One of the biggest pleasures in life is undoubtedly owning a dog. But it can be intimidating if you’ve never owned a dog before. Don’t worry, though; we have a comprehensive list of tips for first-time dog owners that will provide you with the information you need to get along with your new pet.
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Suggestions for New Dog Owners
You should consider a number of factors before bringing a family member with four legs home. Being prepared includes knowing your dog’s physical and mental demands and assessing your ability to devote the time and energy necessary to maintain your dog’s health and happiness. It is best to think about other choices, such as fostering, first if you are not sure if you will be able to commit to a pet for life.
- Conduct some research.
First, think about the wider picture. Will owning a dog fit into your family’s routine? Certain dog breeds are subject to laws and ordinances in some cities or localities. While researching various breeds is a fantastic place to start, it’s advisable to talk to rescuers and staff at animal shelters and explain the type of pet you’re looking for. Because they are familiar with the personalities and temperaments of the dogs they foster, rescuers can help you find a compatible companion. This is particularly crucial for new dog owners. It’s usually preferable to adopt a dog you know rather than bringing home a surprise.
The appropriate dog size for your home should also be considered. For example, larger breeds are more prone to inadvertently knock over objects, especially tiny infants.
2. Make a spending plan.
One essential consideration is the cost of owning a dog. The average cost of a puppy throughout its first year of life depends on your budget. In addition to monthly, annual, and less frequent expenses, you’ll need to budget for routine costs like food and treats, grooming, checkups, vaccinations, and preventative pet care. Before taking your new puppy home, you should also think about what you’ll need to buy, including the dog’s bed, food and water bowls, blanket, toys, collar, and leash, as well as some basic grooming supplies and pet-safe cleaning supplies.
3. Be responsible.
You can be best friends with some of the longest-living dog breeds for up to fifteen years. Therefore, in addition to pet care and training, if you are committed to caring for your dog for the rest of his life, you must provide him with the right food, exercise, mental stimulation, and company.
Examine the rules and legislation pertaining to dog ownership in your area and follow them. Make sure your dog has had all necessary vaccines and register or license them. In order to avoid undesired breeding, you will also need to spay or neuter your dog once they reach adulthood.
Get your house ready. To protect your dog, you must first dog-proof your home and yard. A no-pull leash, chew toys for teething, a kennel and training pads for potty training, bowls, puppy training treats, a collar and tag with your information, and other necessities should be stocked if you’re adopting a puppy.
4. Evaluate your time.
Although it’s hard to resist getting a puppy, think about what living in your home would be like with one before committing.
Because a dog’s adult personality is a combination of nature and nurture, you can mold a puppy’s behavioral qualities through appropriate training. But all that adorable puppy enthusiasm and vigor have a drawback. It’s important to consider if you have the time to train a puppy from scratch. Everything from basic commands to bathroom training, crate training, proper leash walking, and how to be kind to young children must be taught to puppies. This is a difficult task that takes a lot of patience and time. Only bring a puppy into your home if you are certain you can cater for all of its needs, as improper training might damage the dog’s mature personality.
5. Practice frequently.
The first few days (or even months) in your home will be difficult for your new pet. If you adopt a dog, it may take some time for them to become used to you and start to trust you because shelters are among the most stressful places for dogs. If your new family member tries to hide, refuses to eat, or isn’t particularly social after moving in, they may require time, space, and your understanding. The adjustment time might be at least two to four weeks, depending on the dog and their past situation.
To help your dog learn how to behave properly, be patient and employ positive reinforcement when teaching them acceptable conduct. As your dog settles in, establish a regular routine to make him or her feel more at home. Predictability, stability, and consistency are the best strategies to lower anxiety in the beginning.
6. Calm down!
Some extremely implausible checklists can be found online, such as “your dog needs to meet 25 new people every day.” Simply give it your all and have faith in your abilities. Your dog will sense when you are not confident around them. Dogs require a lot of love and care, but they also require guidance, and they won’t listen unless they feel confident in you. Your dog is able to sense how stressed you are. Breathe deeply and keep in mind that, even if you don’t believe you’re doing a perfect job at first, your dog will give you ten times as much love and care as you give him.