Dogs – Why We Love Them!

What do you love about owning dogs? The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association® (APPMA) gives the top 14 reasons why people enjoy owning a dog.

  1. Many pet owners believe dogs are convenient and easy to maintain
  2. Owners enjoy entering dog shows
  3. Canines make great farm dogs and help with cattle
  4. Dogs are fun to watch and have in the household
  5. Dogs are a good way to teach kids responsibility
  6. Dogs are good for our health and help us to live longer
  7. Owners enjoy hunting with dogs
  8. Dogs keep undesirable animals away
  9. Dogs are like children or family members
  10. Dogs provide therapy/assistance to handicapped or elderly people
  11. Dogs provide relaxation and relieve stress.
  12. Dogs provide security
  13. Dogs make excellent walking, exercising or jogging partners
  14. Dogs provide companionship, love and company

I’m sure there are plenty of other great reasons.  The eternal smile on my Lab Tanner’s face always gives me a lift - his picture is at the top of this post.  Leave a comment and tell me about the reasons you love your dogs.

What about owning a pet business?

Owning a pet business does not guarantee you success, but it is generally not difficult to set up your own pet business adn many who own pet businesses love the hard working lifestyle and the closeness to pets. You will have to compete with those who may be better trained, may have lower cost structures and those who “pretend” to have your skills and experience when they do not. (eg not all those who advertise themselves as groomers are actually Groomers).

Essential skills for working with dogs

There are also key skills that all dog industry professionals should possess. Here are some of the most critical skills and abilities for those hoping to work with dogs professionally: Basic Dog Handling and Training Skills, ability to recognize behavioral signals.

Safety tips for working with animals

Animals can be somewhat unpredictable when they are under stress or in an unfamiliar environment, like when they visit the veterinary office or the grooming salon, so it is important to be attentive and stay aware of the animal you are handling at all times.