Many people like the idea of owning a dog.  They are loving, loyal and good company.  However, you shouldn’t rush into acquiring one without first considering the work involved in dog care.

It is not enough to just feed and water a dog.  They need daily exercise, which with some breeds will be more than once per day, and regular dog grooming.  How frequently you will need to groom your dog will depend a lot on the length of its coat.  Long haired dogs will need brushing daily to keep their coat in good condition and prevent dirt and tangles from building up.  Shorter haired dogs will only need brushing every few days.  All pet stores carry a huge variety of dog brushes, made to cope with everything from short wiry coats to long, flyaway ones.

Once you have chosen the best dog brush for your pet, start by brushing him from his neck following the lie of his coat.  If you find a mat then try to work out the worst of it with your fingers and then use the brush to remove the rest.

Some dogs will need to have their coats clipped to keep them under control.  Dog clippers can be bought with a variety of fittings depending on whether you want to just clip the underbelly or whole coat.  Remember to brush out any dirt and grit first or the clippers will quickly become blunt.

As well as grooming there are several other areas to consider when thinking about owning a dog.  Firstly, what equipment will be needed other than food and drink bowls.  A comfortable dog kennel is advised to make your dog feel secure and these come in many types from portable to outdoor.  If you work full time then it may also be sensible to look into some sort of doggie day care, so that your pet is cared for while you are out of the house.