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Products That Your Pet Really Needs

By Garrett McMahan


For those about to add a dog to their families, you might be wondering about what your dog needs. There are a few items that every dog needs, and these essential products will help keep them healthy and safe. The following suggestions are a just a few things every dog needs.

Pet stores are filled with accessories, toys and doggie clothes, but most of these items are not essential to the maintenance and care of your animal. While you might be tempted by many items, in the beginning, it's best to stick with basic items that will be used every day.

The basic dog gear includes a good quality collar and leash, as well as a set of pet bowls. The bowls range in cost and there are plenty of attractive options, but the most important consideration is that they be filled with the best possible food and plenty of water. When it comes to food, you can ask your veterinarian for advice or just continue feeding the dog the food he or she currently eats. If you wish to change the food, do so gradually as dog tummies can be quite sensitive. Make sure that water is always available and give their water dish a quick clean every day as debris such as food or dirt can end up in the water dish.

For the collar, you need it to be snug enough to stay put but not so tight that it is uncomfortable. Many owners prefer using a harness to a neck collar, and this can be a good option for a dog with a slender neck such as a Greyhound or perhaps a dog breed prone to breathing difficulties such as the pug or the bulldog. For your leash, it simply needs to be sturdy, strong and long enough to be comfortable for you and your dog when you go out on a walk. Just be sure to place the dog's license and name tag on his or her collar or harness, as these are valuable bits of information.

As far as supplies go, that's usually all you need at first. One thing that all dogs also do need is obedience training. Every dog should be taught the basic obedience skills that will keep them safe, so while you might be considering putting off dog training until you get to know your dog better, the sooner you start training, the better. Obedience training can teach them to stay, sit, lie down and walk properly on their leash. In addition, a dog that stays or comes when you call won't dash away out into traffic or up to another dog that might be unfriendly. To keep them safe from cars, other dogs, wild animals and other harm, training is essential. A well-trained animal is also simply more pleasant to be around and can be taken to many more places. You will enjoy your dog more, and he will be happier, too, because dogs love to please their owners.

Most of us are unsure how to begin training and make it successful, so it's a good idea to purchase a set of dog training DVDs, such as The Dog's Way. This dog training program includes 12 easy-to-follow lessons to help teach all the basic commands, from walking properly while leashed to sitting, staying and lying down for an extended period of time. There are reminder cards that you can tote along on walks to help you practice skills, as well as a helpful workbook. In addition, if you purchase The Dog's Way, you will have access to a special website that provides training tips to help deal with many common dog issues, such as excessive barking and jumping.




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