Your dogs basic needs

It’s part of our mission to promote responsible pet ownership. There’s a lot to learn when you first become a dog owner – but here is our checklist of your dog’s basic needs:

• To be exercised regularly and have plenty of play and interaction.
• To have good quality dog food at regular intervals.
• Feeding your dog with human food is not a good idea. For example, chocolate is poisonous to dogs and can have fatal consequences.
• Commercial dog food are especially formulated to provide all the nutrients they need. If your dog has special dietary requirements your vet will recommend a special diet.
• To have constant access to clean water.
• To have a place at home to call their own. Whether a crate or a bed or a sofa – so long as it is theirs alone, and a safe, quiet place (draught-free and out of direct sunlight) to retreat to at any time. It is especially important that any children in the household understand that this place belongs to the dog, and is not a place for cuddles or play.
• To have clear and consistent instructions from you, the owner. Consistency is key to good behaviour. So have a short list of straightforward commands – and apply them without fail. And ensure every member of the household follows through with the training.
• To be well socialised with humans and other dogs. Your dog will be happier if it is allowed to mix freely with other dogs. Start with training classes where your dog can meet other dogs in a safe environment and you can learn the best way to introduce dogs to each other.
• To be treated regularly against ticks, fleas and worms and to be vaccinated with annual boosters. These measures will ensure that your dog does not suffer unnecessarily from health issues which are easily prevented.
• To be insured, so that they will not need to wait for medical attention if they need it.
• We recommend neutering for all pet animals. It not only prevents unwanted litters but can also prevent tumours and other health problems. In male dogs, it can also help curb straying or aggression. We neuter all adult dogs before they go to new homes.

And finally, for you as well as for them…

• To be identified by means of a collar and tag (it’s the law) and a microchip (not a legal requirement for all species, but recommended!) – so that they can be quickly returned home should they go missing.