{"id":15918,"date":"2025-12-02T05:49:50","date_gmt":"2025-12-02T13:49:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.justfoodfordogs.com\/?p=15918"},"modified":"2026-08-19T16:24:06","modified_gmt":"2026-08-19T23:24:06","slug":"how-to-take-care-of-a-dog","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-take-care-of-a-dog","title":{"rendered":"How to Take Care of a Dog: Tips for Pet Parents"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"15918\" class=\"elementor elementor-15918\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-19ec7e03 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"19ec7e03\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-12437be0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"12437be0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bringing home a new dog is one of life\u2019s biggest joys. Whether you\u2019ve adopted a playful puppy, rescued an adult dog, or welcomed a senior companion, the excitement of becoming a pet parent is unmatched. But behind every wagging tail and warm cuddle is a set of responsibilities that ensure your dog lives a long, healthy, and happy life.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding how to take care of a dog is not just about feeding and walking; it\u2019s about providing structure, love, safety, and high-quality nutrition from day one.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preparing properly shapes your dog\u2019s behavior, prevents health issues, reduces stress, and sets you both up for success. This dog care guide covers what dogs need at every life stage, essential dog maintenance, and practical dog care tips supported by trusted references.<\/p>\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-do-you-prepare-for-your-dog\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Do You Prepare for Your Dog?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before you bring a dog home, it\u2019s important to think through what <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/dog-schedule.html\">your lifestyle<\/a>, home environment, and long-term plans look like. Preparation helps ensure your new companion adjusts smoothly and comfortably. Here are key considerations:<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-choosing-the-right-breed-or-size-for-your-home\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Choosing the right breed or size for your home<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dogs vary dramatically in energy level, grooming needs, temperament, and exercise requirements. A high-energy working breed like a <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/dog-food-for-herding-breeds.html\">Border Collie<\/a> might thrive in an active household, while a small, calm breed like a French Bulldog might be better suited for apartment living.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Matching your dog\u2019s needs with your daily routine is essential for long-term happiness. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s vital to think through your and your family&#8217;s needs and lifestyle so you can choose the breed that works best for you.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-preparing-the-living-environment\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Preparing the living environment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before your dog arrives, take time to dog-proof your home. This includes removing hazardous items, securing loose cables, putting away toxic plants, and preparing safe spaces where your dog can sleep and relax. A crate, cozy dog bed, or playpen can provide structure and comfort during the first few weeks.<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-researching-dog-supplies-and-food\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Researching dog supplies and food<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure you have the basics ready: food and water bowls, a collar and leash, grooming tools, toys for mental stimulation, and high-quality dog food. Preparing these in advance helps lower stress for both you and your dog during the transition. It also helps your pup feel like he&#8217;s at home.<\/p>\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-about-feeding-and-nutrition\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What About Feeding and Nutrition?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-15569\" src=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Westway-Studio-JustFoodForDogs-August-2025-141-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"dog anticipating food\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most important aspects of dog maintenance is proper nutrition, but many pet parents find themselves wondering just what do dogs need. Dogs need complete and balanced meals suited to their size, breed, and life stage. Feeding schedules also vary depending on your dog&#8217;s age and health status:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Puppies: 3-4 meals per day<\/li>\n\n<li>Adult dogs: 2 meals per day<\/li>\n\n<li>Senior dogs: 1-2 smaller, easily digestible meals per day<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beyond the schedule, the type of food you choose affects your dog\u2019s long-term health. Here\u2019s a breakdown of common diet formats:<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-dry-food\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Dry food<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dry kibble is convenient, easy to store, and widely available. Many pet parents like it for affordability and shelf life, but its quality varies widely. Some kibble formulas may include fillers, artificial preservatives, or lower levels of fresh ingredients.<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-wet-food\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Wet food<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wet or canned food tends to be more palatable, making it ideal for picky eaters or dogs with dental issues. It contains more moisture, which supports hydration, but can be more expensive and less convenient to store once opened.<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-homemade-diets\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Homemade diets<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many dog owners like the idea of fresh, <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/homemade-dog-food-with-fish-sweet-potato.html\">home-prepared food<\/a>. While homemade meals give you full control over ingredients, they must be carefully formulated. Without veterinary guidance, these diets can easily become unbalanced or nutrient-deficient.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">JustFoodForDogs (JFFD) offers an ideal solution for pet parents seeking truly premium nutrition. Their meals, including fresh frozen and shelf-stable options, are vet-formulated, nutritionally complete, and made from whole, recognizable ingredients. This way, you can provide fresh, convenient meals in formats that support your dog\u2019s dietary needs without compromising quality.<\/p>\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-about-health-and-veterinary-care\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What About Health and Veterinary Care?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-13750\" src=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/cat-vet-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"veterinarian with dog and cat\" srcset=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/cat-vet-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/cat-vet-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/cat-vet-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/cat-vet.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Routine veterinary care is essential for<a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/preventative-care-for-dogs.html\"> preventing illness<\/a> and monitoring your dog\u2019s lifelong health. Dogs need annual checkups, core vaccinations, parasite testing, and dental evaluations starting from puppyhood. Staying on top of preventive care may dramatically reduce the risk of long-term health issues.