|
Dog
Owner Checklist
-
A dog is for life. No exceptions.
-
The only answer to the question ‘When is it acceptable
to give up a dog?’ is ‘Never.’
-
Dogs are pack animals.
-
It is unnatural for them to be alone. Do everything in
your power to minimize the amount of time they spend
alone.
-
All dogs can be trained.
-
Age, breed, size…none are an impediment to a
well-trained dog.
-
Aggression is learned
behaviour.
-
Aggression is not the same as dominant,
submissive, or fearful
behaviour, and it is not an inheritable trait. Aggression is
the cumulative result of inadequate training and poor
socialization.
-
There is no need to punish a dog.
-
Concentrate on what your dog is doing right and praise
that, while ignoring or redirecting the
behaviours
you don’t want.
-
Obey all local by-laws pertaining to dog ownership.
-
Breaking the law makes life difficult for all dog
owners.
-
It is important that your dog be adequately trained AND
socialized.
-
You don’t need to compete in obedience, but your dog
should not do anything that infringes on the rights of
other citizens.
-
Without exception, pick up after your pet.
-
Whether it’s your own yard or beside the trails in the
woods, you’ll keep the area clean and enjoyable for
everyone who follows you.
-
Dogs do not exercise and socialize themselves.
-
Even if a dog does run around her yard, she certainly
isn’t gaining any socialization experience there.
Running around your yard is about as interesting to your
dog as going for a jog in your living room would be to
you.
-
Your dog should not be left unsupervised outside the
home.
-
Any number of things could happen if you aren’t there to
watch out for her, from escape to theft to abuse by
strangers.
|
