Am I a good dog owner?

The fact you’ve taken the time to search the web for ways to be the best dog owner possible, probably means you’re already doing a good job of it. But sometimes that little bit of reassurance can go a long way! Here at PitPat, we’ve put together a few things you may need to make sure you’ve got pet parenting sorted.

Education

One of the best ways to make sure you’re a good owner for your furry companion is to educate yourself. Whether it’s giving yourself a good starting block by learning of the responsibilities you now have as a pet parent or even the personality of the breed of dog you have. Let’s face it, no dog is the same. Some need more exercise than others. Some need more mentally stimulating activities. And some simply need more attention than others. So it’s worth checking just to make sure you and your dog’s breed are compatible.

Safety

Making sure your dog is safe in day-to-day life both in the comfort of your home, and when out and about is vital. There are some things that are legally required of you as a pet parent, and others that are good practice in situations where your dog could feel distressed.

Collars and tags. The Control of Dogs Order 1992 legally requires you to ensure their collar and tag clearly show details of the owner on it. Details such as an address and contact number are needed in a situation where your dog is found on their own. This is also why dogs are required to be microchipped in case owners are unable to be contacted.

It’s also recommended that the pet parent’s name be on the tag and not the name of the dog. This is so that if you’re contacted about a missing dog, people are able to ask for the right person.

Traveling. Dogs need to be restrained by a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage, or dog guard to be in line with Rule 57 of the Highway Code. This is so that they cannot injure themselves, you, or others when accompanying you on a journey.

Going on a journey in a vehicle can be distressing for pups, especially if it’s a long distance. If you’re planning a long journey it’s best to get your dog used to it first. One way you can do this is by going on walks in places you need to drive to first, or even simply putting your pup in the car and going around the block – increasing the time bit by bit until they’re more comfortable with the length of time spent in the car.

Health

Exercise. Making sure your dog gets enough exercise each day is vital to their health at all stages of their lives. If you exercise your dog too much, it can lead to muscle and joint problems. But not enough exercise can result in your dog becoming overweight, meaning they’re more likely to suffer from health problems. This is why it’s important to find that exercise sweet spot.

But how do you find it? Well, our free app will give your dog an exercise goal tailored to their breed, weight, and age, whilst our Dog Activity Monitor shows you exactly how much exercise they’re getting in a day. So you can be sure you’re always getting the balance just right.

Vet care. Having your dog registered with a local veterinary practice is extremely important. In the first couple of months of bringing your new friend home, you’ll need to have them vaccinated. It’s from this point that you’ll need to keep up-to-date with worming, flea and tick treatments, vaccinations, and overall check-ups.

A trip to the vet can be a little daunting for a pup. So it’s worth seeking out a veterinary practice that can make your dog feel at ease. Your dog may not be best pleased to see them, but it can help the whole process when a vet is familiar with the dog they’re treating.

PitPat Friendly Practice was designed with vets and is a great tool for both vets, and veterinary nurses to help keep dogs happy and healthy. It’s based on three main pillars. Weight, exercise, and feeding.

Pet Insurance. Accidents happen in pet parenting, so pet insurance is a great way to make sure you’re not hit with any unexpected bills. You’ll also need to make sure that the pet insurance you opt for provides enough cover and that you understand its limitations.

After all, all we really want is to make sure our pets are happy and healthy. This is why PitPat and PetProtect have combined their joint passion for happy, healthy pets and pet care technology. This is why all new and renewing PetProtect dog insurance policies, will now include a PitPat Dog Activity Monitor to support pet owners as much as possible in keeping their dogs active and fit.

Socialisation

Socialising your dog from an early age is great for them, and, if done carefully, sets your dog up for success as an adult. Remember, you don’t have to stop at just socialising with other dogs. Introducing your pup to new people, environments, and sounds are all things to consider if you’re trying to make your dog as well-adjusted as possible.

It’s worth noting that you don’t want to throw your dog in at the deep end when it comes to socialisation. Take things slowly and work with a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist to introduce your puppy to well socialised dogs, people and environments.

Training

Training doesn’t just help your dog understand commands and what not to do in situations. It also strengthens the bond between owner and dog. Teaching your dog good manners such as not jumping up, no mouthing, and good recall will make for much better interactions with other people and dogs. Not to mention the stress-free adventures you’ll have together when you leave the comfort of your home.

It does need to be said that training takes a lot of commitment, especially for breeds who have a higher need for mental stimulation. But with dedication and a bit of patience, you and your pooch will be working as a team in no time.

Routine

You may have noticed your dog waiting at the front door around the time you go walking. Or even staring at where their food is kept when it’s nearly dinner time. Dogs are creatures of habit and benefit from a routine just as much as we do. This is because it lets both you and your dog know what to expect from each other on a daily basis.

It’s good to have a routine so your dog knows when to be calm, and when the fun starts! However, it’s also good to keep their routine varied so they are able to be flexible. Try changing the time of day of your walk or the times that you feed them so that they learn to deal with the unexpected.

And a whole lot of love

Above all, dogs love a bit of love. Affection towards your dog shows trust, security, and care, which all dogs need from their home environment. Those evening couch marathons with them cuddling alongside you really do mean a lot to them.

You know what will also mean a lot to them? Get them a PitPat Dog Activity Monitor. This robust, waterproof device tells you how much walking, running, playing, pottering, and sleeping they’ve done in a day, and it can also tell you exactly how much exercise your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. What better way to show your love?