Know your responsibility
As a dog owner, you’re responsible for your pet’s safety, health, well-being, training, exercise, and quality of life. It’s easy to take care of a dog by following basic rules. Learn how to do it right with these tips! Knowing what is expected of you is essential to take proper care of a dog. Here are some guidelines on what responsibilities come with owning one
Grooming is essential
While dogs may be ready to run or jump into your arms at a moment’s notice, they need regular grooming to keep their coats shiny and healthy. The more time you spend caring for your dog in other ways, too—keeping up with ear cleaning, nail trimming, baths, and exercise—the happier both of you will be. Dogs love routine as much as humans do! So make sure you have one (and stick to it). For example, every day at 4 p.m., give your pup a five-minute belly rub while watching your favorite show together.
Know your pooch!
Most people want to be dog owners at some point in their lives. It’s a noble cause, sure—especially if you plan on having a furry companion for many years to come. But owning a dog is a commitment that requires tons of care and responsibility. Before you adopt your new pup, make sure you’re ready for all that comes with pet ownership. If you think it might be too much work, don’t worry! There are plenty of animals out there looking for homes right now. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by everything involved in taking care of a dog, consider adopting from an animal shelter or rescue group instead. You can find information about local shelters online or by asking friends and family members who have pets where they got them from.
Where should you keep your pet?
Many people decide to keep their pets indoors, but those who do should follow a few rules. If you have a dog that enjoys excursions outside, make sure he stays on your property; don’t let him run loose. If you have an indoor pet that likes to poke around in your yard or garden, be mindful of what (and where) he’s nosing into—you don’t want him eating things he shouldn’t! Additionally, it’s important to take care of your pet by providing him with fresh water at all times. You can also invest in a water fountain for your cat or dog if you find they tend to play with running water from faucets.
Know their dietary needs
Feeding your dog right is a must for their overall health. Dogs have specific nutritional needs, so consult with your vet before making any changes to their diet. These steps will help you determine which foods are best for your pup 1) Take your dog’s age into consideration: Puppies (under one-year-old) need more calories than adult dogs because they’re still growing. Adult dogs (one year or older) require fewer calories than puppies but still need enough energy to sustain their active lifestyles. 2) Consider his breed: Some breeds—such as Greyhounds—are naturally leaner than others; if you own one of these breeds, it may be easier to maintain his weight.
Get involved in activities with them
Dogs aren’t a one-man show. They need to socialize, too. So when you can’t make it home for dinner, take your pooch to doggy daycare. When you come home from work or school, let him out to play or take him on a long walk so he doesn’t spend all his time alone in his crate while you’re away. Dogs thrive on love and companionship, just like humans do!
Train them properly
It’s never too early to start training your dog. There are basic things you can do while they’re still puppies that will give them a good foundation for when they get older. If you don’t want them running off with your slippers or eating plants, teach them from an early age what is and isn’t OK to eat—or chew on. The same goes for walking on a leash: You should take your puppy out in public as soon as possible so it gets used to being around other people and dogs. This way, if you ever need to walk it in public, you won’t be afraid of people or new environments.
Find the love and joy
By showing your dog love, you are giving them a reason to live. They need to feel loved and protected at all times. Give them food, water, shelter, and exercise if you really want to see a change in their behavior. It is also important that they have plenty of toys to play with too as they are always very entertaining. These can come in handy when you are not around as well because they will keep them preoccupied while they await your return.
Treat them well every day, every week, every month, and all year long
A dog should never be neglected, even when you are busy at work. They will understand that you don’t have enough time to walk them on any given day, but they need to spend some quality time with you every day. Dogs thrive off attention so if they do not get attention then they start getting into trouble and can cause a lot of damage to your property or worse – someone else’s!
