Becoming a dog owner isn’t a decision to be made rashly or spontaneously. Taking this position requires thought, planning, and commitment. The fact that your dog will rely on you for his or her entire well-being, means you will play a crucial role every single day. Here is a list of 10 ways to be a responsible dog owner.
10 Ways to Be A Responsible Dog Owner
Consider Your Lifestyle
When deciding to be a responsible dog owner, you need to consider your lifestyle. If you are mostly an indoors person, bringing home an outdoorsy breed might not work for both of you. If you are constantly busy, a dog that thrives on affection may miss out on this. Consider researching types of dog breeds and their personalities that will complement your lifestyle.
Provide Necessities
Once you have your dog in your home, he or she has basic needs to be met. These include a balanced diet, hydration, shelter, and protection.
Groom Regularly
Regular grooming is essential for your dog’s wellness. A dog needs to be bathed, nails clipped, ear-build-up removed, have its fur-trimmed, moisturized, and brushed. A grooming schedule can be created or one can schedule with a professional groomer.
Encourage Activity
A dog requires an active life for a quality life. Health benefits of exercising for a dog include a strong heart, a healthy immune system, healthy joints, and reduced risk of depression. Being a responsible dog owner means including activity in a daily routine. This could be in the form of walks, hikes, and active play.
Provide Training
Training your dog helps him or her develop character, manners and to learn how to navigate different life scenarios. You can also reach out to professional trainers to help with the process.
Schedule Vet Appointments
A vet can identify ailments and possibly prevent these from becoming serious conditions. If you identify anything amiss with your dog, a vet can diagnose any health-related problems and provide solutions.
Clean Up
Your dog is bound to make a mess whether in the home or outdoors. He or she may be learning how to potty meaning the mess has to be cleared for hygiene purposes. Dogs may also shed fur around the house which will need vacuuming.
Offer Healthy Treats
Provide your dog healthy treats or make some homemade treats you can share with your dog. You can include these treats into your training or play sessions
Play With Your Dog
Playing with your dog makes him or her feel appreciated, loved, cared for, and important. You can get creative with dog toys or outdoor games. What matters most isn’t necessarily the game that is played, but the bond formed through play with you.
Tag your Dog
A dog tag is crucial if your dog gets lost or stolen. It may be easier to trace him or her in such an unfortunate situation if he or she has an identifier.
Happy Bonding
All responsibilities that come with having a dog encourage bonding. Once you have decided to commit to having a dog, these responsibilities become enjoyable activities to look forward to.
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