What many dog owners don’t realize is that routine veterinary care is not enough to ensure a dog’s optimal health and happiness. Other factors essential for the dog’s physical and mental health are sufficient exercise and a properly balanced diet appropriate to the dog’s lifestyle, activity level, and temperament. Dogs also benefit from having a clear line of communication between themselves and their owners. They are at their best when they have confidence in their owners’ ability to exercise leadership—including the use of humane forms of restraint when necessary. They also respond well to having a clear understanding of what’s required of them and what their place is in the family unit.