When you're taking your dog for a walk and there's a communal water bowl outside the neighborhood coffee shop, have you ever wondered if it was safe for your pet to take a drink? According to the American Kennel Club, if your dog is healthy, it should be just fine. The AKC says most canine diseases are passed through coughing, sneezing and other ways not involving a dog's mouth. Just be sure the water looks fresh and clean before he laps it up.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When shopping for dog food, you might think a "prime cut" of meat in the ingredients would be a premium step up for him. But the reality is, prime cuts -- the kind of meat meant for human consumption, like chicken breasts -- are actually less nutritious than meat byproducts like organ meats. So, to give your dog the best and most nutritious meal, look for "food-grade meat byproducts" when shopping. He'll thank you for it!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It's a common fact that white vinegar is a mild acid that works as a very effective deodorizer. One area that can and should be deodorized is the inside of your dryer. Just think: A foul-smelling dryer can leave odors in your newly washed clothes. To disinfect your dryer, just dip a few clean hand towels in white vinegar. Drop them in the dryer and let them turn for a few minutes. Then open the door and let the steamy vinegar do its job.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION