You embrace your dog as one of your most beloved family members. He’s earned a spot on the bed at night, gets gifts on his birthday, makes you laugh with his silly antics, and sits close when you’re sad or you’re sick.
Dogs provide unconditional love. And, they deserve a responsible dog owner in return.
Here are five tips to being a responsible dog owner:
#1. Make training a priority
Ahhh…you may have made that very sound as you watched a tiny ball of fluff, just a little puppy, jumping on everyone and grabbing for their shoe strings. How could anything a puppy does not be one of the most adorable things you’ve ever seen? Fast forward a few months or years. That little ball of fluff is now 20, 30, or maybe even 50 or more pounds. Getting jumped on isn’t quite the same and having to replace shoelaces every week isn’t cute or funny anymore. Make training a priority from puppyhood to ensure your puppy blossoms into a well-behaved (and still cute) dog.
#2. Clean up after your dog
Oops. You’ve literally stepped in it now. We’ve all been there: stepped in a big pile left by a dog. Responsible dog owners clean up after their dogs rather than leaving the mess for an innocent bystander to step in.
#3. Feed your friend high quality food
A healthy dog is a happy dog. Imagine if you ate unhealthy, cheap food every day. You likely won’t be as healthy as if you consume fresh fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water. Your dog needs the same nutritious foods. Feeding your dog a high quality, veterinarian recommended dog food will help contribute to a longer life.
#4.Ensure your pup gets plenty of socialisation
Puppies are much like little kids. They need to learn how to be around other animals and how to socialise with both animals and people. Make sure your pooch gets plenty of socialisation whether you take him to the dog park a couple of times a week or you take him for walks every day.
#5. Shower your pooch with lots of love
The most treasured gift you can give your beloved pup is plenty of love and affection. Spend as much time with your best friend as you can. And, keep that saying in mind, “Your dog might be part of your life but you are his whole life.”
