The discussion about a suitability assessment for dog owners has arisen in recent years for several good reasons. A central aspect is the steadily increasing number of those who do not inform themselves sufficiently about the daily needs of their four-legged friends (even in advance). This trend is leading to growing concern about the species-appropriate keeping and training of dogs. In addition, there are repeated cases of aggressive behavior, which raises questions about safety.
Incorrect training or inadequate socialization inevitably leads to behavioral problems. Those incidents in the media in which dogs have injured other living beings create a new awareness of the need for trained and responsible behavior as a dog owner. The social discourse then also raises the question of how legal regulations could help to ensure that animals are simply better cared for.
When it is better not to get a dog
Dogs require a considerable amount of attention, care and training. If you are very busy at work, travel a lot or have irregular working hours, it can be difficult to meet the needs of your loyal friend. Dogs are social animals that need regular exercise, mental stimulation and loving attention. Keeping a dog not only entails the purchase costs, but also ongoing expenses for food, veterinary care and vaccinations.
If the budget is already tight, additional financial burdens are not always bearable. If there are disagreements within the family or existing allergies, you should carefully consider whether a dog can really enrich your life. In a small apartment without access to a garden or enough exercise opportunities nearby, it is usually difficult to lead a happy and fulfilling dog life.
A dog needs attention
The need for physical activity varies depending on breed and age, but in general a dog should get daily walks, playtime and opportunities to explore its surroundings. Sufficient exercise can burn off excess energy, which prevents certain behavioral problems such as excessive barking or destruction of furniture. Dogs are naturally social creatures who value the company of both humans and other dogs (e.g. through play groups).
Basic commands and obedience are important to ensure that the dog is safe and well integrated into society. Although training can be done on your own or through informal methods with a lot of patience and personal commitment, many dog owners opt for a dog school or targeted individual and group training under professional supervision. Ultimately, success depends on both the attention of the dog owner and the individual personality of the dog.
Neglect and the negative effects
If dogs suffer from malnutrition, this can lead to serious complications. On the other hand, being overweight because they may not get enough exercise also increases the risk of health problems. Neglected dogs can develop anxiety, aggression or destructive behavior, often as a result of boredom, social isolation and a lack of positive interaction. In the long term, they lose trust in people.
Unfortunately, some people only admit to themselves much too late that they are actually overwhelmed by the situation. The emotional stress on both the dog and the owner and the consequences of neglect are already well advanced. It is crucial that dog owners seek professional help in good time and get the necessary support from their environment in order to ensure the mutual well-being of both humans and animals.
