Dogs can bring companionship, fun, and unconditional love to their owners. To reciprocate for all of the joy that a dog adds to life, dog owners need to be educated about and fully prepared for responsible ownership and care. There's a lot to know when you're a dog owner, and this comprehensive guide serves as the ultimate reference for owners at all stages of their dogs' lives.

Inside The Ultimate Guide to Dog Care:

*A thorough discussion on what you need to consider before you decide to add a dog to your family

*Sources from where you can obtain a healthy, sound puppy or adult dog

*Checklists and charts to help you buy all of the equipment and supplies you will need before your dog comes home

*How to introduce your new dog to your home, other family members, other dogs, and strangers

*The importance of socialization to a dog's overall personality and confidence

*Complete nutrition for puppies, adults, and senior dogs

*How to groom different coat types and the tools you will need

*Making sure that your dog gets enough exercise for his body and mind, with special sections on organized dog sports and pet-assisted therapy work

*Keeping your dog safe at home and everywhere you go

*Raising a polite canine member of society through reward-based training, communication, and solutions to common problems

*Routine health checks, dealing with parasites, and recognizing and treating illness and injury, with a chapter on care of the older dog