Dog Owner Check List

There are some things you can do to be a better dog owner. As a benefit, you most likely will have a happier and healthier dog!

1. Spend more time with your dog – Just spending some quiet time before work, after work or midday, will make a big difference. Dogs love to be talked to and made to feel important.

2. Groom – Most dogs like to be groomed or brushed. - This also stimulates the skin and gets rid of dead hair. Regular grooming will also help keep your house cleaner from less shedding hair.

3. Play – Play is good for both you and your dog!

4. Understand your dog – Know his or her favorite type of play and their favorite time of day to play versus rest.

5. Feed a consistent diet – Use a high quality food with AAFCO approval formulated for your dogs life stage. Supplement with healthy treats only in moderation.

6. Supply plenty of fresh water at all times. Clean the water bowl once daily and make sure it is always full.

7. Provide a comfortable place to sleep – Whether inside or out, your dog should have a comfortable place to sleep.

8. Carefully choose toys for safety – Not just any toy will do. You really need to consider safety issues when choosing toys for your dog. For example, are there any parts that can be torn off and swallowed? Is it something he or she might "eat" thus causing a possible intestinal foreign body that could require surgery? Will it please your dog? Choose toys that cannot be chewed or swallowed. If you are not sure how your dog will interact with a toy, observe him.

9. Supervise – Always keep a watchful eye on your dog for dangerous or destructive behaviors.

10. Exercise – Daily exercise will keep your dog fit. Additional exercise can help with some behavior problems as well.

11. Do not let your dog get fat – Adjust food intake for body type, provide healthy treats, and exercise regularly to avoid extra weight gain.

12. Be observant – Monitor absolutely everything your dog does. For example, did he eat all his food today? Has he been drinking? Was his urine and bowel movement normal? Is his activity level the same? How does he look? Is his hair coat okay? Early recognition of symptoms can save your dogs life.

13. Visit your veterinarian regularly – Be sure maintain an appropriate schedule of wellness and recheck appointments. Your dog's needs may continue to change depending on their life stage or health conditions.

Ingredients for a Happy Dog

Taking my dog, Ebony, in the car with me makes her happy. (especially when she gets to bring a friend!)

What makes your dog happy?

Here are three ingredients for a happy dog:

1. Play more often. When you tire your dog out they will have less energy to burn in less desirable ways. It sounds simple, but if your schedule does not include daily playtime for your dog, try adding it in.

2. Find a game your dog loves. Dogs are like humans: they have their own favorites, likes, and dislikes. Not all dogs like the same games and toys. Try experimenting to see what gets them excited and playing

3. Challenge them with a toy. If regular balls and bones are not enough to keep your dog out of trouble, consider giving them a puzzle toy. While many toys are great for keeping dogs busy, sometimes your dog needs a little more stimulation or challenge. These can include toys that work like puzzles, float, or randomly dispense treats.

Secrets of a Happy Dog

What is it that makes a dog a truly happy dog?


Here are FIVE SECRETS:

Secret # 1

Happiness is getting a move on. Just like people, dogs feel great when they are in good shape.

Secret # 2

Happiness is preventing health problems. Dog's cannot tell you when they do not feel well, so be preventative about health issues.

Secret # 3

Happiness is mental stimulation. Give your dog plenty of opportunities to meet new people and dogs. Let your dog solve puzzles. Take your dog out in nature to sniff.

Secret # 4

Happiness is the right foods in the right amounts. Choose a well-known dog food, and do not overfeed your dog with too many treats or snacks between meals.

Secret # 5

All you need is love. Most dogs love to be petted; at least five minutes a day.

Happy Dog Secrets

What is it that makes a dog a truly happy dog?

FIVE SECRETS

1. Happiness is getting a move on. Just like people, dogs feel great when they are in good shape. Different dogs require different amounts of exercise, but giving your dog a daily chance to run will help your dog stay happy and healthy.

2. Happiness is preventing health problems. Be sure to prevent problems before they start as your dog cannot tell you when he/she does not feel well. Take your dog to the veterinarian regularly.

3. Happiness is mental stimulation. Give your dog plenty of chances to meet new people and dogs. Take your dog out into nature to sniff. Give your dog puzzles to solve.......such as finding a toy or treat.

4. Happiness is the right foods in the right amounts. Choose a well-known dog food, and do not overfeed your dog with too many treats or snacks between meals.

5. All you need is love; most dogs love to be petted. Give you dog at least five minutes of your full attention and lots of petting daily.