Animals

4 Golden Rules Of Being a Dog Owner

When it comes to having a dog as a pet it can be one of the most rewarding relationships that a person can have. Dogs are known for being affectionate, loyal, and fun-loving creatures which can bring joy to anyone’s life. However, as a dog owner, it’s important to make sure that you are fulfilling your role as a dog owner the same as they are fulfilling their role as your loving and affectionate loyal friend.

Fulfilling all of your responsibilities as a dog owner ensures that not only will your dog be a happier creature, but you’ll have a better experience as a pet owner as a whole.

When it comes to the golden rules of being a dog owner, here are the ones that you simply cannot skip.

Establish Dominance

While some dog owners may want to believe that their dogs are their equals, this won’t do you any favors in the long run. It’s possible to treat your dog with respect and love them while also maintaining a calm and assertive dominance.

Establishing dominance over your dog will ensure that they know who is the boss, and you avoid them falling into behavioral issues such as biting other humans or dogs, peeing inside the house or destroying property.

Calm and assertive dominance can be established by setting boundaries and staying consistent with your rules.

Take Your Dog For a Walk Every Day

Dogs are naturally active creatures. It’s important to get them outside of the house and walking at least once a day. For bigger dogs, you may even want to take them for 2 walks today.

A dog who has pent up energy and isn’t exercised regularly enough resorts to naughty behavior. Overall a dog who isn’t active has an overall much less happy existence.

Feed Them Appropriate Food

While it may be tempting to give your dog all of the treats that you love such as french fries, ice cream or even burritos, it’s important to only give your dog food which is appropriate for canines. This means dog food specifically marketed towards dogs or vet-approved meats and grains.

Do Not Strike Them

Once upon a time, it was considered perfectly acceptable to hit your dog. Some people still believe to this day that a dog learns better by physical abuse. However, a dog can learn just as well with alternative forms of discipline.

There is plenty of evidence out supporting that violence towards your animal is not necessary. It is unadvised to do anything of the sort which inflicts pain on your dog. Abuse not only makes them fear you but it creates distance between you in your relationship.

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Anna Johansson is a freelance writer, researcher, and business consultant from Olympia, WA. A columnist for Entrepreneur.com, Business.com and more. Anna specializes in entrepreneurship, technology, and social media trends. You can follow her on LinkedIn.

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