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How to be a responsible dog owner

August 31, 2024

September is National Responsible Dog Ownership Month! Dog guardians are responsible for their pets’ overall well-being, which is a big task. Love alone won’t keep your pup healthy: A responsible dog owner has a plan to address their dog’s needs throughout their life and ensure safe, healthy, positive interactions whether at home or out and about.

Committing: Getting Off on the Right Paw

Whether adopting from a local rescue or purchasing a pup from a responsible breeder, you’re not just getting a dog. You’re adding a new family member. That’s a big commitment.

You cannot foresee all the potential speed bumps and detours you might encounter, but proactivity goes a long way. For example, dogs’ needs can add a few thousand to your budget each year. Having a savings account dedicated to your pup can help when unexpected expenses arise. You might also consider pet insurance, which can make routine vaccinations and unexpected medical needs more manageable.

Finally, seal the deal with a microchip. Even the best management strategies can fail, and if your dog slips the lead, rushes the door, or escapes the fence, that microchip might be the one thing that brings your pup back home.

Civic Responsibility: Keep Those Tails Wagging

Establish a relationship with a local veterinarian to prevent and manage potential health issues. Talk to your vet about their recommendations for spaying and neutering and the most appropriate age for that, timely vaccinations, parasite control, and heartworm prevention to minimize the risk of preventable diseases. Pick up after your pup on walks and playdates to reduce the risk of spreading disease through waste or contaminating water supplies.

Responsible dog owners also make sure their pups are good canine citizens. Start with socialization: Introduce your little furry guy to various people, spaces, and animals once your vet gives the all-clear. Don’t flood their senses, but try to add a new adventure or experience once they’ve mastered the previous ones. When your puppy has completed their vaccine series, puppy classes can be a great way to help your pup learn to move confidently and fluently among both dogs and people. They can also try out our dog daycare when you're at work or school. Daycare offers them essential socialization opportunities and fun in a safe, supervised environment.

Centered on Fun: Addressing Your Dog’s Mental and Physical Needs

Another critical aspect of responsible dog ownership is training. Training your dog doesn’t just teach them to “leave it” or “come” but also provides intellectual stimulation, which is vital to your dog's mental and emotional well-being. Training is not a one-and-done thing. You constantly reinforce lessons, teach new tricks, and explore skills together, which enhances your bond and strengthens your dog’s confidence. For them, it’s not work but rather a game. Make it a fun one that you’ll both love.

Even the laziest dogs need exercise sometimes, and energetic or active breeds, like labradors, need a lot of exercise. Have a plan to help your dog stay active, whether that means twice-daily walks or long sessions with the flirt pole. Research to ensure your planned activities are appropriate to your dog’s age, breed, and health status. Remember that puppies’ needs can be far different than senior dogs’ needs, and plan accordingly.

Finally, remember to include your dog in your life plans. That means including pet needs in your emergency kit, making arrangements for your pet’s care when you’re unable to, and planning for your dog’s senior years, including palliative and hospice care.

Dog guardianship is a big responsibility, but with the right planning, you can ensure your dog enjoys safety, health, and happiness throughout their time with you. Contact Playful Pack today to find out more or to schedule a free temperament evaluation and stay for a free day of dog daycare!