We all love our furry little puppers. But there are many things to keep in mind to ensure they are as healthy and happy as can be. We’ve come up with 14 useful tips and tricks to best care for your best friend.

1. Provide proper nutrition: Feeding your dog a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial to their overall health and well-being. Choose a high-quality dog food that meets their specific age, size, and activity level needs. Avoid table scraps and choose treats that are specifically formulated for dogs.

2. Keep your dog hydrated: Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Keep their water bowl full and consider investing in a water fountain to encourage them to drink more.

3. Practice good dental hygiene: Just like humans, dogs need to have their teeth brushed and gums cared for to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs, or try using dental wipes or gel.

4. Groom your dog regularly: Regular grooming helps to keep your dog clean and healthy, and also helps to strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Brush your dog’s coat to remove tangles and mats, and trim their nails to prevent them from getting too long.

5. Exercise your dog regularly: Exercise is important for all dogs, as it helps to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Take your dog for walks, runs, or play games with them to provide them with the exercise they need.

6. Socialize your dog: Socialization is the process of exposing your dog to a variety of people, places, and experiences in a positive and controlled way. This helps to ensure that your dog is well-rounded and comfortable in different situations.

7. Train your dog: Training your dog helps to establish a clear set of rules and boundaries, and also helps to strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Use positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise, to encourage good behavior.

8. Spay or neuter your dog: Spaying or neutering your dog not only helps to control the pet population, but it also has a number of health benefits for your dog. Spayed and neutered dogs are less likely to develop certain types of cancer and may have a longer lifespan.

9. Keep your dog up-to-date on vaccinations: Vaccinations protect your dog from a variety of serious and potentially fatal diseases. Make sure your dog is up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations, and discuss your dog’s specific vaccine needs with your veterinarian.

10. Protect your dog from parasites: Parasites, such as fleas and ticks, can be harmful to your dog’s health. Use preventative measures, such as topical medications and collars, to protect your dog from these pests.

11. Protect your dog from extreme temperatures: Dogs are susceptible to heatstroke and frostbite, so it’s important to protect them from extreme temperatures. Keep your dog indoors during extreme heat or cold, and make sure they have access to shade and water when outside.

12. Keep your dog safe at home: Keep your dog safe at home by making sure they are properly contained. Use a leash when walking your dog and make sure they are not left alone in a fenced yard without supervision.

13. Keep your dog safe in the car: Keep your dog safe in the car by using a crate or a pet seatbelt. Never leave your dog alone in a parked car, as temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels.

14. Keep your dog safe around strangers: Not all people are comfortable around dogs, and it’s important to respect their boundaries. Keep your dog on a leash when around strangers and teach them to “sit” and “stay” on command.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pet dog is happy, healthy, and well-cared for. It’s important to remember that every dog is different and may have unique needs, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian and pay attention to your dog’s behavior and well-being to ensure you are meeting their needs.