There are many kinds of dogs and many kinds of families. Building a rewarding relationship between yourself and your dog is simply a matter of learning how to care for your canine companion in a responsible manner. Read on to learn what it takes to care for your dog the right way.

Don't allow your dog to leave your property without being on a leash even if you think your dog is well behaved. Dogs are easily distracted by other animals, cars, and kids, so always make sure to keep your dog on a leash for his own safety. Your dog's actions and safety is your responsibility.

Make sure that your home is safe for your dog. This should be done before the dog shows up at your home. Make sure anything toxic is put up. Some plants can be lethal, so move them out of your dog's reach.

Be sure to praise your dog thoroughly any time it behaves correctly, such as sitting when it is time to put their leash on. This will show your dog that the behavior he is exhibiting is just what you are looking for. This will teach the dog that when they do what you wish, they'll get praised.

Rawhide bones are the best options for your dog. Real bones can chip and become lodged in harmful place such as the digestive tract. It has been proven that rawhide is healthy for your dogs teeth, therefore avoid giving your dog natural meat bones.

If you are going to get a dog from the shelter, make a appointment with the vet. Shelter dogs could be sick or exposed to different viruses. You need to be sure that you get your animal all of the shots it needs prior to bringing it home.

Dedicate enough time to correcting bad behavior right away. The longer you ignore it, the more difficult it will be to correct it later, and the consequences could be dire. If your dog is not under control, he could end up hurting you or someone else.

Take the time to train your dog on a leash. Your dog has to understand the "heel" command and respond to it by walking beside you, not ahead of or in back of you. Walking this way will help to keep your pet safe, and it will make it easier for you to enjoy walks too. By having your dog understand this command, it will be very helpful for most situations.

ID your pet. It's a good idea to fit your dog with a sturdy collar equipped with ID tags. The tag needs to have your name and phone number on it. You may also want to install a micro-chip into your dog.

If you think you want a dog, but are not sure if you are ready for the commitment involved, consider becoming a foster home. Many homeless and abused animals are waiting in shelters for someone to adopt them and with over-crowding, resources are slim. Fostering will help you become adapted to the life of a pet owner, and you will be making a difference in the life of a dog at the same time!

You should be an activist for your dog. Keep track of local laws which affect dog owners. Many times new, overly-restrictive ordinances have incredibly broad impacts when they're only intended to affect a tiny minority of pet owners. Speak up for the rights of responsible dog owners everywhere by contacting local officials.

Dogs can be wonderful pets. You will have a better relationship with them if you take the time to learn more. The advice above has given you a wealth of knowledge, and if you take advantage of it, you and your pet can live in harmony. The term "man's best friend" will soon apply to your dog!