Best Advice for New Dog Owners

It feels thrilling to think of adding a furry friend to the family! If you are about to become a dog owner, here are a few things to consider before you start your journey together.

Research Thoroughly - Learn All About Dogs!

You have to do a lot of research before bringing a four-legged family member into your house. To avoid running into problems, you should know a couple of things about dog behavior, diets and attitudes. Understanding what a dog demands physically and mentally can help ensure a smooth transition towards pet parenthood. Your new puppy is entirely dependent on you. You could have a life, a job, and friends, but your dog only has you, so it’s important that you know how to meet his needs

Take Advice from Shelter Workers

To ensure that the dog you adopt is a good fit for your lifestyle, consider the bigger picture of a dog being a part of your family. Can he easily adapt to your neighborhood? Researching breeds is a wonderful start, but talking to shelter workers and telling them what kind of lifestyle you desire for the pet is a better option. They have a thorough knowledge of the dogs with them.

Prepare Your House for the Dog

Preparing your home for a dog isn't quite as time-consuming as preparing for a newborn, but they need just as much attention. If you're adopting a puppy, you'll need some basic items like bowls, a collar, a leash, toys, and a crate for toilet training. Although an older dog will still require the same amount of equipment, he will not outgrow it or rip it apart when teething.

Be Ready to Train Your Dog

Your new pet will take time to adjust to your house in the first few days, even months. One of the most stressful environments for a dog is a shelter. It takes some time for your new pet to adjust to his new surroundings and trusts you as his caregiver.

Be Patient and Use Positive Reinforcement

Use positive reinforcement to educate your dog on the home rules and how you expect him to behave. Create a routine to help your dog feel more at ease while adjusting to his new surroundings. Keeping anxiety to a minimum during the early days requires consistency, stability, and predictability. Above all, be patient.

Find a Veterinarian and Develop the Bond

You have to make sure that you find a veterinarian that you and your dog trust and respect. When you have a new dog, make an appointment with the veterinarian right away. The veterinarian can go over the dog's vaccine regimen and the best flea/tick and heartworm preventatives.

Know the Physical and Mental Needs of Your Dog

Dogs require regular activities such as walks, jogs, play, and social connection with humans and other animals to stay healthy. Buy puzzle toys and kongs to help your dog avoid boredom and keep his mind sharp.

Don’t Forget to Stay Relaxed

Do your best and stay relaxed. Dogs are intelligent creatures and can tell the moment you stress out. To keep them from getting anxious, you should practice some calming techniques.