How To Become A 10/10 Dog Owner
Being a dog owner comes with a ton of rewards—endless snuggles, wagging tails, and that look of pure joy when you walk through the door.
But let’s be real: owning a dog is also a big responsibility. If you want to go from a good dog owner to a 10/10 dog owner, there are some key things you need to know and do.
Spoiler alert: it’s not just about feeding and walking your pup (though that’s important too).
1. Understand Your Dog’s Needs (And Meet Them)

Let’s start with the basics—every dog has specific needs that go beyond food and water. Each breed, age, and individual dog is different. Some dogs are super active and need tons of exercise, while others are more laid back and enjoy quiet time.
For example, owning a Border Collie? You better be ready to provide plenty of mental stimulation and physical activity because they have energy for days. Meanwhile, a Bulldog may be more of a couch potato, loving short walks but mostly snuggling up next to you.
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2. Provide Proper Nutrition (No, Not Just Table Scraps)

We all love spoiling our dogs, but treating your dog like a trash compactor for leftover food isn’t doing them any favors. If you want to be a top-tier dog owner, focus on providing high-quality, balanced nutrition that supports your dog’s overall health.
Choose dog food that’s rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Some dogs may benefit from probiotics, others may need specific nutrients based on health conditions, age, or activity level. And please, before feeding your dog human food, check if it’s safe. Chocolate, grapes, onions? Hard no.
Bonus tip: Talk to your vet about specific nutrition tips for your breed. Labrador Retrievers, for example, are prone to obesity, so portion control is essential!
3. Exercise: Keep Your Dog Fit and Happy

Exercise isn’t just about burning off energy—it’s about keeping your dog mentally and physically healthy. Even low-energy breeds need regular walks to stay fit and stimulated. Without enough activity, dogs can become bored, which often leads to destructive behaviors.
Do you live with an energetic breed like a Siberian Husky or a Beagle? You’re probably going to need more than just one 15-minute stroll around the block. Hiking, playing fetch, agility courses, or even dog puzzles can make a huge difference.
Top dog owners find ways to incorporate fun exercise into daily life. Not only does it keep your dog healthy, but it also strengthens the bond between you two.
4. Train Your Dog (Even If They’re Super Cute)

It doesn’t matter if you own the cutest dog in the world (though I’m sure you do)—every dog benefits from basic training. A well-behaved dog is not just a joy to live with, but they’re also safer and happier. Simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” can be life-saving in certain situations.
Training isn’t just for puppies, by the way. If you’ve got an older dog who’s not behaving, it’s never too late to teach them. Positive reinforcement works wonders—treats, praise, and lots of belly rubs. Consistency is key, and being patient will pay off.
If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to call in a professional dog trainer. There’s no shame in getting help to make sure your dog is happy and well-behaved.
5. Socialize Your Dog Early and Often

A 10/10 dog owner ensures their dog is well-socialized. Dogs need to feel comfortable around other people, pets, and new environments. Without proper socialization, dogs can become anxious or even aggressive in new situations.
Start socializing your dog when they’re young, exposing them to different sounds, sights, people, and other animals. If you’ve adopted an older dog that didn’t get much socialization, take things slow, but don’t neglect it.
Regular trips to the dog park, puppy classes, or playdates with other dogs are great ways to help them build confidence and socialize. Trust me, a well-socialized dog is a happier and more relaxed dog.
6. Regular Vet Visits Are a Must

No one likes going to the doctor, but routine vet visits are crucial to being a responsible dog owner. Even if your dog seems perfectly healthy, regular check-ups can catch potential health problems early on.
Keep up with vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, dental care, and any other recommendations your vet might have. Don’t forget about spaying and neutering if you haven’t already—this helps prevent unwanted litters and can have health benefits for your dog.
Pro tip: Many dogs don’t love the vet (understandably), so make sure to reward them with their favorite treat or toy afterward. Positive associations can go a long way in reducing their anxiety.
7. Provide Mental Stimulation (Because Bored Dogs Are Trouble)

Dogs need mental exercise just as much as they need physical exercise. Without it, they can become bored—and a bored dog is a dog looking for trouble. Chewing furniture, barking excessively, digging… sound familiar?
Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and teaching new tricks are excellent ways to keep your dog’s brain engaged. Breeds like Border Collies and German Shepherds especially thrive with mental challenges. Even a simple game of hide and seek (you can hide their toys or treats) can keep them entertained and happy.
8. Love and Affection (But Don’t Forget Boundaries)

We all love to spoil our dogs with affection, and that’s great! But being a 10/10 dog owner also means knowing when to set boundaries. Too much of anything isn’t good, and this goes for attention too. Dogs thrive on structure and consistency.
Give your dog all the love in the world, but remember to stay firm with training and rules. It’ll make both your lives easier.
9. Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Lastly, being a top-notch dog owner means always being prepared. Emergencies happen, and having a plan is key. Keep a pet first aid kit handy, know the location of the nearest emergency vet, and make sure your dog is microchipped or has an ID tag with updated information.
Pet insurance is also worth considering. It can save you from hefty bills if your dog needs unexpected medical attention.
Final Thoughts: Aim for That 10/10
Being a 10/10 dog owner is about more than just the basics—it’s about understanding, caring for, and bonding with your dog in ways that make their life (and yours) better. You don’t have to be perfect, but striving to meet your dog’s physical, emotional, and mental needs will set you on the path to dog-parent greatness. Remember, your dog thinks you’re a 10/10 already, so why not live up to the title? 🐾

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