Do you think you are a responsible owner? Is this your first time taking care of a dog? Well, you are in the right place. By reading this article, you will learn what it takes to become a responsible owner and keep your dog happy, healthy and protected.
Steps
Step 1. Castra or neuter your dog when he is of a certain age
Do this both to avoid unwanted litters that would increase the number of animals in shelters, and to prevent behavior problems in puppies.
Step 2. Always keep your dog on a leash in public places
This will prevent him from running away and jumping on other dogs or people.
Step 3. Give your dog healthy food and clean water
Don't let it "graze", but make sure it always has fresh water. If you go on a long journey, give him a drink as soon as you stop.
Step 4. Clean the water and food bowls daily
This is important if you want your dog to be healthy.
Step 5. Make regular stops if you are on a long journey with your dog so that he can get out, get some exercise and have a sip of water. Never leave the dog unattended in the car!
Step 6. Check if the garden or yard is safe when it comes out
Make sure there are no gaps in fences or gates, especially if the dog is small. If she has just given birth, it would be wise to install wire in the gates spaces, as very small dogs could pass through the bars. Also, if he's still a puppy, make sure he doesn't have access to any electrical wires or cables.
Step 7. Take your dog to the vet at least once a year
It is necessary to have him undergo regular checks to make sure he is in excellent health and that any problems are identified and treated in time.
Step 8. Brush him regularly to prevent the hair from tangling and tangling
The frequency depends on the dog's coat.
Step 9. Train your dog to always obey you and behave well
Training will strengthen your bond, prevent or correct unwanted behaviors, and make your dog a happy and balanced pet. Look for a training school near you.
Step 10. Get him chew toys to help him have healthy teeth and relieve his boredom
Step 11. Give him a bath when necessary
It is usually not necessary to bathe your dog more than once a month, otherwise the skin will dry out and itch.
Step 12. Walk your dog at least twice a day so that he can move physically and refresh his soul
A tired dog is an obedient dog. Without adequate exercise, he will become bored and have behavior problems (such as chewing on objects, barking excessively, jumping and being hyperactive).
Step 13. Collect the needs left by your dog
Dispose of your waste properly. Consider using biodegradable bags.
Advice
- A responsible owner proactively protects his dog and prevents him from putting himself in situations where he is forced to defend himself.
- Know your dog's fears and aversions and do your best to prevent fear from turning into aggression.
- Remember to cut his nails. Don't rely on the pavement of the street, believing it can keep them short.
- If you cannot physically supervise the dog when you are with your children, then dedicate yourself to them at different times.
- Professional and certified trainers invest hundreds of hours studying and observing the behavior of dogs, so they are able to adequately address their problems and correct them.
Warnings
- Keep litter bins out of the dog's reach (in a closed cupboard or pantry) or prevent them from getting inside (use lids). A dog ingesting garbage is a much more serious problem to solve than a simple mess.
- Poinsettias are poisonous to dogs. Holly bushes are poisonous to cats and dogs, although the latter are strangely attracted to them. Other substances that are quite common in the home and poisonous to dogs are raisins, grapes, mushrooms, onions, macadamia nuts, chocolate (normally, small amounts of milk chocolate are not a problem for older dogs, but chocolate dark can KILL any dog, especially the one used in cooking) and caffeine.
- Some plants can be toxic or poisonous to dogs, so keep all house plants out of your dog's reach.
- Never leave the dog in the car with or without the windows open. AND very dangerous.
- Make sure your dog is always hydrated and, when it is very hot, take him to the shade, otherwise he could get dejected.
- Some medications can kill dogs. You can give your dog aspirin if your vet assures you that there are no problems and prescribes the right dosage. Paracetamol is lethal. For mild allergic reactions, some vets recommend diphenhydramine, but be very careful as some drug formulations of diphenhydramine contain pseudoephedrine, which is very toxic to dogs and requires immediate veterinary care if ingested.
