FAQs about Owing A Dog: Take Care In The Best Possible Ways

Dog's Care

Owning a dog requires commitment and responsibility. This includes providing proper nutrition, regular exercise, and ensuring their health through regular vet check-ups. Grooming, training, and socializing are also important aspects of dog care to ensure their physical and mental well-being. Here are some important FAQs that can help you take care of your companion in the best possible ways:

What Is The Estimated Yearly Cost Of Owning A Dog?

The initial purchase price of a dog is typically between $50 to $2,000, depending on the breed, but that is just the beginning of the costs. According to a report from Rover, a dog walking and pet sitting service, dog owners spend an average of $1,508 per year on their pets. This can vary based on factors like size, breed, and location.

Major expenses include:

1. Food:

High-quality dog food costs between $200 to $500 per year. Larger breeds and special diets will be on the higher end of the range.

2. Medical care:

Basic checkups, flea/tick/heartworm prevention, and vaccinations cost $200 to $500 annually. Emergency care and chronic conditions can cost $1,000 or more per year.

3. Grooming:

The average cost is $50 to $250 per grooming session, depending on the size of your dog and the services. Most dogs need grooming every 3 to 7 weeks.

4. Supplies:

Essentials such as a leash, collar, bed, bowls, toys, and waste bags cost $500 to $1,000 initially and $200 to $500 per year for replacement items.

5. Insurance:

Optional pet insurance costs between $200 to $500 per year to help cover unexpected vet costs.

While the yearly cost of dog ownership is not insignificant, the unconditional love and joy that dogs bring to our lives make them worth every penny. Proper budgeting and financial planning can help ensure you can provide your canine companion with the best possible care.

What Supplies Do I Require for a New Dog?

To properly care for a new canine companion, you will need to invest in some essential supplies.

1. Food and Water Bowls

Stainless steel bowls are long-lasting and easy to wash. Select bowls that are appropriately sized for your dog to prevent messes. Provide constant access to fresh, clean water to keep your dog hydrated.

2. High-Quality Dog Food

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog based on their age, size, and activity level. For most dogs, a balanced commercial kibble or wet food is perfectly acceptable. Measure out portions according to the recommendations on the packaging based on your dog’s ideal weight.

3. ID Tag

An ID tag provides identification in case your dog becomes lost. The tag should include your dog’s name, your contact information, and any important medical conditions. Attach the tag to your dog’s collar for their safety.

4. Collar or Harness and Leash

A properly fitted collar, harness, and leash are essential for exercising, training, and walking your dog. Select a design that is comfortable for your dog and provides adequate control.

5. Bedding

Provide your dog with a cozy area to nap and rest. Choose bedding that suits your dog’s size and the climate. Washable bedding makes it easy to keep their sleeping area clean.

6. Toys

Interactive toys provide mental and physical stimulation, which is important for your dog’s health and behavior. Rotate through different toys to keep things interesting and be sure to select toys sized appropriately for your dog.

How Much Exercise Does a Dog Need Daily?

To remain healthy and happy, dogs require daily exercise. As pack animals, dogs are accustomed to extensive daily activity.

On average, a typical dog needs 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day to meet their energy needs.

The exact amount will depend on your dog's age, size, breed, and overall health. High-energy breeds like Labradors or German Shepherds may require 1-2 hours of activity daily to prevent behavioral issues from excess energy or anxiety. Senior dogs, puppies, and smaller breeds may need slightly less. It is best to discuss your dog's unique needs with your veterinarian.

Taking your dog for walks, jogs, hikes, or engaging in active play like fetching toys are all excellent ways to provide mental and physical stimulation. In addition to aerobic exercise, dogs benefit greatly from interactive play that challenges them mentally such as learning new commands or tricks, puzzle toys that dispense treats, or other enrichment activities.

Ensuring your faithful companion receives adequate daily exercise and mental challenges will help keep them at a healthy weight, improve behavior, strengthen your bond, and add years of enjoyment to their life. A well-exercised, content dog truly enriches the life of their owner in return.

What Training Is Required for a New Dog?

To properly care for your new canine companion, certain training is required. House training a puppy demands patience and consistency. Take the dog out frequently, especially after eating or drinking. Closely supervise them indoors, and if they have an accident, clean it thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner to remove the odor. Crate training can also help speed the process.

For basic obedience, teach the commands “sit,” “stay,” “come,” “leave it,” “drop it,” and “heel.” Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise. Walk your dog daily on a leash to promote good behavior and bonding. Once the puppy has mastered basic skills, consider enrolling them in a training class. Professional guidance will help address behavioral issues and allow social interaction with other dogs.

Continuous training and practice are required to help your dog become a well-adjusted member of the family. While the initial investment of time and effort may seem daunting, the rewards of a loyal, lifelong companion will make it worthwhile.

What Health Issues Are Common in Dogs?

