12 Golden Rules of Dog Ownership

by Dr Emma Whiston BVSc (Hons)
My Best Friend VET - www.mybestfriendonline.com.au
 As published in The Pet Directory 
 

The 12 Golden Rules For Dog Ownership and all your questions answered on how to take care of a new puppy.

Rule #1 For Dog Ownership: 

Train your dog to obey basic commands such as sit, stay and come so that S/He is under control at all times.

Rule #2 For Dog Ownership: 

Feed your dog a nutritionally balanced diet at regular times and ensure that your dog has a constant supply of fresh clean water.

Rule #3 For Dog Ownership: 

Provide regular exercise and involve your dog in family activities.

Rule #4 For Dog Ownership: 

Obey local laws regarding dogs on leads, and for your dogs own safety keep S/He on a lead near roadways.

Rule #5 For Dog Ownership: 

Do not allow your dog to foul pavements and public open spaces. Be prepared to clean up if an "accident" occurs.

Rule #6 For Dog Ownership: 

Do not allow your dog to bark unnecessarily and disturb your neighbours.

Rule #7 For Dog Ownership: 

Training in obedience at an early age helps prevent such problems.

Rule #8 For Dog Ownership: 

Provide your dog with its own warm and draught-free bed.

Rule #9 For Dog Ownership: 

Microchip and register your dog with your local Council and ensure that S/He wears his/her identification tag at all times.

Rule #10 For Dog Ownership: 

Keep your dog clean and regularly groomed and discuss a flea control program with your local veterinarian. If you do not wish to breed from your dog you should obtain advice from your veterinarian.

Rule #11 For Dog Ownership: 

Vaccinate your dog annually and worm him/her for intestinal worms every three months.

Rule #12 For Dog Ownership: 

Make advance arrangements for the care of your dog when you are going on holidays.