Dogs are by far the closest to people out of any other animal alive. Any dog owner would agree that the unconditional love from a dog is unmatched by any other type of pet you can imagine. Owning a dog is not just a blessing but a responsibility too. Just like having a child you need to care, protect, clean, feed and shelter your pooch.
With help from the AKC we are able to provide 101 tips that they feel are the most important for any respinsible dog owner:
Think First
- Recognize the Commitment
- Evaluate Your Lifestyle
- Make a List
- Choose a Breed
- Get a Referral
- Make Contact
- Ask Questions
- Consider an Older Dog
- Expect Questions
- Prepare to Wait
- Skip the Holidays
Make the Commitment
- Pick Your Pet
- Get It in Writing
- Get Your Papers
- Register Your Dog
Get Ready
- Prepare Yourself
- Make a Schedule
- Dog-Proof Your Home
- Set a Containment Policy
- Get a Collar
- Make a Bed
- Buy Some Toys
- Find a Veterinarian
Bring Your Dog Home
- Welcome Your New Pet
- Let Your Dog Adjust
- Name Your Dog
- Make Introductions
- Introduce Other Pets
- Housetrain
- Set House Rules
Keep Your Dog Healthy
- Go to the Veterinarian
- Feed a Good Diet
- Exercise
- Vaccinate
- Prevent Disease
- Repel Fleas and Ticks
- Know Your Dog’s Patterns
- Provide Chew Toys
- Bathe Your Dog
- Groom Your Dog
- Clip Those Nails
- Clean Those Teeth
- Prevent Obesity
- Know Your Breed’s Health Risks
- Protect From Poisons
- Be Alert to Changing Needs
- End Suffering
Keep Your Dog Safe
- I.D. Your Dog
- Consider Microchips or Tattoos
- Provide Shelter
- Watch the Heat
- Travel Safely
- Find a Pet-Sitter or Boarding Kennel
- Prepare for Disaster
- Establish an Emergency Contact
- Make a Will
- Take Pictures
Be a Friend
- Play!
- Go On Walks
- Talk to Your Dog
- Give Treats
- Love Your Dog
- Switch Out Toys
- Give Your Time
- Find the “Spot”
- Leave the Radio On
- Plan Activities With Your Dog
- Give a Massage
- Make That Tail Wag
- Go On Trips
- Ease Separation Anxiety
- Give Kisses
- Get Another One!
- Don’t Let Your Dog Down
Train Your Dog
- Be The Alpha
- Teach Basic Commands
- Socialize Your Dog
- Go to Class
- Prevent Nuisance Barking
- Praise Your Dog
- Supervise Play With Children
- Give Your Dog a Job
Breed Responsibly
- Breed To Improve
- Spay or Neuter
- Contain Bitches in Heat
- Perform Genetic Screening
Get Involved
- Join an AKC Club
- Earn an AKC Title
- Encourage Breed Behavior
- Involve the Kids
- Find a Mentor
- Read All About It
Be a Canine Ambassador
- Set a Good Example
- Respect Your Neighbors
- Don’t Leave Leavings
- Respect Local Laws
- Fight Anti-Dog Legislation
- Let Your Dog Help Others
- Get a Canine Good CitizenĀ® Certificate
- Show Your Pride
- Contact the AKC
The list may be long but it gives anyone thinking about becoming a dog owner a great idea of what it entails.
What were the biggest surprises you have encountered after becoming a pet owner yourself?
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