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few important preventive measures every dog needs:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Flea and tick control: <\/strong>Parasites can cause irritation, skin problems, and diseases like Lyme disease. Monthly preventives or year-round flea\/tick treatments help protect your dog from exposure.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Dental hygiene and teeth cleaning: <\/strong>Dental health affects your dog\u2019s whole body.<a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/5-ways-to-keep-your-dogs-teeth-clean.html\"> Routine brushing<\/a>, dental chews, and professional cleanings prevent tartar buildup, painful infections, and gum disease.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Regular weight and mobility monitoring:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/departments-centers-and-institutes\/riney-canine-health-center\/canine-health-information\/obesity-and-weight-management-tips\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> Dogs can gain weight easily<\/a>, which strains joints and increases the risk of chronic disease. Regular weight checks and mobility assessments ensure early detection of arthritis, hip issues, or metabolic problems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other things you need to consider include the following topics:<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-spaying-neutering\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Spaying\/Neutering<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s important to plan when to spay or neuter your dog if you don&#8217;t plan on breeding them. For most pet parents, it&#8217;s important to consult with your vet about when you might want to get this done. This is important for their health as it can prevent illness later in life.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aspca.org\/pet-care\/general-pet-care\/spayneuter-your-pet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">According to the ASPCA<\/a>, spaying your female dog prevents problems like uterine infections and helps decrease the incidence of breast tumors, which are malignant in about 50% of dogs. Neutering a male dog helps prevent testicular cancer and prostate problems. It also decreases his desire to roam.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-grooming-and-hygiene\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Grooming and Hygiene<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Grooming is more than a cosmetic routine, but it\u2019s also a vital part of maintaining your <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/dog-skin-care-101.html\">dog\u2019s skin health<\/a>, preventing infections, and reducing shedding. Consistent grooming also helps you detect early signs of skin issues, lumps, or parasites. It&#8217;s important, however, to use the proper tools.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Essential Grooming Tools<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Brush or comb suitable for coat type: Long-haired breeds need daily brushing to prevent mats, while short-haired dogs benefit from weekly brushing to reduce shedding and distribute natural oils.<\/li>\n\n<li>Dog shampoo: Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to maintain skin pH. Human shampoos can cause dryness or irritation.<\/li>\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-clean-a-dogs-wound.html\">Nail clippers or a grinder<\/a>: Regular trims keep nails from becoming painful or overgrown. Dogs who exercise less or live indoors often need more frequent trimming.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-exercise-training-and-mental-stimulation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Exercise, Training, and Mental Stimulation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A well-rounded dog care guide must include exercise and training, two pillars of a dog\u2019s physical and psychological health. Dogs require daily movement to maintain muscle tone, manage weight, and release energy. Equally important is mental stimulation, which prevents boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviors.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Obedience training and socialization help your dog learn good manners, follow commands, and feel comfortable in a variety of environments, building confidence and trust.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here are helpful training and enrichment ideas<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Daily walks or runs: These improve physical health and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.<\/li>\n\n<li>Fetch or tug-of-war: Simple games that burn energy while sharpening coordination and impulse control.<\/li>\n\n<li>Puzzle toys: These challenge your dog\u2019s problem-solving skills and keep them mentally sharp.<\/li>\n\n<li>Scent games: Hide treats or toys around the house or yard to engage your dog\u2019s natural sniffing abilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-about-building-a-strong-bond-with-your-dog\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What About Building a Strong Bond with Your Dog?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-15895\" src=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Westway-Studio-JustFoodForDogs-August-2025-016-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"puppy in womans arms\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.animalhumanesociety.org\/resource\/7-tips-build-strong-bond-your-dog\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A strong bond<\/a> with your dog begins with clear, consistent communication. Dogs read <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/dog-body-language.html\">body language<\/a>, tone of voice, and routine to feel secure and connected. The more you understand your dog\u2019s signals, the easier it becomes to guide their behavior and build mutual trust.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are ways to nurture a loving bond:<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-consistent-routines\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Consistent routines<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dogs thrive on predictability. Feeding, walking, and bedtime routines reduce anxiety and build trust.<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-positive-reinforcement\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Positive reinforcement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, or toys is far<a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/10-common-dog-training-mistakes.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> more effective than punishment<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<h3 id=\"h-shared-activities\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Shared activities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether it&#8217;s hiking, playing, training, or relaxing on the couch, time spent together strengthens your connection.<\/p>\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-about-safety-and-long-term-care\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What About Safety and Long-Term Care?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Part of learning how to take care of a dog is understanding long-term safety and future health considerations.<a href=\"https:\/\/dogagingproject.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> Dogs age faster<\/a> than humans, and their needs change throughout their lives, so it\u2019s important to consider their age and health status to answer the question of what do dogs need at every stage of life.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Senior dogs may require mobility support, softer bedding, joint supplements, easier exercise routines, and eventually end-of-life planning that prioritizes comfort and dignity.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-tell-if-your-dog-is-in-pain.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">keep your dog safe every day<\/a>, consider essential household safety measures:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Secure toxic substances and chemicals out of reach: <\/strong>This includes cleaning supplies, medications, certain foods, and dangerous plants.