10 Ways To Become A Better Cockapoo Owner

If your cockapoo could speak, how happy would he say he is with you as an owner? If he was a friend, would he want to hang around with you all the time, or would he prefer a different BFF?

Owning a dog, or any pet for that matter is a huge responsibility that takes a lot of commitment and time. There are feeding, grooming, and visits to the vet. Also, you need to be able to spend time with your pet.

Every day, we strive to be better people, partners, employees, employers, parents and friends. We need to do the same when it comes to owning a cockapoo. Look at our easy ways of becoming a better person to your ‘poo.

1. Don’t hit your cockapoo

While this seems like a no-brainer, people still think hitting their dog is okay. It’s not under any circumstances.

Nothing good comes from this; all you’ll have is a pet that’s scared of you. Take the time to train them, spend time with them and always show compassion, patience and love. If there comes a time you feel like you want to hit your dog, take a step back and remind yourself how many times he’s forgiven you.

2. Spend time with them

If you think about it in human terms, the relationship generally fails if you don’t spend time with a friend. The same goes for your cockapoo. They don’t care how you do it or what you do with them; they want to be with you.

Take them for training classes, go for walks after work and go on outings on the weekend. Let them run in the park or on the beach. Play ball with them in the park. Not only is this quality time essential, but it’s also essential they get their exercise.

3. Supply better dog food

Your cockapoo deserves the best nutrition your money can buy. By no means are we saying you need to get the most expensive food on the market, but don’t skimp.

Check that what you’re feeding your best friend has the necessary nutrients and meets the AAFCO or PFMA health guidelines. Is it the right food for a cockapoo? Is it right for the age of your dog? Does your dog have any specific dietary needs? These are all the questions you need to be asking. If unsure then ask your vet or local pet shop. You can also check dog food reviews from this reliable site. If cost is an issue, then maybe treat your dog to premium organic food now and then. Also, don’t forget the treats. They’re necessary, and they need to be healthy too.

4. They need their own space

Like us, dogs love having a space to call their own. You know, that little corner of tranquillity, that mat that makes everything feel better?

Ensure your cockapoo has an area that’s theirs and theirs alone, whether it’s a comfy dog crate, a blanket or bed in the corner of the TV room, a spot on the floor in your bedroom, or even a cosy kennel outside in the garden. What we don’t mean is locking them outside all day and night and leaving them on their own constantly.

5. Regular visits to the vet is a must

It’s your responsibility to make sure your cockapoo is as healthy and as happy as possible, and this means regular visits to the vet.

They will check for lumps, suggest supplements, help assess behaviour changes, and do overall check-ups. Also, if you can see your dog isn’t quite itself, then consultation is a priority, not something to ‘get to later’. Regular visits are quick and inexpensive and will reduce the risk of any major long-term health problems creeping up on you.

6. Look after their teeth

Studies show that almost 80% of dogs in the US will have oral disease by the time they’re three years old.

Dental problems don’t just mean bad breath and yellow teeth. Oral disease in dogs can affect their overall health, including heart, liver and kidney problems. Look after your pooch’s teeth like you do yours. Brush daily with a doggie toothbrush and toothpaste to get rid of tartar, check for cavities or other problems regularly and see a vet when there is an issue.

7. Never leave them alone in the car

Never leave your dog in the car alone. Plan so you can avoid this at all costs.

No matter how quickly you will pop into the shop, it’s unfair and dangerous for your dog to be on its own in the car. Besides the obvious dangers of them freezing to death in winter or suffocating in summer, there’s also a chance of them being stolen. It happens far more often than you think; the leaving of pets in cars, them dying from exposure to the elements and being stolen. Please don’t do it.

8. They need friends

Your best friend needs other best friends too. Dogs, by nature, are social and love being with other dogs.

The best way to start, especially if you have a puppy, is by joining a socialization class. This will get your pup used to others and stand you in good stead down the line. If you live close to a park, visit it regularly. Chances are there are loads of dog owners also looking for pals for their pets. Or search local community sites and Facebook pages to learn about meet-ups and play-dates. If you’re at work during the day, consider a doggie day-care, so he’s not on his own or maybe send him once or twice a week to beat the boredom blues.

9. Practice grooming

Another obvious but not-so-obvious way of being a better cockapoo owner is regular grooming. Keeping your dog clean and well-groomed comes with owning a pet.

You can do it yourself, which counts as time spent together or getting a professional to help. However, ensure your pet likes it and isn’t traumatized by the experience. If necessary, find a mobile groomer that comes to you.

10. Plan for the future

This might seem strange, but remember, we’re not here forever, and anything can happen. Take the time to plan for the future should you not be around for your pet.

Have a plan that someone will look after your dog should something ever happen to you. The last thing you want is for your best friend ending up in a shelter or worse.

Now ask yourself: if your cockapoo could choose any owner in the world, would he choose you repeatedly?

What have you done to become the very best cockapoo owner you can be? We love hearing from you, so feel free to share your ideas and tips in the comments below.