Dog Care: Five Tips on Caring for Your New Dog

Every dog has needs, but there's not much any dog can do to meet them on his own. Here's what you need to know when caring for your new best friend.

Feed Your Dog, and Feed Him Right!

As a puppy, your dog will require about four small meals a day. But by the time he's fully grown, one or two should do. And table scraps do not a good dog dinner make! Feed your pooch a well-known, quality brand of dog food, so you'll know he's getting everything he needs.

Every Dog Needs to Stay Clean

Unlike cats, dogs can't do a lot to groom themselves, so they're going to need your help in that department. Luckily, most dogs only need about three or four baths a year. The rest of the time, frequent brushing does the trick. But be sure to check often for ticks!

Exercise: He Needs It!

Dogs were not designed to lie around the house. They want to get out and move! So unless you have a large yard for him to run around in, you'll have to get out there and walk your dog yourself. If Fido is young and healthy, he'll need a large amount of ball- or Frisbee-chasing thrown in, as well.

Know the Right Way to Pick Up Your Dog

To lift your dog correctly, put one hand under his chest, and support his rump and hind legs with your forearm, or with your other hand. Never, ever pick up your dog by the scruff of his neck! It's true that his mother might have done it, but he was much smaller and lighter then.

The same goes for his tail and legs. They're tails and legs, not handles!

Every Dog Needs a Place to Call His Own.

Every dog needs a spot where he can get away from it all. It can be as fancy as a heated dog house or as simple as a cushion in the corner, but it should be quiet, warm and away from drafts. Some people recommend training crates, and many dogs are quite happy and comfortable with them.

In the end, it all comes down to common sense. Treat your dog well, and handle him right, and before long, you'll wonder how you ever did without him.