Pet parenting is trending in the US, with dogs being the favorites. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the numbers have increased steadily over the years. From 1996 to 2024, the dog population in the country witnessed a surge from 52.9 million to 89.7 million.
For a new dog parent, welcoming a canine companion is rewarding and overwhelming at the same time. Expect a set of responsibilities in this new role, particularly regarding overall care and hygiene. Additionally, first-timers are prone to some mistakes that can negatively impact their pet’s health.
We will list the dog care blunders you must avoid as a newbie to make the journey smooth and effortless.
1. Neglecting Regular Grooming
Regular grooming should be on top of your canine care checklist. However, the frequency may vary according to breed. Experts recommend a once-a-week brushing routine for short-haired canines. Daily brushing is required for medium and long-haired pets. Dogs with thick undercoats also require daily brushing, regardless of the length of their coats.
Many new dog owners underestimate the importance of brushing their dog’s coat. This helps remove debris, dirt, and loose fur. Problems like matting, skin irritations, and even infection may surface if you fail to establish a grooming routine. Also, include regular bathing and nail trimming in the routine.
2. Ignoring Dental Care
WebMD highlights the importance of canine dental care, stating how it can keep your pet healthy and happy over the years. Proper dental can prevent bad breath, plaque buildup, and gum disease. Further, it reduces the risk of abscessed and infected teeth and oral tumors down the line.
Ignoring dental health is a mistake new dog parents should steer clear of. No matter how difficult it sounds, you must brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Use toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs. Also, provide your canine buddy with dental chews or toys as chewing helps scrape plaque from its teeth.
3. Overlooking Poop Cleanup
Cleaning up after your dog may seem like the most challenging part of pet parenting. According to Fox 31, one in three Gen Z Americans fail to fulfill this responsibility. This was found in a survey conducted to learn about the dirtiest jobs.
Failing to pick up dog waste does more than create an unpleasant environment. It poses health risks to your pet, family, and the community. Scoop Soldier notes that dog feces can harbor parasites, bacteria, and viruses that may cause disease in animals and even humans. Leaving poop in your yard can also attract pests.
The good thing is that residential pet waste removal services are available across the country. You can hire experts to do the heavy lifting if it seems like too much work as a new pet parent. In fact, it makes sense even for the seasoned ones.
4. Not Paying Attention to Ear Care
Ear care is something that can be easily missed when it comes to dog hygiene and health. Unfortunately, ear infections are common in dogs. Breeds with floppy ears or pets that spend a lot of time outdoors are the most vulnerable. New dog parents often forget to check and clean their pet’s ears regularly.
You can avoid this mistake by consciously inspecting your dog’s ears at least once a week. Look for dirt or wax buildup. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner and cotton balls for regular cleaning and care. Remember not to go too deep into the ear canal as you may hurt or injure the delicate parts of your pet’s ears.
5. Using Chemical Cleaning Products
Good hygiene is about keeping your dog’s living space clean. However, the wrong cleaning products can be the worst mistake for new pet parents. Chemical cleaning products can be toxic to dogs.
According to PetMD, formaldehyde, ammonia, bleach, chlorine, and isopropyl alcohol are the worst culprits. These harsh chemicals can harm your canine companion through contact or ingestion. The best solution is to switch to pet-safe cleaning alternatives such as vinegar or baking soda. These ingredients are effective and non-toxic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If My Dog Has Bad Breath?
If your dog has bad breath, dental issues or other health problems may surface sooner rather than later. You must consult your veterinarian to get a proper checkup and treatment for your furball. As a proactive measure, brush your dog’s teeth regularly and provide dental chews designed for oral health.
Why Should You Ensure a Clean Backyard As a Dog Parent?
A clean backyard is not just about curb appeal when you have a dog in your family. If there is poop in your backyard, your furry companion and family members may be at risk. Pet poop can be a breeding ground for pathogens, so it should not be in your backyard. Moreover, it can pollute your soil and plants.
What Are Some Signs of Ear Infection in Dogs?
Common signs of ear infection in dogs include head shaking, scratching or pawing around the ears, and swelling and redness around them. There may also be brown, yellow, or bloody discharge from your pet’s ear. Watch out for foul odor as well.
New dog parents should be aware of these common hygiene mistakes and take proactive steps to ensure proper care. Avoiding them can help you create a healthier environment for your furry companions. Adopt them to ensure responsible pet ownership that contributes to your pet’s overall well-being.
