What does it mean to be a great dog owner? You don’t need to treat your pup to luxury spa days or dress them in designer outfits.
The truth is far simpler and cheaper, but don’t just take our word for it.
Scientists confirm all great dog owners follow these nine simple, research-backed practices. Do you follow them too?
9. The Secret to a Safe Space
According to dog behaviorist Susan Clothier Feeling safe is your pup’s most basic and immediate need.
Great dog owners understand that a safe environment is crucial for their fur babies to thrive.
So what does a safe environment mean?
First and foremost, it means protection from unpleasant or extreme weather.
Your pup needs a cool spot out of the sun when it’s hot and something to help them warm up when it’s cold.
They also need a place to escape the wind and rain.
If your fur baby lives inside, the environment is likely temperature controlled, but other hazards must be considered: chemicals, poisonous plants, dangerous foods, and sharp objects should be kept well away from curious little tongues and noses.
It goes without saying, but make sure your pup has access to a potty place separate from their living space to avoid unnecessary exposure to parasitic and bacterial infections.
Depending on the dynamic of your household, your sweet boy or girl also needs to feel safe from human or animal threats, which include the territorial kitty cat and any well-meaning but handsy children.
Finally, a space away from loud noises or other things that scare them is essential.
So how does a clean, comfy bed in a quiet corner of the house sound? It sounds like a safe haven.
8. What goes in your dog bowl?
When it comes to food, great dog owners don’t put their pups in charge of the dinner menu.
Can you imagine your pooch in a little chef’s hat and bonafide apron grilling up a juicy steak for the 100th night in a row? Not exactly a balanced diet.
According to the National Research Council, your pup’s meal should include four essential elements.
First of all, we’re talking about “proteins” as a source of amino acids vital for tissue growth and repair.
Then there are “fats” and fatty acids to support cell function and provide bursts of energy, zoomy fuel.
Besides those, your dog needs quality “carbohydrates.” High insoluble fiber, not grains or fillers, to promote gastrointestinal health and continued energy
and finally “vitamins and minerals” for healthy bones. glossy coat and a strong immune system
The optimum composition of these elements depends on your fur baby’s age, size, activity level, and health status.
so it’s important to tailor their diet accordingly.
Did you know that pups develop a preference for certain flavors and textures early on?
Start them on the good stuff while they’re young to set the table for a lifetime of healthy eating habits.
And finally, your dog must stay hydrated, so access to fresh, clean water is essential.
7. The workout your dog wants
It’s the one word all pups love to hear: walkies.
Of course, walkies mean anything from a gentle stroll through the park to splish-splashing in the sea to a trail running up a mountain.
Whatever the intensity, great dog owners know that regular exercise is crucial for their pups.
We all know about the physical benefits—more energy, stronger hearts, and better joints and bones—but did you know these workouts also provide mental and emotional perks for your pooch?
One study from the Dog Aging Project showed that active dogs are less likely to develop canine cognitive dysfunction or doggy dementia.
Regular exercise also helps reduce anxiety and improve your pup’s overall mood. Pup-some!
And as an added bonus, walkies benefit you too. Numerous studies show you’re likely to be more active when you own a dog. It’s a woofing win-win.
6. The game every dog loves
Keeping your dog active doesn’t just mean exercising their body; it also means exercising their mind.
Great dog owners know that mental stimulation is crucial for your dog’s overall health and well-being.
It’s a great way to cure boredom and mentally exhaust your dog, making it one of the best ways to stop your perfect little angel from becoming the Tasmanian devil.
Many studies have shown that mentally exercising your dog can help reduce stress and anxiety and could even improve their sleeping patterns.
Activities like puzzle toys, training games, and hide and seek can help improve your dog’s focus and adaptability.
These games also keep your dog’s mind sharp, which is super important as they age.
While the New York Times crossword might be a little out of reach, a fun game of finding the treat will benefit your little buddy in so many ways.
5. The wellness checklist
Great dog owners understand that just like us, pups need regular health checks and maintenance too.
According to the American Animal Hospital Association, annual vet checkups not only ensure timely vaccinations like those for rabies, distemper, and parvovirus but also help catch underlying health issues early, such as heartworms or joint problems.
Scheduled worm, flea, and tick prevention treatments help to keep those little nasties away.
and owners can catch those that slip through the net by regularly checking their pooch from nose to tail.
And while dental care seems to be a luxury add-on for us two-legged types, maintaining your dog’s oral hygiene counts as essential health care.
Regular brushing and dental treats ensure your pup’s pearly whites are plaque-free and help fight off gum disease.
Your pooch’s health care might not be their favorite activity, but starting the health care habit early means your little trooper will accept it as part of their routine.
4. Beauty Regime
Great dog owners know that a proper beauty regime isn’t just about keeping their pups Instagram-ready.
It’s about health and trust.
Regular baths remove allergens and debris, keeping skin irritation at bay, especially for those sensitive skin sweethearts.
According to the Animal Humane Society, brushing removes dirt and loose fur while distributing natural oils for a healthier, shinier coat.
Nail trims are often the trigger for some spectacular doggy tantrums, preventing painful overgrowth and posture issues.
Even your pup’s paw pads need extra care to be moisturized and crack-free, especially in extreme weather.
Experts agree it’s a sign of deep emotional connection and trust when your dog allows you to groom them, especially their vulnerable paws.
3. How dogs really learn best
For centuries Philosophers and theorists have debated Machiavelli’s infamous question: Is it better to be loved than feared or feared than loved?
When it comes to your relationship with your pooch, great dog owners know the answer: it’s much better to be loved, and science agrees.
Ethics aside, Punishment-based or negative reinforcement methods can have some very negative effects on your pooch.
Research from the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior highlights that punishment increases your pup’s stress and anxiety levels, which can lead to fear-based aggression or other trauma responses.
Dogs trained with punishment often associate that punishment with their owner rather than the behavior, which can destroy trust in the relationship.
In contrast, a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that pups trained with reward-based methods such as treats or praise displayed fewer signs of stress and had a stronger bond with their humans.
The study also revealed that rewarding your pup when they behave correctly is a more effective training method than punishment.
They’ll learn faster and be much happier and healthier.
2. Why playdates are medicine
We all know dogs are pack animals, social creatures just like us.
Great dog owners ensure their pups have plenty of time and space to interact with others daily.
A key study from the Dog Aging Project revealed that socializing with their humans and other four-legged friends is essential for your pup’s overall health and well-being.
Plus, it boosts their immune system and lowers anxiety levels.
Playdates are fun at any age, but it’s always best to build these connections early.
Multiple studies, including research from the American Veterinary Medical Association, show that puppies exposed to people, animals, and different environments are less likely to develop behavioral problems as they age.
So by taking your pup to the dog park or including them in family activities, you’re giving them a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
1. Life-changing cuddles
Finally, great dog owners know the power of affection to raise a happy and healthy pup.
Research from Frontiers and psychology highlights that physical touch, like petting and cuddling, releases oxytocin, often called the love hormone, in dogs and humans.
Studies also reveal that affectionate gestures reduce stress and anxiety in our fur babies, helping them to feel safe and calm.
Experts agree that positive physical interactions can improve your dog’s confidence and trust in you, and they will absolutely give you affection in return.
Every dog shows affection differently, though.
If you found this blog post insightful be sure to share it with those out there that are still not aware of it
