The internet loves icks—here are the green flags that actually matter for dogs and the humans who love them.
Read time: 4 min
The list (bookmark this) ✅
- Carries water for walks 💧
- Chooses positive reinforcement over punishment 🫶
- Cleans ears & brushes teeth without the drama 🪥
- Respects decompression time (new dogs ≠ instant party) 🧸
- Uses enrichment on rest days (sniff walks > zoomies) 👃
- Checks labels (fragrance-free, no parabens/phthalates) 🧼
- Advocates at the vet (asks Qs, takes notes) 🩺
- Learns body language (lip licks, whale eye, tail base) 👀
- Socializes slowly (quality > quantity) 🤝
- Microchips + ID tags always on 🔒
- Plans for “what if?” (pet sitter backups) 📅
- Keeps training sessions short & fun (2–5 min) 🎯
- Picks harnesses that fit (no chafing) 🦺
- Uses mat training for cafés ☕
- Washes bowls daily (hot water squad) 🍽️
- Respects other dogs’ space (yellow leash = caution) 🟡
- Buys within budget, invests in experiences 💰
- Uplifts rescues & fosters 📣
- Learns one new cue per month 🧠
- Leaves places cleaner than they found them 🧹
- Posts adoptables instead of just aesthetics 🐕🦺
CTA: Comment one green flag you’re proud of, and one you’re working on. Growth era. 🌱