You should make sure that your dog is always properly supervised. It is important to remember that the law requires your dog to wear a collar and identification tag at all times when in a public place.
Train your dog in basic obedience; a well trained dog means a happy dog and a happy owner!
Worm your dog regularly, about every four months. Puppies and bitches with a litter will need to be wormed more frequently – talk to your vet for specific advice
You should get your dog inoculated to protect it from canine diseases – again, you should talk to your vet for more advice
Always clean up after your dog. If you do not, you can face a fine of up to £1000, and if you do not pay, you may be prosecuted
Keep your dog on a lead at all times whilst in public, particularly whilst walking on footpaths next to roads
Think carefully before you buy a dog or give a home to a stray. They are expensive and need a lot of care and attention. If you are sure that a dog is for you, the Council can give advice and information about breed clubs and rescue centres
Make sure you know what the law requires of you
Allow your dog to foul public places
Allow your dog to stray
Leave your dog at home for long periods - they may bark and upset your neighbours or become destructive through distress or boredom
Allow your dog in a public place without wearing a collar with the name and address of its owner inscribed on it or with a disc attached to it. This is an offence, and you could be fined up to £2000
Buy a puppy from a puppy farm – this supports a trade in which puppies and dogs are vulnerable to mistreatment. All reputable breeders are licensed by the Council
Allow your dog to run out of control in public places
Buy a puppy or dog as a present for someone unless you are sure that they want the responsibility, and never buy at Christmas, when people are often too busy to give a puppy the time and attention it needs
