Dogs – Why We Love Them!

What do you love about owning dogs? The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association^®(APPMA) gives the top 14 reasons why people enjoy owning a dog.

Many pet owners believe dogs are convenient and easy to maintain
Owners enjoy entering dog shows
Canines make great farm dogs and help with cattle
Dogs are fun to watch and have in the household
Dogs are a good way to teach kids responsibility
Dogs are good for our health and help us to live longer
Owners enjoy hunting with dogs
Dogs keep undesirable animals away
Dogs are like children or family members
Dogs provide therapy/assistance to handicapped or elderly people
Dogs provide relaxation and relieve stress.
Dogs provide security
Dogs make excellent walking, exercising or jogging partners
Dogs provide companionship, love and company

I’m sure there are plenty of other great reasons. The eternal smile on my Lab Tanner’s face always gives me a lift - his picture is at the top of this post. Leave a comment and tell me about the reasons you love your dogs.

Owning a pet business does not guarantee you success, but it is generally not difficult to set up your own pet business adn many who own pet businesses love the hard working lifestyle and the closeness to pets. You will have to compete with those who may be better trained, may have lower cost structures and those who “pretend” to have your skills and experience when they do not. (eg not all those who advertise themselves as groomers are actually Groomers).

There are also key skills that all dog industry professionals should possess. Here are some of the most critical skills and abilities for those hoping to work with dogs professionally: Basic Dog Handling and Training Skills, ability to recognize behavioral signals.

Animals can be somewhat unpredictable when they are under stress or in an unfamiliar environment, like when they visit the veterinary office or the grooming salon, so it is important to be attentive and stay aware of the animal you are handling at all times.