We all want what is best for our pets but sometimes we unknowingly do more harm than good.  Here you will find what I consider to be the top 5 misconceptions about dog care and what you can do to change your do care practices.

#1 – Homemade Diets Such As Raw Diets Are Hazardous To Your Pet

This is only true if you feed your dog contaminated raw food or an imbalanced diet. If the homemade meal is nutritious, balanced, and properly prepared, your dog will be better off feeding on this type of diet compared to commercialized dog food.  If feeding raw chicken to your dog does not appeal to you, then home cooking should be considered.  It’s the only way to be sure what ingredients are in your dog’s food.

#2 – Frequent Baths Will Result In A Damaged Coat And Dry Skin

This is only possible if you are using soaps and shampoos that were meant for people and not for dogs. In truth, bathing frequently will treat various skin problems and prevent them as well. Another advantage of bathing frequently is that there is less likelihood for infections to develop.

#3 – Anesthesia Puts Older Dogs At More Risk

There is no truth in this at all. Age has nothing to do with anesthetics causing harm to a dog’s health or causing death. It all depends on how healthy the dog is no matter what the age. As long as the right amount and agent is used, and if the dog is monitored at all times during the procedure, the risks are minimized. In fact, since older dogs are more prone to infections and diseases, it is more likely that they will need to undergo a procedure that requires anesthetics. Just as long as an experienced professional is administering the procedure, there will be less chance of risks to your dog’s health.

#4 – Dental Problems Pose No Risks

Canine dental problems should never be taken for granted. These problems should be treated immediately for they cause an assortment of other problems like diabetes, liver disorders, kidney problems, and heart diseases. In any case these diseases can very well be fatal to your dog.

Whenever you notice your dog is eating less, sluggish, and easily irritated, it is could be that your dog is suffering from a dental problem. You will be surprised how immediate the change will be in your dog’s behavior soon after the problem is treated.

#5 – Annual Vaccinations Are Needed

It is a big misconception that your dog needs annual or semi-annual vaccinations. There has been a study conducted that revealed that dogs do not need frequent vaccinations. In truth, the vaccinations available on the market today are so potent that they buildup the immune system for a span of several years and sometimes an entire lifetime.

An effective method of knowing what vaccine is ideal for your dog is through a titer test. By using a titer test, you will be able to determine if your dog needs a particular vaccine or if he or she needs any at all.

It is important to know the true facts to in dog care. Knowing fact from fiction is essential in improving your dog’s health and prolonging your dog’s life.