How to Keep Your Dog Safe

Many times we think about dogs as meant to protect us but we forget that it is our job to protect our dogs too. They are man's best friend and are often considered to be part of the family so we should protect them in any way we can.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Keep your dog safe by not leaving them outside too long.

   Don't leave your dog outside for extended periods of time, especially when you're not home. Dogs tend to get themselves into trouble and may escape if they get frustrated or bored and no one is there to let them back inside.

2. 
   Let your dog live inside.

   Let your dog live inside like a family member. Inside dogs live longer lives than outside dogs. You are guaranteed to have a much more beneficial relationship with your dog if you see them all the time and aren't "inconvenienced" by having to go outside to spend time with them. Many shelters won't let you adopt a dog unless you agree that the dog will live inside.

3. 
   Keep your dog safe, fence in your yard.

   Have a fenced in area where your dog can play instead of using a tie out. Tie outs can be hazardous and frustrating to dogs. They can get tangled very easily and could potentially hurt the dog. Also leaving your dog tied out gives them no protection from stray dogs or other hazards that can wander into your yard when it's not fenced in.

4. 
   Feed your dog healthy food.

   Feed your dog healthy food. Don't feed table scraps unless it's lean meats. Check to make sure that any foods you are feeding your dog aren't poisonous. Many foods that we eat are toxic to dogs. Chocolate, raisins and grapes are all toxic for dogs. There are many others!

5. 
   Make sure you don't have plants in your yard or house that are toxic to dogs.

   Make sure none of the plants in your yard or house are toxic. Let's face it, dogs sometimes eat plants so it's important to make sure they won't get sick from the plants.

6. 
   Make sure your dog has plenty of water.

   Make sure your dog always has clean water. Dehydration can harm your dog and lead to all sorts of problems.

7. 
   Love your dog!

   Love your dog! Your dog loves you and just wants your love in return, remember that!

Resources

• Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs
• Plants That are Toxic to Dogs

[didi8u]

on 7/13/2009 Great tips on How to Keep Your Dog Safe. 5* Thanks for sharing.

[dorigillman]

on 7/12/2009 great article on keeping your dog safe! we do all you suggest except i slip a bit from the table from time to time . just can't help it!!!!

[davidv1127]

on 7/6/2009 I love dogs, but we are cat owners for now....... 5 stars for your articles! How do you recommended people on here?

[waters]

on 6/28/2009 Good information on how to keep your dog safe.

[writeitout]

on 6/28/2009 Good tips on keeping dogs safe. Don't forget to keep up on shots, rabies vaccinations, heart worm medications, and flea and tick protection. 5*