There’s a lot that goes into the decision to welcome a dog into your life and your family, and there are endless opinions on the subject of raising your pup. Pet ownership is a commitment, if you’re getting a puppy make sure you have a commitment as strong as you would have with your own (human) child. That means loving your pet after the puppy stage, into their naughty energetic teens and then in their golden years. When thinking about getting a pup consider how a dog will fit your life (and how you will fit theirs). Dog ownership can be extremely gratifying, but it’s also a big responsibility. Here, we have introduced some tips for you which may help you.
Consider your lifestyle and choose the right doggo
If you work long hours and find it hard to break away during the day, a puppy is probably not for you because of the amount of time and constant attention they demand. A dog with high energy levels is likely not the right choice for someone who’s not interested in outdoor exercise. No matter what kind of dog you choose, though, it’s important to remember this: every dog needs exercise, training, and mental stimulation. Dog lovers may get a small breed dog, figuring that they’ll be happy being carried everywhere. But tiny dogs need just as much training as other dogs. And while some dogs will be happy with a few walks a day, many others need much more physical activity. You have to devote a part of each day for your dog’s activities. Ask yourself few questions:
- Do you have enough time in your life and schedule—and are you interested enough—to spend time walking with, and training your dog daily? Many dogs need at least one hour of exercise each day and no dog should be expected to spend long days alone in their crate. Think about early mornings, rainy days, and your travel schedule. If you can’t accommodate multiple walks a day, factor in what extra help you may need.
- Will your home accommodate a dog? That not only means can your physical space accommodate a dog and the occasional mess, but, does everyone in your house want a dog, and will they all play a part in raising them?
- Will you be able to provide ongoing veterinary care, which can include not just annual checkups, vaccines, parasite prevention and treatment, but possibly emergency care?
You may also consider adopting a senior dog. Older dogs have fewer requirements of workouts and they’re also more likely to be trained, and less likely to have the relentless go-go lifestyle of a puppy or young dog. And they surely deserve to spend their last few years with a loving and caring family. So, if you’re looking for a new canine companion that will provide all of the love with fewer growing pains, and thinking to give the deserved love in the golden years to a dog who needs it, you might consider adopting a senior dog.
Prepare some questions for the shelter staff
As dogs cannot speak to you about themselves, get few questions prepared for the shelter staff about everything from the dog’s history and personality to whether they’re house trained or have any unique medical needs or behavioural issues that will need to be addressed. This will help you better understand about your new family member and whether he or she would be a perfect match for you and your family or not.
Get the supplies & services ready
When you finally meet your potential adoptee, stocking up the essential supplies is the next step.
Food: Choose the right food for your dog that caters to their nutritional requirements based on any health issue they may have. A subscription service that delivers fresh and healthy food (which is most important) to your door will eliminate at least your tensions about the food.
Treats: Tasty treats will be an important factor while training your dog. But be careful with handing out unhealthy, highly processed, calorie-dense treats (treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake).
A collar and leash: Get a correct size martingale collar, if you are working with a trainer they will also recommend the right collar for the specific needs.
Bedding: It doesn’t have to be fancy, but be sure to provide your dog a soft place to lie down and a place to sleep. If your dog suffers from any joint problem or he or she is a senior dog then you may require an orthopedic dog bed.
Toys: Toys are important for dogs too, just like human babies. Dogs like humans get bored easily and must be kept busy in activities that lead to a healthy body and happy mind. Toys provide physical and mental stimulation to banish idleness and the negative behaviors associated with it.
A baby gate: If your dog has issues with stairs, or you want to limit their range in your home while training, a baby gate can be a helpful addition.
Grooming essentials: Although you might prefer to visit the grooming salon but keeping few grooming essential at home is always better. Dog shampoo & conditioner (be sure to buy a gentle, vet-approved shampoo), a good hair brush, dog toothpaste & toothbrush (use only dog toothpaste, human toothpaste can be toxic to dogs).
Don’t forget to have a dog-tag ready with your pup’s name and your family’s contact information on it.
Dog-proof your home
If you’re an experienced dog owner, you know the drill. If not, look for anything in your home or garden that can be harmful. Think about: electrical wires, cleaners and chemicals that might be accessible to your dog, children’s toys that could be swallowed and toxic plants that might be munched on. Make sure your own food is kept out of reach (few human foods can be toxic to dogs).
Give your dog some time to adjust
Try to keep in mind that most dogs will need an adjustment or decompression period as they settle into their new home. In those first days, be as calm and relaxed as possible. Limit visitors—your friends and family are going to be anxious to play with a new family pet, but now is not the time to host meet-and-greets with the neighbourhood because this may only heighten the anxiety for your pooch. It typically takes about a month for a dog to fully relax and start to adapt to new routines.
Invest in training
Our dogs bring us joy, companionship, and a sense of pride. But when a dog continually disobeys or exhibits behavioral issues, dealing with them can be a constant source of stress for both us and for them. Consider consulting a certified dog trainer–they can help your dog not only learn basics like sit and stay, potty training and crate training, they can help you establish the fundamentals of a healthy, respectful relationship.
Remember, a dog’s life is much, much shorter than the average human’s life. It goes by quickly, so be your pup’s BFF and show your love every single day!
