New Year’s Resolutions for the Dog Owner

I will never physically punish my dog because I know it will cause him to fear and distrust me, and does not teach him a better behavior.

I will feed my dog a good quality diet with real meat (or fish) as the first ingredient – no by-products or meal, because I know that what he eats effects his health and behavior.

I will brush my dog’s teeth at least three times a week so that he will not suffer from dental disease. By the way, February is National Pet Dental Month when many veterinarians offer discounts on pet dental cleanings.

I know that overweight dogs have more health problems and shorter lives so I will keep my dog at a healthy weight with diet and exercise.

When my dog does something I don’t like, instead of scolding him I will re-direct him to a behavior I like and reward him for doing that behavior.

I will do my best to never leave my dog home alone for more than eight hours a day. If I must be away longer than eight hours I will hire a dog walker.

I will spend at least two hours a day with my dog, walking, training, or playing with him, or just being together and giving him attention and affection.

I will learn to recognize when my dog is afraid or stressed and remove him from situations that make him feel that way.

I will remember that my dog has the emotional and cognitive abilities of a human toddler and is incapable of spite, vengeance, and guilt.

I will remember that dogs get bored when there is nothing to do, just like humans. I will provide him with interactive toys to occupy his mind when he is home alone.

I will help my dog be good by preventing problem situations. I will keep the trash inaccessible, not leave food on the table or counters, not leave my socks on the floor, and try my best to not otherwise set him up for failure with temptation.

I know my dog’s life is so short compared to mine, and I will do my best to make those short years as fulfilling as possible.

Send your dog training and behavior questions to [email protected].
Or put them in the comments section.

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