If you are going to own a dog, then you might as well be the best dog owner ever. 

Here are the ten ways to do it. 

Pets are fantastic and bring so much to your life. Whether it is a dog, cat, parrot, or snake. There is a perfect pet out there for everyone. 

So, the first decision is, is a dog the right pet for you?

Dogs are excellent, and the moniker "Man's Best Friend" is well known for a reason… it is true. 

They are loving, caring, smart, adaptable, helpful, fun, and entertaining. 

However, let's be real. It's not all rainbows and unicorns. Having a dog does require some work and adaptions to your current lifestyle. But if you are prepared to make them, you have a canine that will improve so many aspects of your life both physically and mentally. 

Let us have a look at some of the decisions you are going to want to make sure you are going to be the best fur parent you can be: 

• BREED: What breed would best suit the life you can give it. Think about the things you like doing and want to do with your furball. If you don't like walking far, don't get a Husky because they require much walking. If you're going to do Canicross or Dog Agility, then don't get a Chihuahua. So, don't fall into the trap of getting a dog you think looks cute. Research into the general personalities of a breed and make a wise and informed choice. This gives the best chance of you and your dog building a long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationship. 

• AGE: There are two main options. You can get a puppy from a breeder. Or you can adopt a rescue dog from a Shelter. If you choose adoption, you can adopt a wide range of ages, from puppies to elderly dogs. If you are interested in helping shape a doggie's full lifecycle, then a puppy may be best for you. Or if you don't have the time to housetrain a dog fully, then a rescue might be a better option. 

• WORK: A doggo is a great companion for retired people, but it is a fact of life that many dog owners have to work. If you have to do, then what are your arrangements with your dog during this time. Will you leave it at home on its own? If so, how long will they be gone for, and is this fair to the dog? For instance, puppies should not be left alone for very long at all. A large adult dog may be able to last by itself between a standard 9 to 5 job. But is it fair to do so? Are there other alternatives you could consider, like professional dog walkers and doggie daycare? 

• HOLIDAYS: If you enjoy multiple transatlantic holidays every year or have to travel abroad for work a lot. You will need to consider how and who is going to look after your dog during this time. Will a family member be doing it, and are they always available, or are you going to have to use dog sitters or kennels? Too much upheaval like this may be stressful for the dog, and they will miss you, so that needs to be considered. If you are prepared to stay within your own country and maybe take up camping. Then that is ideal because dogs love camping, and they can come on all your holidays. Plus, there are a lot of dog-friendly hotels and cottages nowadays.

• EXPENSES: Owning a dog can be costly, but in the end, it is gratifying, and it is worth it. But you need to factor in the cost and make sure you can afford to give your new fur baby the best life possible. Just like in your life, there are upfront purchases and monthly purchases, like buying from a breeder, adoption costs, crate and bedding, harnesses, collars, leads and leashes, vaccinations, insurance, toys, and food. There are also dog-specific costs like grooming. Some dogs have short fur that doesn't cast, some have long hair that you need to brush daily, and some dogs like Poodles need professional trimming. 

• DOG TRAINING: A happy dog is a well-trained dog, well-rounded in a range of different situations. They should know when and where they can go to the toilet and where they can sleep. Training is not just about making them fit into your life. It is about keeping them safe, secure, and happy. It would help if you considered where you are and what you want to do. For example, if you live in a busy city, it is probably best that you teach your dog to walk on a leash. If you live in the countryside, you may want to teach it to walk to heel without a lead. Always use positive reinforcement like treats, cuddles, or clickers. Never be aggressive. Training should be educational and not stressful. 

Make choices that are in the best interests of you and your dog, and you will end up with decisions that are beneficial for both of you.

If the owner and the dog are happy with the lifestyle, you will have unconditional love from an extraordinary friend.

And if you have never owned a dog before, be patient and give it time. There will be many changes in your life, but they will nearly all be positive.

Happy dog-owning 😊