Responsible dog ownership means more than just loving your dog. Dog ownership is a serious commitment that consists of vital duties.Most important millions of pets are euthanized each year because of pet overpopulation. If you do not have your dog spayed or neutered you may be contributing to this problem. If your dog is suitable for breeding, be a responsible breeder. If you do not intend to breed, please spay and neuter your pet as soon as they are of age to avoid any unplanned litters. Raising a litter of puppies is not all fun and games and requires 24 hour care.

If you choose to breed your dog, be sure to educate yourself on breeding. Your dog should be a quality, healthy purebred with no congenital or hereditary problems. Educate yourself about breeding standards, and find a veterinarian who can be involved along the way, don't wait until your dog is in distress in the middle of the night to find a vet. Reputable breeders have years of experience and education. Breeding dogs is not just a hobby, it is a way of life.

Spend as much time with your dog as possible, if you live in an apartment and work full time and have a busy schedule, a dog may not be for you. It's not fair to your pet to leave them home alone all day waiting for you to come home. If this is the case consider getting another pet to keep each other company. Dogs are social animals and need companionship.

Never leave your dog in your car unattended. Keep you dog on a leash or in a fenced yard when outside, always keep your dog current on vaccinations especially annual rabies vaccinations. If expense is an issue (as it is for all of us) check your local paper for low cost vaccination clinics in your area. There is no excuse not to have your dog vaccinated for rabies. Remember dogs give us unconditional love, the least you can do for your dog is give him a happy, healthy life