Adopting a dog is pretty much like taking on the responsibility of raising a child. It is a wonderful experience, but there are so many things you need to get right if you want your dog to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilled life.

In this article we discuss five basic things that every dog needs. This is not an all-inclusive list, but if you cover these five areas, you’ll have gone a long way towards being the best guardian you can be.

The Best Nutrition

Let’s begin by discussing nutrition. Basically, this comes down to one of three options, you could feed your dog branded dog food, cook your own dog food, or feed your dog on a raw food diet. As most dog guardians don’t have time for the other two, so they’ll likely end up feeding their dog a branded kibble. No problem with that of course, but the quality of these foods vary greatly. It is always best to feed your dog a quality brand, which will usually be a premium or super premium product. Discuss this with your vet before deciding.

Veterinary Care

Your dog’s health is your responsibility, from the initial puppy shots to annual check-ups and booster vaccinations. You also need to consider whether you can afford to pay for intensive veterinary care should your dog suffer an injury or become seriously ill. The cost can be exorbitant, so it is strongly advised that you take out a pet health insurance policy.

Exercising Your Dog

Whether you have a hyperactive terrier or a laid-back mastiff, your dog needs exercise! Make sure that you have time in your busy schedule to walk the dog, and the fitness levels required to keep up.

Your choice of breed is of the utmost importance. Don’t get a Border Collie if you can only spare an hour a day for exercising the dog. Lack of exercise is the number one reason behind canine behavioral problems, so do your research.

Obedience TrainingLike exercise, all dogs need at least basic obedience training, and most dogs actually enjoy learning new things. Training provides your dog with mental stimulation, discipline and exercise. It teaches him his place in the pack and contributes to bonding.

Make sure that you only ever use positive training methods, and do it consistently if you want to succeed.

Affection and Companionship

As animals used to living in packs, dogs crave companionship and interaction. Don’t exclude your dog from family activities, he wants and needs to be at the center of things, not left outside all alone. This is incredibly cruel, and borders on abuse.

By addressing your dog’s needs in these five areas you’ll be giving your him the life he deserved. The payoff? A lifetime of fun, joy and companionship with your best friend.

To find out more about dog training, dog care, facts about dogs and other interesting dog info visit dogsanddogtraining.com