7 Needs of A Dog
Dogs and their needs come as a package. You can not separate this unless you want to have stuffed animal. Bringing the dog to your home is followed by both pleasures and duties. Dogs are attached and dependent on us, some of their needs are not able to be fulfilled unless we help and allow them to do so. Responsibilities vary between different breed specification, but in general, we can divide them into 7 categories:
Food
We all know the phrase: ‘You are what you eat’, it is no different with dogs. If you feed your dog poor diet, his health will be poor as well. I am concerned about the quality and quantity of food that many owners offer their dogs. Your dog should not be obese or too skinny, both conditions may drastically affect their health. Nutrition should always choose wisely, I recommend high quality, balanced dog food fed two times a day (puppies should have 3-4 meals per day). Under this category, we also have treats, fruits, vegetables, etc. Be aware that some of the foods we eat may be poisonous to your dog, such as grapes, chocolate, raisins…
Water
Your dog should always have access to fresh and clean water, 24/7. They are mammals, just as are we, and to live we have to stay hydrated. If there is a possibility of your dog being dehydrated, there is a simple test that you can do. Grab a piece of skin on your dog’s back, pull it away from his body. When you let go, notice how the skin goes back into a natural position. If it is immediately returning to the previous place, it is all fine. You should draw concerns when it takes time, let the vet check your dog and start the treatment as soon as possible.
Shelter
Dogs need a place in your house that is the source of comfort. They enjoy den-like places, cozy, small and comfy, this is why most dogs enjoy crates (if properly introduced). Choosing a dog bed should be thought through. Ones that seem to look the fluffiest are usually not the best choice. First of all, they will flatten very soon and give no support to your dog’s body weight and joints. I recommend thick, good quality memory foam bed.
Exercise
Under this category comes all sorts of different exercises, such as walks, hiking, jogging, play dates with other dogs, dog park, running next to a bike, and most important training. Depending on your dog’s level of energy, exercise, and training you will need to provide differentiate. This brings us to choosing the right fit, not by their look, but needs. If you were a couch potato and adopted high energy dog… You would be probably reaching out for me or other professionals, or rehome because you could not control your dog and fulfill his needs.
Enrichment
What stands under this sophisticated word is actually very simple. Improving their welfare, by adding fun and problem-solving aspects of their life and removing boredom. Creativity is the way to go to fulfill your dog’s need of seeking and searching, hide his food in different puzzle toys, kongs, interactive toys, use sniffle mats, spill his food in grass, leaves, snow. Let them work for food. You may do the same with toys, hide his favorite toy around the house and encourage your pup to find it. A big part of dog/s brain is designed to help activate seeking systems, dogs that will not fulfill this need with becoming restless, develop behavior issues like destructive behavior.
Grooming
Depending on your dog’s size, coat, length of fur and personal appearance, frequency, and duration of grooming may vary. One seems to be clear, all dogs need their nails trimmed or cut. Providing this not only improves their life but most importantly it is an amazing opportunity to do a little check-up and make sure our dog is healthy. When you run your fingers through their body and brush fur you will be able to not only see more but feel more. Cleaning your dog’s ears and teeth should also be done regularly.
Basic supplies
Firstly your dog really doesn’t need all the stuff he has. Spoiling dogs is a pretty common thing, you are not the only one! But actually basic supplies your dog needs are bowls, collar/harness, leash, food, few different toys, the place to sleep and… You! Believe me, you are the best supply your dog could ever get. Instead of trying to occupy your dog with new toys, give them yourself. Spend some quality time on a walk, having a fun training session or laying next to each other and petting your pooch.
Dogs are social animals, and even If they are given food, water, and shelter, their emotional welfare demands that they have exercise, company, and stimulation during the day. Responsibilities that lay on us+owners are pretty big. In my opinion, not everybody should be allowed to own pets.
Dog Behavior Specialist
Ewa Hemmy is behaviorist and dog trainer who is also a writer on top of that. She has College Degree in Animal Behavior earned in Poland, where she comes from. She still consistently study, participate in online courses, webinars and reads through most recent research. Ewa has been writing articles for few years now and loves to educate dog owners on providing better care and understanding of their pet. She believes you can solve unwanted behavior, because your DOG is ABLE to be TRAINED! She can be contacted at ewa.hemmy@gmail.com or call at (785) 822 7409.
