disease can be debilitating — even life-threatening
— as bacteria in the gums gets into the bloodstream.
Add a doggie tooth brushing to your daily routine and your dog will have happy, healthy
teeth and gums.
Pet food
How much thought do you put into choosing your dog's food brand?
Just as your diet makes a big difference in your quality of life, your dog's food has
a big impact on how they feel.
Dr. Richter said,
"Without a doubt, the single biggest thing you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy
is provide them with optimal nutrition…
I recommend my patients stay away from kibble or canned foods.
The first step with pet foods is to keep the ingredients natural.
No artificial ingredients or preservatives should ever be used."
Many dog food brands now offer a "grain free" option.
If you don't want to to cook your dog a hot meal every night or feed them fresh food,
at least check the ingredients before you buy your next bag of dog food.
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