What does it mean to be a good dog owner?

1. Dog Chef

Some people would say a good dog owner is someone who gets the best ingredients, and cooks gourmet food for their dog. Most dogs really like food, so perhaps the best way to a dog’s heart is through his stomach.  

Are You a Good Dog Owner?

2. Dog Designer

Others would say a good dog owner is someone who gets the best toys, designer clothing, and designer furniture for their dog. After all, wouldn’t living in style make any canine happy?

Siberian Husky Shania on a bed of toys.

3. Dog Trainer

But often times, we perceive the best dog owners as the ones with the most obedient dogs. These dogs look upon their owners for direction on what to do, and follow every movement and command with great precision, and speed.

We often view good dog owners as the ones with the most obedient dogs.

4. Dog Exercise Coach

Many however, would argue that the best dog owners are the ones who exercise their dog both mentally and physically. Like postmen, these owners would walk their dogs twice daily; in rain, shine, snow, or sleet. A well-exercised dog is a good and happy dog, right?

Good Dog Owner - Dog Exercise Coach

5. Dog Listener

I personally think that there is no right answer; or perhaps the right answer is all of the above, and more. 

I think a good dog owner is someone who listens to their dog and tries to understand what their canine desires are.

Then this listener would have to balance those desires with safety concerns, health concerns, and make the best decisions not just for the dog, but for everyone in the family.

I think a good dog owner is someone who listens to their dog and tries to understand what their canine desires are.

Some dogs may desire to eat everything in sight, but this would result in an obese and unhealthy dog. Dog desires, must therefore, be tempered with long-term health and safety issues.

Similarly, spoiling the dog at the expense of everyone else in the family is not the right answer either. This will likely create a divided home where no one is really happy, not even the dog.

Are you a good dog owner?

Only you can decide. 

• Do you care about your dog’s welfare and needs?
• Are you willing to make sacrifices for your dog?
• Are you willing to learn and change for your dog?

A dog gives us much, so we should try to give him our very best in return.

A dog gives us much, so we should try to give him our very best in return.