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Dogs, whether puppies or adults, have several basic needs, including a collar, food and water bowls, chew toys, a bed, and a kennel. These items can be chosen to last a long time, but some, like toys, may need to be replaced as the dog grows. It's advisable to prepare financially for a dog's expenses and have extra funds available for unexpected costs. Selecting the right dog food can improve the dog's health and well-being in the long run, so it's recommended to research before making a decision and consult a veterinarian or pet professionals. The initial choice of dog food may not meet expectations, so transitioning to another food gradually is possible. Homemade diets are considered among the best food choices for dogs.
When choosing a dog house, several tips can help make the right choice:
- Ensure the house is spacious enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not excessively large to avoid using corners as a bathroom.
- Make sure the house contains clean drinking water if the dog is left alone for more than two hours.
- Allow the dog a mid-day rest period, especially in the first eight months.
- Train the dog to stop barking. Many reasons cause dogs to bark, so the owner should identify the cause to stop it. Correct unwanted barking by using a small device designed to control dog barking, such as a shake can. This is a safe device that can be homemade by placing a few coins in an empty can and tying it with a string. When unwanted barking occurs, shake this can loudly to startle the dog and stop its barking. If attention-seeking is the cause of barking, it can be ignored until the dog stops barking.
Tips for raising dogs include:
- Establish a healthy feeding schedule for the dog and prevent it from eating between meals.
- Teach the dog to relieve itself early in the morning, then after 30 minutes to an hour, take it outside to relieve itself after meals.
- Praise the dog for chewing on toys to teach it that chewing on toys is good and not shoes.
- Praise the dog for engaging in any acceptable social behavior and reward it to encourage repeating this behavior.