9 Basic Responsibilities of a Dog Owner
September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month, and it's the perfect time to think about what being a responsible dog owner means.
Responsible dog ownership is more than just loving your doggy, providing home, food, and freshwater. It is also about health and prevention.
The 9 Pillars of Responsible Dog Ownership To Keep in Mind
#1 Give Them a "Furever" Loving Home
Getting a dog is a lifelong commitment, and every dog owner should be aware of its importance. Providing a safe environment for their entire lives is one of the basic needs you have to take care of. Remember that a safe dog is a happy dog.
#2 Feed Them Right
Sometimes it's hard to deal with those starving eyes, but let's analyze it! How many calories should your pet eat each day to maintain a healthy weight? In many cases, it is far less than many dogs daily eats. More than half of household pets are significantly overweight or obese, so you must understand your dog's proper body weight and the portion size your dog should eat each day. Overfeeding hurts your dog's health and can shorten his or her life. Does your dog seem hungry all the time, no matter how much food they eat? If the behavior is new, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. It can be a sign of underlying health issues.
#3 Exercise Them Enough
Responsible dog ownership includes providing your pet with plenty of exercise. Exercise helps dogs maintain a proper weight, which prevents diseases such as diabetes, kidney failure, and obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight results in a longer lifespan as well as more energy and fewer veterinary bills.
#4 Check On Them Regularly
Many diseases show warning signs long before the illness becomes unmanageable. Early recognition can save your dog's life. However, to be able to recognize abnormal behavior, dog parents have to know what is normal first.
The basic dog health check should be performed monthly to track potential changes. The health checklist for your pup and how to do a monthly at-home health check of your dog can be found here.
#5 Understand Them and Socialize Them
As well as humans, dogs need a social life too. The socialization process should start very early, as the older the dog is, the slower the socialization can be. Why is it essential to socialize your dog? The lack of socialization can create fearfulness and unwanted behavior. Socialized pups are happier and easier to handle.
#6 Microchip Them
Every year many dogs get lost, and some of them never find their way home. Having your dog microchipped and registered is the best way to ensure you will be reunited with your missing pet. In many countries, it is already mandatory for dog parents to have their pets microchipped. Read the fast facts about microchipping your dog to learn more.
#7 Train Them Well
Training is an essential part of responsible dog ownership. Your dog will not only be more manageable, but training is also a great way how to socialize your pup. What are the 5 basic dog commands you should teach your dog? Continue reading here.
#8 Clean up After Them
Picking up after your dog is one of the most essential dog owner etiquette and responsibility, especially in public places. Firstly, you do not want anyone to step into your pup's waste. Secondly, picking up after your dog can help prevent the spread of diseases and parasites.
#9 Don't Ignore Annual Check-ups and Keep Their Vaccinations Up-To-Date
Prevention is the key to a healthy life not only for humans but for their dogs as well. Preventive care includes annual check-ups, vaccinations, deworming, regular tick or flea treatment, and the right dental care. Providing proper preventive care can help your dog live a longer and healthier life.
It's so easy to lose track of things like vaccination, weight check, calorie count, check-ups, and whether your dog had enough exercise in this fast-paced world. Both exercise and nutrition are tricky to monitor yourself, so we decided to create a solution – Actijoy WiFi Food & Water Bowl and Actijoy Health & Activity Tracker to help you on your way to responsible dog ownership.
