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Any new dog owner should consider the following list as essential to responsible dog ownership: - DO attach an identifying tag to your dog's collar. The Control of Dogs Order 1992 specifies that any dog taken into a public place must wear a tag with the name and address of the owner written on it. (Don't put your dog's name on the tag. You are just making life easier for a potential dog thief!).
- DO consider having your dog microchipped. Although it is not yet required by law, all new dog owners should consider having their dog microchipped. This could prove vital to its safe return if ever your dog is lost.
- DO attend dog training classes. Dog training classes are not just for owners of large dogs. You owe it to yourself, your dog and anyone who might come in contact with your dog to ensure that you are trained in how to handle and control your dog.
- DO clean up after your dog. Not only are you breaking the law if you don't, you are being inconsiderate to others. Try to remember, the next person to tread on that spot could be you!
- DO feed your dog ONLY your dog food manufacturer's recommended daily intake for your particular breed of dog. You are not being kind to your dog by overfeeding it. You will almost certainly be damaging its health and you could even shorten its life!
- Do ensure your dog always has access to clean, fresh drinking water.
- Do insure your dog at Compare Dog Insurance. You don't want to find out just how expensive a vet's bill can be until it's too late. A few pounds a month could save you thousands, to say nothing of the potential cost to you in the event of a third-party claim against you for loss, damage or injury caused by your dog.
- Do keep your dog under control at all times, ensuring that you also keep it close to you when walking on its lead.
- DO ensure that you give your dog adequate exercise and attention based on the individual requirements for that particular breed. So many behavioural problems in individual dogs come about because their owners do not understand the breed and its requirements.
- Do groom your dog regularly in accordance with the requirements for that particular breed.
- Do ensure that your dog is adequately vaccinated and regularly wormed.
- Do consider having your dog neutered or spayed to avoid unwanted puppies.
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