Purchasing a dog can be expensive and carries a lot of responsibilities ; don ’ t take ownership lightly , even if you are adopting . There are also ongoing expenses , especially veterinarian fees . for hunting game , Dobermans and German shepherds for protecting life and property , border collies and cattle dogs for herding livestock , sled dogs and rescue dogs for transportation and human safety . Despite all the different pedigrees , all breeds and mixed breeds have a lot in common — loyalty and eagerness to please , being protective of their masters , and displaying unconditional affection and love .
In our families , a dog is at the bottom of the pecking order , which may be one reason they ’ re always trying to please us . However , research indicates that they actually do love their owners . It ’ s probably true that there are no bad dogs , only bored dogs that can get into mischief , so your job is to make their lives as interesting as possible . House training your dog is important , as well as training them not to jump on people ; one way of discouraging this bad habit is by gently squeezing the dog ’ s front paws , sending a message that this behaviour is not acceptable . You should teach the dog to follow basic commands , like heel , sit ,
stay , come , etc ., for its own protection and to avoid issues with other dogs and people . Discourage your dog from barking at people . You will also need a dog collar that fits , dog tags , and a leash . If your dog has not been properly trained , it ’ s going to be tough to take for a walk ; however , properly trained dogs can be walked by anyone who is familiar with them . Also remember that each dog has its own personality ; some have been impacted by trauma so they could be shy and wary . It ’ s not unheard of for dogs to have phobias .
I don ’ t think that dogs can ever have too many walks . They ’ re gregarious , social creatures that love to get out of the house , explore their surroundings , and encounter other dogs and people . Weather is not an issue — it can be cold , hot , or wet — unless you have a breed that needs a bit of extra protection , like dachshunds which need a body vest and booties . Let them do their thing ( safely ) and you ’ ll discover
Oskar on a dog run
© Jennifer Radford
Furry friends will boost outings and social activity and will likely make you a better person . You ’ ll get more exercise , explore new areas , and meet neighbours .
just how rewarding owning and walking a dog can be !
His old family dog died a while ago , but Duane Radford often walks two of his son ’ s Labrador dogs — Ainsley and
Zoe — sometimes with his wife , and it ’ s always a hoot . His daughter has a dachshund that ’ s quite the character , so dogs are still an important part of his life .
news & views WINTER 2020 | 17