How To Be A Responsible Dog Owner

Step 1: Physical Health

Schedule regular visits to the vet for checkups and vaccinations. The vet can be expensive but there are insurance plans, which can help with the cost.

Make sure your dog has a healthy diet with the proper food for its breed, age and size. Always have water at your dog's disposal and try to limit table scraps or other “people food.”

Keep your dog free of fleas, ticks and other unwanted inhabitants with regular bathing, medications or collars. Regular grooming will help in this process as well as keep your dog looking sharp!

If your dog is ever unattended outdoors, make sure it is in a physical or electric fenced yard.
I.D. your dog. By wearing an identification tag with name, address and phone number, your dog can easily be returned in case you are separated. You can also microchip your dog …its embedded in the scruff of the neck—no pain-- and all his information is entered in a national database.

Step 2: Mental Health

Play, go on walks and talk to your dog. He may not understand the words you're saying but Fido loves the sound of your praising voice.
Give your dogs treats, toys and belly scratches.

Step 3: Training

Training is a very important part of a good master/dog relationship. Dog's need to know who the boss is and that boss is you.

Teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come and down.

For the sake of your neighbors and community, take your dog to obedience class so that it can learn basic commands as well as to socialize with other dogs and people.
As your dog begins to practice the basics, give him a job. Teach him to fetch, catch a Frisbee or help carry things around the house. The sense of purpose will increase his sense of well-being.

Step 4: Clean Up

This one is quick and easy. For the sake of you, your dog, and your neighbors, clean up after your dog.

On walks, always carry the means to clean up after your dog's eliminations. It may not be pretty, but it's the right thing to do.

Step 5: Done

That's it! Just remember to treat your dog as you would like to be treated. Be fair and polite but be firm and you and your dog will have a great relationship for years to come!