Ten Commandments of Dog Ownership

Tracy, a loyal, protective mutt.

I have seen the "10 Commandments of Dogs" around the web for quite a while, but I've always thought that it's incredibly important to remember our duties with our dogs, beyond feeding them and keeping them healthy.

1. You will treasure your dog - for he is a unique being, just like you. The moment you met was a beautiful casualty, and you should consider yourself lucky for finding a such a loyal, loving partner. Remember his time on this Earth will be, at most, 15 years, and it's your duty to make them count, for your dog lives for you. 
2. You will communicate with your dog - Dogs are not born speaking human languages, Spike doesn't know that "Come!" means "stop smelling the bushes and run back to me", but he does know what your body tells him when you are happy, sad or angry. Every moment you spend with him, you are communicating. See how he reacts to your slight mood swings, try to see the world from his eyes, and you'll be amazed with what you'll notice!
3. You will teach your dog - Life with humans is very different from life with a dog pack, and the rules your dog is programmed to obey might not be the rules you need him to obey to live in your apartment. Teach your dog what you want him to do and ignore his bad behaviors, if he knows and understands your set of rules, he will be able to have a calm, happy life. The only way for a dog to be safe in our world, is for him to be trained. 
4. You will remember that your dog never lies - lying is something very complex, and it seems only humans and some apes are capable of deceiving one another. Though the truth might be harsh, your dog won't even offer you a white lie. Use this to your advantage, your dog knows who you are, and is willing to tell you the truth. Ask him: Am I doing this right?
5. You will not blame your dog for your mistakes - Remember that most of the time, when your dog misbehaves it is probably because you didn't teach him well enough, he either didn't know what he was supposed to do, or he doesn't like to obey you, which is also your fault. Don't get angry, and try to mend things. It is better to teach the correct way, rather than punish the wrong one.
6. You will be patient - remember your dog lives in a setting he can't quite understand, humans speak a foreign language and have weird habits, which might confuse your dog. Be gentle and patient, give your dog time to process new things and experiences, and if your dog does not understand what you want, ask yourself: am I communicating effectively? If you arrived home angry and sulky, spare your dog and take a deep breath; he's been waiting for you all day. 
7. You will listen to your dog - your dog has feelings as well as needs, keep an eye on his expression, the softness of his eyes, the posture he holds, the wag of his tail. Answer to his feelings, and remember he is communicating with complete honesty. Give him your time, attention and affection.
8. You will never hurt him - your dog has quite a set of teeth on his mouth, capable of ripping your arm if he so desired (or at least, inflicting some serious wounds on you!), yet he doesn't hurt you. Give him love; punishments and corrections won't build anything good.
9. You will show him the world - your dog was never meant to be kept in your apartment or house, bounded and unable to explore. Your dog deserves to know the world, take him on walks and car drives, go to new places and let him meet other people and dogs. Both of you will grow with these experiences. And remember: a tired dog is a calm dog!
10. You will love him and forgive him - he always loves you, and he always forgives you. You should do the same.