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Install baby gates or barriers when needed: <\/strong>Helpful for blocking access to stairs, hazardous rooms, or unsafe construction areas.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Remove dangerous elements like exposed cables or glass: <\/strong>Prevent accidents and injury by keeping spaces clean, clutter-free, and dog-friendly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<h2 id=\"h-give-your-dog-the-nutrition-they-deserve\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Give Your Dog the Nutrition They Deserve<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Providing proper care, regular exercise, and lifelong bonding lays the foundation for a thriving dog, but complete, balanced nutrition is at the heart of a healthy, happy life.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/daily-meals\/\"> JustFoodForDogs<\/a> makes it easy to give your pet premium, veterinarian-formulated meals packed with whole ingredients and tailored to support every life stage.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their<a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/daily-meals\/\"> Frozen Meals<\/a> offer fresh, high-quality nutrition ready to thaw and serve, while their<a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/shelf-stable\/\"> Shelf-Stable Meals<\/a> deliver the same expertly crafted nutrition with added convenience and portability. No matter which format you choose, JustFoodForDogs ensures your dog gets the nutrients they need without compromise.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Give your dog the best start and the healthiest future. Explore Frozen Meals and Shelf-Stable Meals today and transform your dog\u2019s nutrition with fresh, vet-formulated ingredients.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-240ca00 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"240ca00\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 data-interaction-id=\"2b60d76\" class=\"e-heading-base e-default-h2\">Frequently asked questions&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fad2b8d elementor-widget elementor-widget-n-accordion\" data-id=\"fad2b8d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;default_state&quot;:&quot;expanded&quot;,&quot;max_items_expended&quot;:&quot;one&quot;,&quot;n_accordion_animation_duration&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;ms&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:400,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"nested-accordion.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-n-accordion\" aria-label=\"Accordion. Open links with Enter or Space, close with Escape, and navigate with Arrow Keys\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-2630\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" open>\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"1\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-2630\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><div class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Should I microchip my dog? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2630\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e01318d e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"e01318d\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b83540b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b83540b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. Microchipping your dog is a permanent form of identification in case your pup ever gets lost. Unlike a collar and ID tag, a microchip can\u2019t fall off. However, a microchip isn\u2019t the same as a GPS tracker. It\u2019s a number you register with pet ID companies. Then, your pet can be scanned by a veterinarian&#8217;s office or a shelter if brought in and reconnected with you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-2631\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"2\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-2631\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><div class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Does my dog need heartworm prevention? <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2631\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-783087c e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"783087c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b34670f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b34670f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm protection for dogs, even in areas with colder winters. Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites, and changing weather patterns make it difficult to predict mosquito season in specific areas.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-2632\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"3\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-2632\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><div class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Do I need to keep my dog on a leash during walks?  <\/div><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2632\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2849b57 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"2849b57\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4e3b755 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4e3b755\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. Walking your dog on a leash is the best way to ensure your dog\u2019s safety, and local leash laws may require it. Training your dog to walk on a leash can prevent them from chasing a squirrel into traffic, approaching other dogs or people, or eating something potentially harmful.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Should I microchip my dog?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. Microchipping your dog is a permanent form of identification in case your pup ever gets lost. Unlike a collar and ID tag, a microchip can\\u2019t fall off. However, a microchip isn\\u2019t the same as a GPS tracker. It\\u2019s a number you register with pet ID companies. Then, your pet can be scanned by a veterinarian&#8217;s office or a shelter if brought in and reconnected with you.\\u00a0\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does my dog need heartworm prevention?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm protection for dogs, even in areas with colder winters. Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites, and changing weather patterns make it difficult to predict mosquito season in specific areas.\\u00a0\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Do I need to keep my dog on a leash during walks?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. Walking your dog on a leash is the best way to ensure your dog\\u2019s safety, and local leash laws may require it. Training your dog to walk on a leash can prevent them from chasing a squirrel into traffic, approaching other dogs or people, or eating something potentially harmful.\\u00a0\"}}]}<\/script>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Bringing home a new dog is one of life\u2019s biggest joys. Whether you\u2019ve adopted a playful puppy, rescued an adult dog, or welcomed a senior companion, the excitement of becoming a pet parent is unmatched. But behind every wagging tail and warm cuddle is a set of responsibilities that ensure your dog lives a long, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":15909,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","_jffd_show_updated":"1","footnotes":"","_ppma_block_editor_authors":""},"categories":[71],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[280],"class_list":["post-15918","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lifestyle"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.8 (Yoast SEO v28.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Take Care of a Dog: Tips for Pet Parents | JustFoodforDogs Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to take care of a dog with 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