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How To Be a Good Dog Owner
Dogs give their human owners all of their love and loyalty. They are man’s best friend for good reason. So, if you are thinking about getting a dog it is important that you are prepared for responsible pet ownership and reward the dog with love and good care.
As the dog’s owner, friend and advocate there are certain things that you must do for the dog’s own welfare. Just as a parent must act in the best interest of a child, a dog owner must act in the best interest of the dog. A dog owner’s responsibilities include:
• Feeding the dog a nutritious diet. Your dog may prefer to eat a steady diet of hamburgers but it is your responsibility to see that he or she is eating a well balanced diet.
• Taking the dog for regular vet visits. Admittedly, this is no fun for anyone. However, it is essential for your dog’s health and well being. All dogs should be seen at least annually for a physical and required vaccinations. Some dogs may need to be seen more often at your vet’s suggestion.
• Properly training your dog. This includes both obedience training and housebreaking. An untrained dog creates much tension for the family and is unhappy itself. You can prevent this by properly training your pet.
• Exercising the dog. Most dogs need daily exercise. Some smaller breeds may get enough by chasing a ball inside while others need long walks or room to run outside. If you are not comfortable being outside in inclement weather or when you are ill then you should have an enclosed area for your pet to play in outside.
• Playing with your dog. Dogs crave entertainment and socialization. The vast majority of their entertainment comes from their owner and the owner’s family. So, be sure that you have safe dog toys available and make the time to play with your dog regularly.
• Meeting all of the dog’s physical needs. Even if you work long hours or are going on vacation, your dog will need to eat and relieve itself regularly. It is your responsibility to arrange for someone to care for your dog when you cannot.
• Breed responsibly. If you choose not to neuter or spay your dog then you must be willing to be responsible for any puppies that result from your decision. That includes taking care of the medical needs of the mother dog and young puppies as well as finding good homes for the puppies.
Above all, it is your responsibility to love your dog and to treat the dog kindly. Dogs are social animals who want to be part of a family. So, if you choose to add a dog to your own family then be sure to give him or the love, attention and devotion that he or she is sure to give you. Although dog ownership is a lot of work, the benefits far outweigh the costs.
Written by Ryan Matthews of Oh My Dog Supplies - your source for sturdy wooden dog steps
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