Become a good dog owner: The decision to add a dog to your family is a serious responsibility that requires careful consideration and planning. Dogs not only bring joy and love to your home, they also need proper care, attention and dedication to live a happy and fulfilling life.
In this article, we’ll look at what it takes to be a good dog owner. From the time you dedicate to your furry friends, to financial commitments, to choosing the right dog for your living situation, we’ll show you step-by-step how to give your dog the best home possible. Your journey to responsible dog ownership begins here. Embark on this challenging journey with us.
Before you make the decision to get a new dog, consider the following points:
Is there someone at home during the day?
A dog, especially a puppy, should not be left alone for more than a few hours. If you work 9 to 5, don’t get a dog unless you can make satisfactory arrangements with a friend to let the dog out.
What about vacations?
It is sad to say that more dogs are killed during the vacation season than any other time. If you don’t have a helpful family to care for your dog, be prepared for the cost of dog boarding. Due to increased operating costs, reputable boarding facilities now have to charge higher fees – don’t forget to book ahead of time.
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Are you prepared for the costs of dog ownership?
This includes not only the cost of food and dog boarding during the vacations, but also the cost of vaccinations and possible veterinary expenses in case of illness. A dog, like a child, can get sick suddenly and unexpectedly, so be prepared for all eventualities. Take out pet insurance for peace of mind.
Exercise
To stay healthy and happy, dogs need daily exercise, and that means a good run in a field or park or a game of ball, not just a walk to the stores on a leash. If you love your dog, be prepared to sacrifice some free time every day, no matter what the weather. If you can’t give a dog that kind of exercise, consider giving an older dog a home. Your local shelter may have just the right one for you.
Family circumstances
Dogs and children usually love each other and get along well, but don’t make the mistake of buying a young puppy for a small child. Young children can be very cruel, and a puppy can be badly mistreated. Even worse, a young puppy’s bones can easily break if a child treats it like a toy. Wait until the children are older and a little more responsible.
Care
If you don’t have much time to spare, choose a dog with a smooth or wiry coat that needs little attention to stay neat. Dogs with long and curly coats look nice, but need daily grooming to stay that way. Poodles need regular trimming as well as grooming. If you are unable to do so, be prepared for additional costs.
