| Each year, the AKC invites its more than 5,000 affiliated dog clubs, along with other pet-related organizations, to host Responsible Dog Ownership Days to help educate the public in their communities about the responsibilities of dog ownership and help current owners enhance their relationships with their pets. | | Owning a dog has endless pleasures and rewards, but we all need a friendly reminder about the obligations we have to our pets in return.
Curli, one of Europe’s leading brands of dog harnesses and accessories, and now available in the United States, is committed to producing products that enhance the health and safety of household pets. We strongly believe in the principles of responsible dog ownership and have summarized some of the key principals that all dog owners should be aware of. | | | | 1. Recognize the commitment. Before deciding that a dog is right for you, make an honest assessment: are you ready for the financial, emotional, and time commitment owning a dog requires? | |  | 2. Make a schedule. You and your family members should decide who will be responsible for food, water, walks, exercise, cleanup, and grooming. Post a schedule of tasks to remind everyone of their responsibilities.
3. Dog-proof your house. Prepare your home before your new dog arrives. Move breakables or “chewables” to higher ground. Make electrical cords inaccessible to curious paws and noses. Block off any area of the house that’s off-limits. Block access to any house or garden plants that are toxic to dogs. | | | 4. Set a containment policy. Make sure the yard is securely fenced or that you have a run for your dog. If that’s not possible, keep in mind that your pup will need to be on a leash outdoors. | | | When walking or otherwise restraining your dog, experts recommend using a harness rather than a collar, as collars have been associated with many health related problems including neck and spinal injuries, glaucoma and nerve damage. Curli’s reputation for superior harness design and quality makes it a great choice for your furry friends. For information go to https://shop.mycurli.com/ | | | 5. Exercise. Take your dog for walks, play games, run in the yard, throw a ball around — anything to stimulate his mind and body. Set aside time each day for play sessions. It’s fun, provides an outlet for your pup’s energy, and strengthens the bond between you.
6. Groom your dog. Some short-coated breeds need just a quick brushing every week, while some longer-coated breeds need daily brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Wash your dog with shampoo meant for canines.
7. Keep your dog fit and trim. Feed him a well-balanced diet and give him plenty of exercise. Keep the diet consistent. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water. Don’t overdo it with the treats. | | | 8. ID your dog. He should wear an identification tag with your name, address, and phone number at all times. Dog owners should also consider using the global DogFinder® system offered exclusively from curli and built into every curli harness on the market. This global identification and tracking system is designed to reunite lost dogs with their owners. For more information, go to http://dogfinder.mycurli.com/ | | | | 9. Socialize Your Dog. Expose your dog to different people and settings regularly. Take him to the park, to the pet store, on a walk through town. Praise him for behaving calmly around strangers and other dogs. | | | For the complete list of AKC responsible dog ownership practices, go to https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/responsible-dog-owner/ | | | | |
