National Pet Month: The Five Fundamentals of Responsible Dog Parenting

National Pet Month 2025 is in full swing. Originally launched in 1989 as National Pet Week, the month-long event aims to promote responsible pet ownership and recognise the incredible bond we share with our animal companions.

With that in mind, this week’s blog is going back to basics and exploring the five key pillars of responsible dog parenting as outlined in the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

As always, I would like to reiterate that I am not a veterinary professional. This blog is based on extensive research and personal experiences, and I always recommend consulting a qualified vet for expert guidance on your dog’s specific needs.

1. The Need for a Suitable Environment

Whether they live in your home or a suitable outbuilding, a safe, comfortable, and hazard-free environment is essential for your dog’s wellbeing.

As naturally inquisitive creatures, they have the potential to put themselves in danger when left to explore unsupervised, so it’s important to dog-proof their surroundings and keep harmful substances and potential dangers well out of reach.

If your dog spends time outdoors, it’s also important to provide a weatherproofed shelter, fresh water, and protection from extreme temperatures. Dogs are vulnerable to heat stress, so during warmer months, avoid leaving them in enclosed areas such as conservatories, vehicles, or balconies, as these spaces can become dangerously hot in a matter of minutes.

Toilet access is another crucial factor, particularly for puppies, senior dogs, and those with medical conditions. Since dogs instinctively avoid soiling their living areas, restricting their ability to relieve themselves can cause distress. Ensuring they have regular, easy access to an appropriate toileting area is essential for both their physical comfort and emotional wellbeing.

2. The Need for a Suitable Diet

Like us, dogs thrive on a diet that meets their individual nutritional needs, as determined by their age, breed, activity level, health conditions, and whether or not they’ve been spayed. While it can be tempting to give into those puppy-dog eyes, meals designed for humans often lack the balanced nutrition they need - and in some cases, can even be harmful! Toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, and onions should always be kept well out of reach.

Keeping your dog hydrated is also essential for their health and wellbeing. Fresh, clean drinking water should always be available, and if necessary, you should carry water in a suitable container to hydrate your dogs on the move.

Revoking access to water, even for short periods, can be harmful and is strongly discouraged unless specifically advised by a vet.

3. The Need to be Housed With, or Apart From, Other Animals

Due to their social nature, dogs thrive on companionship and interaction, and many struggle when left alone for extended periods. While the exact length of time a dog can be left depends on various factors, including age, training, and previous experiences, experts generally recommend that they aren’t left alone for more than four hours at a time.

Socialisation is also vital, especially in the early stages of life. Positive exposure to new people, dogs, animals, environments, and sounds helps puppies grow into well-adjusted, sociable companions. On the other hand, dogs who miss out on these early opportunities - or who have had negative experiences - can become fearful, reactive, or even aggressive in situations that feel unfamiliar or overwhelming.

Multi-dog households (like my own) are a common occurrence throughout the country. If you’re introducing a second dog to your home, it’s important to let them meet on neutral ground and give them time to adjust to each other’s presence. Homes with long-standing canine companions should also provide access to separate safe spaces for each dog to relax and decompress.

4. The Need to be Able to Exhibit Normal Behaviour Patterns

As naturally social animals, dogs learn 'good manners' by interacting with other dogs - especially during the crucial puppy socialisation window of 3 to 16 weeks. But socialisation shouldn’t stop once puppyhood ends - regular interaction, play, and enrichment are essential at all stages of life. That being said, not all dogs enjoy socialising in the same way, and while some thrive in the company of other dogs, others may prefer a quieter life with minimal interaction.

Socialisation, however, is only one of many natural behaviours dogs exhibit to feel safe, happy, and mentally fulfilled. For example, whether they’re alerting us to something unusual, displaying excitement, or simply joining in with the midnight bark, barking is a completely normal form of communication among dogs. Similarly, digging, sniffing, and scavenging all stem from behaviours inherited from their wolf ancestors and are essential for mental and emotional wellbeing. 

By supporting your dog’s natural instincts through play, enrichment, exercise, and rest, you can ensure they lead a balanced, contented life.

5. The Need to be Protected From Pain, Suffering, Injury, and Disease

Protecting our dogs from pain, suffering, injury, and disease is one of the most important responsibilities we take on as pet parents.

Dogs are susceptible to a variety of illnesses and infectious diseases, many of which can be prevented through routine vaccinations. Like us, they also benefit from a consistent healthcare routine, including regular vet check-ups and preventative treatments, such as flea and worming medications. 

Despite not always exhibiting it in the same way, dogs have a similar pain threshold to humans. Subtle signs such as a change in appetite, altered sleeping patterns, or reluctance to play could all signify that something is wrong. As pet parents, we know our dogs best - so always trust your gut and consult your vet if something doesn’t seem quite right.

Spaying and neutering is also highly recommended if you’re not planning to breed your dog, helping to prevent unplanned litters and reduce the risk of certain health issues and behavioural problems. If you are considering breeding, it’s vital to consult your vet first. They can advise you on the risks associated with inherited conditions and exaggerated features.

As of 6th April 2016, it is now a legal requirement in the UK to have your dog microchipped and registered on an approved database, with your details kept up to date. Microchipping is one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your pet - especially if they get lost or injured. Collars can slip off, but a microchip is there for life, significantly improving the chances of a speedy reunion and timely veterinary treatment should the worst happen.

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Responsible Dog Parenting

National Pet Month serves as a poignant reminder that responsible dog parenting goes beyond fancy treats and tummy rubs. As pet parents, we are responsible for ensuring that the physical, emotional, and social needs of our dogs are consistently met - even when other areas of life get in the way. 

Raising Vivienne and Trixie - two very different dogs with very different needs - has taught me that, like all types of parenting, being a dog parent isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present - respecting their instincts, celebrating their quirks, and doing everything I can to make their world a happy one. 

So, whether I’m playing endless games of fetch with Trixie or letting Vivienne sniff her way through her walks, it’s those small, everyday choices that show my girls just how much they matter. Because when it comes down to it, responsible dog parenting is really just love - in action.