Adequate food daily.

Free access to clean drinking water at all times.

Shelter from the elements and sufficient exercise.

Control of the dog for it's own safety.

Veterinary care as required.

First and probably most important of all, unless you're planning to breed your dog, you should look into spaying or neutering your pet. Every year, too many unwanted pets and accidental litters have to be put down. As a responsible pet owner, it is your duty to help control this practice on your end.

Did you know that dogs are susceptible to about sixty different types of diseases? Twenty of those diseases are transmittable to humans. To help protect your dog (and yourself) against these diseases, make sure your dog is protected by vaccination.

Feeding your dog a well-balanced diet is certainly necessary to keep him fit and healthy. But other activities such as exercise, grooming, training and regular visits to the veterinarian are just as important.

Exercising with your dog not only strengthens the bond you two share, it also helps control his weight and maintain a healthy heart, lungs and muscles. This can also really benefit you aswell, walking your dog helps to lower the chance of health problems. It also helps to maintain your mental fitness and enables you to keep tension free.

As you exercise with your dog, consider his needs and present physical condition. Leisurely walks may be best for an older dog while a young dog has ample energy for a vigorous exercise program.

A dog is more than just a pet. It is a friend you can always count on when things go wrong and no one seems to care. Having a dog for a pet is not just about feeding it and giving it a good home. It also takes maintenance to keep that dog strong and fit.

Spending time with man's best friend will further deepen the relationship between you. It tells the dog that you love being with it and by either playing or working together; it strengthens the communication, understanding and respect between man and animal. A good relationship is built on love and trust.