Bark Busters Offers Invaluable Tips on National Pet Owners Month

San Diego, CA, February 11, 2015 --(PR.com)-- Being a good, safe, responsible dog owner takes a time and financial commitment. It’s more than just providing your dog with food and shelter. With February being Responsible Pet Owner Month, Bark Busters wanted to give you some tips for being the best dog owner you can be. Remember that depending on the breed, your dog may be with you for the next 10 – 15 years!

"Too many dogs are abandoned to shelters because their owners have problems with their behaviors," said Sylvia Wilson, CEO of Bark Busters. "With training and consistency, virtually all of these misbehaviors can be overcome."

Things to Consider

· Big vs. small. Choose a breed of dog best suited to your lifestyle and home environment. The decision to get a dog should not be impulsive. It requires planning and much forethought, especially if you are thinking about a puppy. Bigger dogs may need a backyard or a larger space to play and more exercise. Smaller dogs can be more suitable if you live in an apartment and generally cost less to feed.
· Identification. Make sure your dog has identification, either in the form of a tag, tattoo, or microchip. If you move, don’t forget to change the information on his identification.
· Training. Having a dog that misbehaves all the time is exhausting. Know that your dog wants to please you – he just does not know how. Train your dog to obey so you can have a well behaved family pet that you can enjoy for years to come.
· Exercise. All dogs need exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Dogs love to walk, play games and even swim. Plus, it’s good for dog owners too!
· Feeding. Particularly if your dog has any allergies, talk to your vet about the right food for your dog that may change as he goes from puppy to mature. Also, 50% of dogs are obese, so a regulated diet can help him stay at the proper weight.
· Laws. Different states and counties have different laws regarding pets in terms of registration. It is important to obey all local ordinances including licensing and leash requirements.
· Checkups. Just like an infant needs well baby checks, your puppy/dog need to see your vet annually and be up-to-date on shots and vaccinations.
· Spay/Neuter. Studies have shown that pets that are spayed and neutered live healthier, longer lives. Plus, spayed a neutered pets are less likely to develop behavior problems like aggression. Unless you want to breed your dog, consider having it spayed/neutered to help prevent the overpopulation of pets.

And most importantly, love your pet. You are the center of his universe and he craves your affection and attention.

About Bark Busters:
Bark Busters, the world's largest, most trusted dog training company, started in Australia in 1989 and came to the United States in 2000. Since inception, more than 1 million dogs have been trained worldwide using its dog-friendly, natural methods. With 180 franchised offices in 40 states and more than 350 offices in 8 countries, Bark Busters is continuing its mission to build a global network of dog behavioral therapists to enhance responsible dog ownership and reduce the possibility of maltreatment, abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. Bark Busters is the only international dog training company that offers guaranteed lifetime support. To fetch a trainer in your area, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com where dog owners can complete a Dog Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.