Everyone would like to believe they are a responsible dog owner. After all, you provide the basics which include food and shelter.
Unfortunately, that's not enough. Although good nutrition and a warm and inviting place to live is important, there's so much more to owning a dog. Owning a dog is not just a privilege – it's a responsibility. It is not a commitment you should enter into lightly because it involves a large financial and emotional obligation.
In honor of September being AKC Responsible Dog Owner Month, Bark Busters would like to offer you some tips for being the best dog owner you can possibly be:
- Spay or neuter your dog. Spayed/neutered dogs live longer and healthier lives. The best age to spay or neuter your dog is right before puberty – five to six months old. Don't contribute to our country's pet overpopulation problem.
- Train your dog. You owe it to yourself and your dog to have a well-trained dog. Your dog wants to please you – he just doesn't know how unless he/she is taught. For instance, make sure your dog is not a nuisance by barking uncontrollably in the backyard while you are gone. Excessive barking, chewing, digging and aggression are just some of the behavioral problems Bark Busters can help you with.
- Keep your dog healthy. Make sure you take your dog to the vet annually and get all of his vaccinations and shots. It's important that your dog eats healthy, nutritious foods and has clean water at all times. Bathe and groom your dog on a regular basis.
- Tag your dog. If your dog should get loose, he needs proper identification so he can find his way back to you. Your dog should have a tag with your name, address, and phone number. Ask your Bark Buster trainer about our WaggTagg pet identifier.
- Exercise your dog. A bored dog is a mischievous dog. Make sure you walk and exercise your dog regularly, which will benefit him both physically and mentally.
- Keep your dog safe. It's important that you keep your dog safe and not let him run loose around the neighborhood. If going outside, make sure you use a leash in public. In case of a disaster have a pet evacuation kit on hand.
- Pick up after your dog. If you are taking your dog for a walk, always carry poop bags and scoop your dog's poop. It's not fair to others to step into your dog's waste. Additionally, obey all local ordinances when it comes to licensing, leash requirements and noise control.
Remember that the benefits of pet ownership come with obligations and it is important for pet owners to provide for their pet's needs in many ways. Getting a dog is a serious commitment, one that should not be taken lightly. Make sure to pick a breed of dog that fits in with your family's lifestyle.
For more tips on being a responsible dog owner, visit our Bark Busters website.