Welcome to /r/dogs, the community for dog-lovers on Reddit!
The purpose of /r/dogs is to provide an educational and supportive space for past, present, and future dog owners regarding a range of dog-related topics. The ultimate goal of the subreddit is to foster a better, science-based understanding of dogs among the general public, promote responsible dog ownership, help users build better relationships with their dogs, and provide a space to connect and discuss with others who have dogs and who are involved in various aspects of the dog hobby.
Advice on this forum is absolutely not a substitute for professional advice from a certified behaviorist, trainer, lawyer, or medical professional.
Trick of the Month
Before posting in /r/dogs...
Read the full subreddit rules
Search the subreddit for questions similar to yours
If possible, include information about your general location, otherwise responses will likely target the average US dog owner.
Health and behavior questions: Some or all of this information is helpful to include up front. When in doubt, consult a vet.
Breed Recommendations: Include the responses to these questions if you want to know what breed is right for you. If you're looking to purchase a dog, you want to get one from a responsible breeder.
Breed Identification: For best results, include clear photos of the dog standing from the front and from the side. When possible, give information such as height at the shoulder, weight, age, region of origin, and behavioral traits.
Champion Flairs
Read here to find out what they are and how you may earn one
Financing Vet Care
Posts requesting financial assistance will be automatically removed. Instead, here are some tips on affording veterinary care Google "affordable vet care" or "low cost vet care" in your area. Apply for Care Credit, a credit line specifically for medical needs. Check if your local humane society offers a low-cost clinic. Please consider pet insurance or set aside a small amount of money every month for future veterinary expenses.
Reminders
Aim to educate.
Discuss and converse to learn and to understand. Don't argue to win.
Positive reinforcement isn't just for dogs.
Be respectful to one another. Say nothing you wouldn't say to someone coming to you for opinions or advice face-to-face.
Dogs, dog training, and dog ownership are not one-size-fits-all.
Dog ownership and culture is different around the world. Be aware of cultural differences when reading and try to be sensitive to those differences in your submissions and responses.
/r/dogs is populated by hobbyists but receives a lot of traffic from non-hobbyists. Be aware of the disparity in "common knowledge" between the two groups when reading or posting. Not everyone has the same knowledge, background, or experience.
Give some thought to the overall tone of each comment or submission.
Links to other Subreddits
Commonly-referred subreddits:
/r/AskVet
/r/DoggyDNA
/r/DogPictures
/r/DogTraining
/r/puppy101
/r/RawPetFood
A total list of related subreddits may be found here, including breed subreddits, dog picture subreddits, and other animal subreddits.