As man’s best friend, dogs enrich our lives in many ways. However, dog ownership also comes with certain health responsibilities.

1. Dental Disease: 

Without proper dental care, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to dental disease, tooth loss, and other problems. Brushing your dog’s teeth daily and annual deals with a vet can help prevent issues.

2. Ear Infections: 

Many dogs suffer from chronic ear infections, indicated by odor, redness, scratching, and head shaking. Routine ear cleaning and checking can catch infections early.

3. Allergies: 

Dogs can be allergic to pollens, molds, foods, and more. Symptoms include itching, scratching, and licking paws. Antihistamines and diet changes may help, but severe allergies often require prescription medication.

4. Arthritis: 

Joint pain and arthritis are common in older dogs. Weight loss, exercise, supplements, and medications can help relieve discomfort and improve mobility.

5. Diabetes: 

Increased thirst, urination, and appetite can indicate diabetes. Daily insulin injections, diet, and glucose monitoring are typically required to manage the condition.

6. Heart Disease: 

Heart disease in dogs often goes undetected until advanced stages. Annual checkups, especially for older dogs, can help catch heart disease early for the best prognosis.

7. Cancer: 

Unfortunately, dogs can get various forms of cancer. Early detection and treatment options like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy can help fight many canine cancers.

Routine vet care, exercise, a high-quality diet, dental hygiene, limiting table scraps, and not allowing obesity can help keep dogs at a healthy weight and give them the best chance at a long, vibrant life as our faithful companions.

How Often Should Dogs See the Vet?

As a responsible pet owner, you should have your dog examined regularly by a licensed veterinarian.

How often that is depends on your dog’s age, size, breed, and overall health.

Typically, puppies require frequent vet checkups, about once a month until they are 4-6 months old. This ensures they stay up to date on necessary vaccinations and treatments as their immune systems develop. Healthy adult dogs should visit the vet at least once a year for a routine physical exam and recommended annual vaccines.

Senior dogs, age 7 and older for most breeds may need biannual vet visits. Geriatric screening tests are advisable to check for conditions common in older dogs like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer. Your vet can recommend an appropriate schedule based on your dog’s medical history and risk factors for disease.

Of course, you should schedule an appointment right away if you notice any worrying symptoms in your dog such as sudden lethargy, limping, vomiting, or diarrhea that lasts more than a day or two. It is always better to err on the side of caution to rule out any serious medical issues. Establishing a good relationship with a vet you trust will give you peace of mind in keeping your loyal companion as healthy and happy as possible.

What Should I Feed My Dog?

To provide your canine companion with proper nutrition, you must feed them a balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level.

1. Commercial dog food

For most owners, high-quality commercial dog food is the best option. Look for a product approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) that lists meat like beef, chicken, or fish as the first ingredient. Grain-free and limited-ingredient diets may be good for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. For large breed puppies, choose a formula specifically for large breed growth to prevent musculoskeletal problems.

2. Homemade food

If you prefer to make your dog’s food at home, consult with a veterinarian to create a balanced recipe. A homemade diet may not provide complete nutrition, so certain supplements may be required. Home cooking also requires a major time commitment to prepare and measure ingredients properly. Only switch to a homemade diet under the guidance of a vet.

3. Treats and Table Scraps:

Treats and table scraps should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Too many treats can lead to obesity, nutritional imbalance, and behavioral issues. Only give treats and table scraps in moderation and avoid unhealthy human foods like raisins, grapes, chocolate, and cooked bones.

4. Feeding Schedule:

Most owners feed adult dogs two meals a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. For puppies, three meals may be better. Always follow the recommendations on your dog food’s packaging for proper portion sizes based on your dog’s age, size, and activity level. Measure out portions to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to obesity and other health issues over time.

Where Can I Adopt a Dog?

Seeking to adopt a new canine companion is an exciting endeavor. However, it can also feel overwhelming with the multitude of options available. An ideal place to start your search is at your local animal shelter or humane society. These organizations care for dogs in need of a loving home. By adopting from a shelter, you are saving a life and providing an animal a second chance.

Shelters have dogs of all breeds, generations, and sizes. Take your time to find one with a temperament and energy level to match your lifestyle. The staff will help determine if the dog has had proper medical care and is already spayed or neutered. Some may come with basic training and the shelter can guide continuing training at home.

While buying from a breeder may seem appealing, there are millions of dogs euthanized each year due to overpopulation. Adopting is the most ethical choice and helps address this critical issue. By giving a shelter dog a place in your home and heart, you'll gain a loyal companion and enrich your life in ways you never imagined. The rewards of rescuing an animal in need are truly life-changing.

CTA: Remind readers of the responsibilities of dog ownership, such as proper care, exercise, and training, and encourage them to commit to being responsible pet owners.

Sources: American Kennel Club (AKC) | The Humane Society of the United States | PetMD | The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) | Psychology Today | Dogster | The Bark | WebMD Pets | The Dodo | Canine Journal