Like the bonds of matrimony, getting a dog is a lifetime commitment. They offer unmatched devotion, loyalty and friendship, but they require more than just food and shelter in return. They also need healthy doses of exercise, training and-most of all-love and attention.
Steps to a happy and long-lasting relationship with your dog include:
- Find the right dog for you. Research the breeds to find the one with the right size, energy level, trainability and temperament for your lifestyle.
- Find a responsible breeder. Ethical breeders breed for quality, health and temperament and they want to find loving homes for their puppies with responsible owners who understand the commitment.
- ID your dog. Get an identification tag for your dog's collar and consider a microchip or tattoo. These steps can help you recover your dog should it become lost.
- See your vet. You and your dog should visit the veterinarian regularly and make sure to keep vaccinations current.
- Provide regular exercise. Regular exercise will help ensure continuing good health. Take your dog for a walk, run around in the yard, or play fetch-anything to get it up and moving.
- Teach basic commands. Teaching your dog basic commands such as sit, stay and come will not only make your life easier, but will also fulfill your dog's desire to learn and please you.
- Socialize your dog. Expose your dog to different people and settings regularly. The more your dog learns of the world, the more comfortable it will be out in it.
- Supervise play with children. Children and dogs can be great companions, but they require supervision when playing together.
- Spay/neuter your pet. Breeding should be left to experienced individuals. Have your pet spayed or neutered to avoid unwanted litters.
- Contact the AKC for help. They are a great resource for help in selecting a breed, finding a breeder, providing basic care and training and a whole lot more.
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