5 Common Dog Care Mistakes You’re Making and How to Fix Them

Even though we love our pets, we occasionally make mistakes when it comes to caring for them. We've all been there, so don't worry! A hectic life with a four-legged friend that demands care, love, and attention can make being a dog parent difficult. 

But you know what? Once you are aware of them, it is very simple to correct the majority of common mistakes made by dog owners. But first, let's go over some of these faults and, more importantly, how to  improve on them. 

 1. Little to no exercise

Let's face it, life can get hectic, making it tempting to skip a few walks. However, dogs require frequent exercise to remain content and healthy, just like humans do. In actuality, dogs that don't exercise may gain weight, exhibit behavioral problems, or even experience anxiety. However, a lot of pet owners are unaware that their dog isn't exercising enough.

How can you fix this? Make the effort to establish a regular exercise routine for your dog. It doesn't have to be difficult; tug-of-war, retrieving, or even just taking regular walks can be quite beneficial. Consistency is crucial. Try scheduling at least 15 to 30 minutes twice a day for some activity if your calendar is hectic. You can even multitask by hiking or jogging with your dog! 

Fun Tip: Consider trying new activities like agility training or even a trip to open fields. It’ll be fun for both of you!

2. Feeding Them “Human Food” Too Often

Those adorable puppy-dog eyes during meals! Sharing food is difficult to avoid, but giving your dog too much "people food" might be bad for their health. In addition to causing weight gain, many meals that are OK for humans can be poisonous to dogs.

How can you fix this? Try providing healthier dog-friendly snacks instead of sharing meals. The majority of dogs enjoy simply cooked chicken, carrots, and blueberries. Additionally, be sure to only feed your dog food that has been properly prepared to meet their nutritional demands.

Did You Know? Chocolate, onions, and grapes are very harmful to dogs. Don't put these on the menu! Instead, use a high-quality dog snack if you still want to treat your dog. 

3. Skipping Regular Vet Visits

Some pet owners put off going to the veterinarian until their dog is ill. However, the general health of your dog depends on routine veterinary examinations. Even before symptoms appear, these visits aid in the early detection of any health problems.

How can you fix this? Make sure your dog sees a veterinarian at least once a year, and twice a year if they are elderly. Your veterinarian will examine your dog's teeth, weight, and general health during these visits. Remember that parasite prevention treatments and immunizations are equally crucial for your dog's health and safety.

Bonus Tip: If your dog is anxious about visiting the veterinarian, consider setting up "happy visits" in which they visit the veterinarian without being examined. This can lessen their nervousness and help them adjust to their surroundings.

4. Neglecting Mental Stimulation

Dogs aren’t just physical creatures—they need mental stimulation too. Without it, dogs can become bored, which often leads to destructive behavior like chewing up furniture or excessive barking. This is particularly true for intelligent breeds like Border Collies, Poodles, and German Shepherds, but really, all dogs need a little brain workout.

What’s the Fix? Incorporate brain games into your dog’s routine. Puzzle toys, interactive feeders, and games of hide-and-seek are fantastic ways to keep your dog mentally engaged. Even teaching new tricks or commands can provide much-needed stimulation. You don’t have to overthink it—sometimes just letting your dog sniff around during walks can do the trick!

Pro Tip: Try rotating toys to keep things fresh and interesting. A toy that’s “new” after a week in the toy bin will excite them all over again!

5. Not Socializing Your Dog Properly

Socialization is key to raising a well-adjusted dog, but some pet parents overlook this important step. Poorly socialized dogs can become fearful or aggressive towards other animals or people, which makes walks and outings stressful instead of enjoyable.

What’s the Fix? Start socializing your dog early, but don’t worry if your dog is older—it’s never too late to start! Expose your dog to different people, environments, and other dogs in a controlled and positive way. Dog parks, training classes, or even arranging playdates with other friendly dogs can be great for this. The more they experience, the more confident and well-behaved they’ll be.

Important Note: If your dog shows signs of fear or aggression, take it slow. Gradually introduce new experiences at your dog’s pace, and consider working with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist if needed.

There you have it—five common dog care mistakes and how you can fix them. Don’t feel bad if you’ve made some of these mistakes in the past; we’ve all been there. The good news is that most of these issues are easy to address with just a few small adjustments. 

Whether it’s giving your dog a little more exercise, offering healthier snacks, or spending some time on mental games, these changes will help your dog live a happier, healthier life. And that’s what we all want, right?

So, the next time you look at your dog’s wagging tail, you’ll know you’re doing everything you can to be the best pet parent possible!

If you’re looking for a safe and fun place for your dog to stay while you’re away, check out our home away from home care services at Cuddlie Pets! We provide plenty of exercise, and mental stimulation, and love to make sure your dog feels right at home. Visit our website for more details!