Having a pet can be a great responsibility. So much so, that it tends to put a lot of people off from being an owner. But the benefits of having a pet, especially a dog, can tremendously outweigh any of the pressures that you may feel. Because dogs quickly become part of the family. They make you feel happy, they comfort you, and they’re always going to love you. Before long, you won’t be able to remember that life felt like without them. If you already have a dog, you’ll know exactly what this feels like, and if you’re thinking about getting one, then definitely go for it.
But remember, that they are still a responsibility. Just like you need to make sure that your kids are fed, cleaned, safe, content, and cared for, you have to do the exact same for your dog. And this can be a lot of work when you’re not used to it. However, if that doesn’t phase you, you’re going to be ready to take on the challenge. At the same time, there are certain things you should take into consideration as a dog owner if you want them to be happy and healthy. So let’s take a look at what you need to do to make that happen.
Cover Their Basic Needs
Rule number one is to always cover off their basic needs. Just as you as a human need to have your basic needs taken care of, or rather you need to take care of them yourself, you have to be able to do the same for your dog. As a bare minimum, you need to make sure that they have shelter and they’re kept warm, as well as fed and watered. So, you need to make sure that they have a suitable dog bed to keep them comfortable while in your home.
Love Them
Next up, it’s all about the love. Because you need to make sure that you shower your dog with the right amount of love, just like you would your children. This is something that should come quite naturally to you as soon as you have your dog. But if it doesn’t, you need to start. Because if they’re going to be happy, they have to be loved. This means you should not only want the best for them, but you should show them some affection every once in awhile too.
Give Them Attention
Every dog needs attention. This can often fall under the idea of loving them. Because when you love your dog, you’re going to want to give them attention. Dogs can get lonely without it. So, you need to be sure that you can give them the attention they deserve. This is going to include petting and stroking them, cuddling them, and even talking to them throughout the day too. You’ll soon notice that they’re in spirits all day long with treatment like this.
Protect Them
But being a good dog owner isn’t just all about the niceties. Just as a parent protects their child from harm, you have to do the same for your dog. It’s just in a different way. You need to make sure that they’re protected from illnesses and danger. This not only means that you have to do things like administer Pet-Lock, but keep an eye on them too. But fleas and ticks aren’t the only threat. They could run out into the road, escape from your garden, or even get stolen. So you have to be able to keep them safe!
Keep On Top Of Their Health
From here, you also have to be sure that you’re getting them checked regularly. Just like you have to see your doctor or dentist occasionally, your dog does too. But be sure to make theirs a yearly thing as a minimum. Because you know when something is wrong with you, but they might not be able to tell you that there’s something wrong with them!
Train Them
And there’s always training to take care of. Dog training is something that you either want to do yourself or get professional help with. Either way, it’s essential. Just like your toilet train your kid and take them to school, your dog will need to learn obedience too. So be sure that you get this sorted as early as possible.
Keep Them Active
Even on days when it’s wet and cold and you can’t be bothered, be sure to always walk them. No ifs, no buts. Dogs need their exercise. It’s essential to keep their hearts and joints healthy. Walks are also a lot of fun for them, especially if it’s the only time that they can get out of the house that day.
Fight Their Fears With Them
Just like humans do, dogs can have fears. But you wouldn’t want to watch your child suffer, so you shouldn’t your dog. Whether your dog hates being in the car or has another kind of fear or phobia, do what you can to face it with them. Even if it means asking your vet or speaking to another kind of dog specialist.
Feed Them Well
And don’t forget to give them a good diet. Don’t just buy any old dog food just because its cheap. You wouldn’t kill your kids with rubbish, so don’t do it to your dog! Be sure to do your research and make sure the kind you pick out is perfect for your dog’s breed in particular. And be wary of treating them too much, especially with “human food” as it can be dangerous to their health.
Spoilt Them
Finally, you should think about spoiling them too. Just because! When it’s their birthday, go ahead and buy them presents and throw them a party if you want. Having a dog is an incredible way to live, and if you want to make a huge fuss over them in your own way, by all means, do it. Even if it just means going for longer walks every now and again!
