<center><p><img src="http://imgtank.online/images/dog-1194087_1280.jpg" /></p></center><p>Your dog is always there for you. No matter what, a dog will do what it takes to make sure you are alright. He always looks out for you, always wants your attention, and is always happy with you. Shouldn&#39;t you see what you can do for him? Here are some tips to help you be a great owner for your dog.</p>

<p>Avoid insisting that your dog socialize nicely with every other passing dog. Experts recommend that your dog be able to tolerate introductions through sniffing and eying with another animal, but say forcing the issue can create problems. Accept your dog&#39;s lead when meeting and greeting other animals and allow for natural interaction.</p>

<p>If you are thinking of getting a new dog for your family, be sure you are prepared for this commitment. Smaller dogs will require at least a 14-16 year commitment, and larger dogs will require at least 10 years. If you are not prepared to own the dog for its entire life, then do not choose a dog as a pet.</p>

<p>If your vet gives you medication to take home and administer to your dog, be sure and ask for ideas on getting him to swallow it. Dogs differ in their tolerance of pills and badly-flavored liquids, so have a few tricks up your sleeve in case he resists. Getting a dog to take medicine is important, but often challenging.</p>

<p>If your dog has long hair, make sure to take the time to trim the fur around his feet. If you allow your dog&#39;s hair to grow too long, they can get things stuck in their fur. This could lead to injuries between the pads of the feet and around the nails.</p>

<p>It is very important for you to keep your dog&#39;s ears clean. Keeping the inside of the ears clean will help prevent infections of the ear. This is also a good time for you to inspect the ear for fleas, ticks and any other pests that could have made your dog&#39;s ear home.</p>

<p>In order to make sure that your dog is healthy, be sure to allow it to have access to clean water at all times during the day. Just like with all living beings, water is one of the most important components. The only exception would be that you would want to keep water from a puppy for three hours before bedtime.</p>

<p>Give your dog a great place to sleep. Every dog needs a bed to call his own that is temperature controlled and comfortable. If not, the dog may alternate sleeping locations between undesirable locations, such as your sofa when you&#39;re not watching. A bed also gives him a great sense of security and belonging.</p>

<p>If your veterinarian prescribes medication or special care for your pet, make sure you follow their instructions to the letter. For instance, your dog may need a cone and not like it, but your vet prescribed it for a reason. You will leave your dog open to serious health problems down the line if you do not follow the advice from your vet for the health of your dog.</p>

<p>Dogs, like humans, can develop health problems, and because of this they should be taken to see their vet at least once eat year. This can help to diagnosis any health issues early on, reducing both the extremity of the illness and the cost to fix it. Do whatever you can to follow this rule of thumb strictly.</p>

<p>The pads of your dog&#39;s feet can become dry and cracked, so make sure that you moisturize them regularly. Ask your veterinarian for advice on which product to use. Avoid using moisturizers that are intended for humans, because they can make the pads too soft and your dog may get hurt.</p>

<p>It is essential that you get your dog vaccinated. Vaccinations will protect your dog from different types of illness and diseases. Most vaccinations are done at your dogs yearly check-up. Your vet can explain what each vaccination is for. The rabies vaccine is required by law in many different states.</p>

<p>When you are enjoying a snack, you might be tempted to share a little with your dog. This is okay with certain foods, but some things are very bad for a dog. Grapes and chocolate should never be given to canines. They can cause illnesses and, in some cases, even death, and your dog will not benefit by receiving them.</p>

<p>A great way to have some company on your car rides is to take your dog with you. Most dogs enjoy riding in the car. Riding in the car is also a good place to practice some training exercises with your pet as well. You can practice "stay" when the dog enters and exits the vehicle. Always remember to leave windows down because heat from a closed car can kill the dog.</p>

<p>Your dog does his best to make sure you are happy. There can be no question that he places you above anyone else. That&#39;s why this article was written, to make sure that you return the favor. Use the tips laid out here to help you to be the kind of owner your dog deserves.</p>