How to Keep Dogs Happy

Keep the family dog happy.

If you want to keep the family dog happy, you must keep your dog healthy. A family dog may live for fifteen years or more. During those years it would be great to think your dog is happy. What things should be considered when trying to satisfy the needs of the dog? These ideas may help.

Things You'll Need

• Some dog toys
• A lead
• Automatic waterer
• Quality pet food
• Required shots
• Vet check ups

Instructions

1. 

   To Keep the family dog happy, two of the most important things will be what food is offered, and the quality of drinking water given. Check with your vet to see which foods are recommended for your breed. Also, look on line for further information, then decide which food you will use.

2. Consider adding an automatic waterer for your dog. This will assure you the dog always has water. These are easy to clean, and easy to use.

3. 

   Dogs need exercise, and so do we. Playing ball with your dog is good for you, too. Try giving 10-15 minutes each day to your dog. If the dog is home alone during the day, think about taking two 10 minute breaks with your pet before retiring for the night.

4. Dogs are social beings. They enjoy walking through the neighborhood, sniffing scents, barking at other dogs, and investigating new sites. Walk with them daily if you can. If not, consider hiring a teen in your area to do it for you.

5. Keep your dog well groomed. Not only does a dog need to be brushed, dogs need their ears cleaned, teeth brushed, nails clipped. If these are things you don't want to do, take your pet to a groomer.

6. 

   Never ignore your dog's health issues. If you have any questions about your pet' s behavior or health, make an appointment with your vet. Many vets will help you by phone if you are a regular at the office. If you don't have a vet now, you can find one in your area at www.localvets.com

7. To keep the family dog happy, be sure fleas and ticks are not a part of the dog's life-ever. Speak to your vet about products available to help your dog avoid such pests. Remember, your dog can't take care of this. Your help is always needed.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many natural products to help with fleas and ticks. Search before making a choice.

• Exercise can energize your dog, and you. Don't exercise too close to bedtime.

Resources

• Find a vet near you.
• How to Pick The Best Dog For Your Family
• Traveling with your dog
• Puppy proof your house