Dogs Trust and the RSPCA have launched a new Dog Ownership Guide (DOG), designed to give both new and experienced dog owners a clearer and more consistent understanding of responsible dog ownership.
The guide was launched during a joint summit hosted by the two charities and sets out a shared definition of what it means to own and care for a dog responsibly.
About the Dog Ownership Guide
The Dog Ownership Guide has been developed by Dogs Trust and the RSPCA to promote responsible dog ownership throughout every stage of a dog’s life.
Rather than focusing on individual issues, the guide brings together the key principles of good dog ownership into one resource.
It is built around five themes:
- Good Life
- Safe and Secure
- Good Citizen
- Lifetime Commitment
- Community
The charities hope the guide will encourage happier dogs, stronger relationships between dogs and their owners, and fewer dog control incidents over time.
About responsible dog ownership
Responsible dog ownership goes beyond providing food and exercise.
The guide encourages owners to consider their dog’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, behaviour, training, safety and lifelong care, while also recognising the responsibilities that come with owning a dog in the wider community.
It also promotes reward-based training, preventative healthcare and planning ahead for changes that may affect a dog’s care.
What this means
By creating a shared definition of responsible dog ownership, Dogs Trust and the RSPCA hope to provide consistent advice that can be used by dog owners, veterinary professionals, trainers and animal welfare organisations.
The guide is intended to support better understanding of dog welfare while helping owners make informed decisions throughout their dog’s life.
What this means for dog owners
Whether you’re welcoming your first puppy or have owned dogs for years, the guide provides practical advice that can help support your dog’s health, behaviour and welfare.
It also encourages owners to think about the long-term commitment of dog ownership and how everyday decisions can affect both their own dog and the wider community.
Read the Dog Ownership Guide
Whether you’re preparing for your first dog or already have years of experience, the Dog Ownership Guide offers practical advice to help you make informed decisions throughout your dog’s life. You can download the guide free from the Dogs Trust website.
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Looking to adopt a dog?
If you’re considering adopting a dog, take a look at the Dogs Trust rehoming centres listed on Yappily. You’ll find information about locations across the UK, the rehoming process and dogs currently looking for their forever homes.
FAQs
What is the Dog Ownership Guide?
The Dog Ownership Guide (DOG) is a free resource created by Dogs Trust and the RSPCA to provide a shared definition of responsible dog ownership.
Who is the guide for?
The guide is designed for both new and experienced dog owners, as well as anyone thinking about getting a dog.
What topics does the guide cover?
The guide focuses on five key themes: Good Life, Safe and Secure, Good Citizen, Lifetime Commitment and Community.
Is the guide free?
Yes. The Dog Ownership Guide can be downloaded free of charge from the Dogs Trust website.
Why was the guide created?
Dogs Trust and the RSPCA say the guide aims to create a more consistent understanding of responsible dog ownership, helping improve dog welfare and reduce dog control incidents over time.
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