Pet ownership can be an immense responsibility. Ownership requires time, energy and dedication in the form of feeding, bathing, grooming (if necessary), training, playing with and exercising your pet on a daily basis. Unfortunately for some, full time jobs make this difficult or they lack space indoors for their pup to run around safely and play.
If this sounds like you, one way you might be able to meet your dog’s needs by planning an effective schedule could be working around their needs by being home at lunch time and giving your pup time for toilet breaks and freshening food and water before heading back off to work is taking your lunch break away from them. Also this would give you time to check on them and ensure everything is OK before returning back out there for work again.
Your dog’s happiness and safety can be greatly improved with proper socialization. This will prevent him or her from feeling lonely and engaging in destructive behaviors when left alone, such as digging or chewing, which reduces stress levels as well as risks in the home.
Make sure your dog gets plenty of outdoor exercise, ideally two short or one longer walk every day if possible, to help burn off energy and avoid behavioral problems such as excessive barking. Be sure to always keep them on a leash when outdoors to ensure they don’t run away and potentially injure themselves or become lost.
Dogs are pack animals by nature, needing the company of humans and other dogs for social stimulation. That is why you will need to provide your canine with reliable companionship by being available when they want you, using positive reinforcement techniques when training them and teaching them everything necessary for becoming well-adjusted, happy and healthy members of society.
Training can be hard and can feel frustrating at times, but staying relaxed and patient will help your dog respond better to you. Our dogs are adept at reading our body language, so tense or angry owners won’t benefit as much in training classes.
Make sure your dog always has access to water, especially while on walks or out and about, in order to help avoid dehydration and illness. Carry a bowl of fresh water with you when traveling, just in case they require it during their travels.
Dogs need to be fed on a consistent schedule – typically twice per day. Establish a feeding routine so your pup knows when and what they should expect; also you will be able to monitor how much they eat. Consult your veterinarian about your pet’s dietary and health requirements as they have already examined and known your pup well; this allows them to provide valuable advice.
