Dog ownership is one of the biggest joys in life. However, the idea can be just as intimidating as it is exciting, especially if you have never had one before. Don’t fear. This article features essential information every new dog owner needs to make your experience easier.
Whether you are bringing home a new puppy or adopting an older dog, here are a few tips for first time dog owners on how to be a better dog parent.
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Breed Research
While pups may be cute, they aren’t as simple as most imagine. There is house training, obedience training, puppy mishaps, etc. Adult dogs may be a better fit if you are seeking a more mature companion.
You must do some research to ensure your new canine companion is the right fit for your family and your lifestyle. Get past their cuteness and look at the big picture. Where do you live? What are your family’s needs? Do you have kids?
The first step is to research different breeds. Talking to the shelter staff about your lifestyle may help you make the best choice. Since they interact with different dog breeds, they understand their needs and how they would fit in different homes.
Consider how you like to spend your free time. Do you like hiking on your days off? If so, you would be wise to avoid a pug, French bulldog, and other flat-nose breeds. Avoid sport or working breeds like German and Australian shepherds if your lifestyle is generally sedentary. These dog breeds require A LOT of activity.
Consider the size of your dog as well. If you have small children, stick to small dogs. Larger ones can accidentally knock the kids over and cause serious injury. If you live in a small house, then avoid getting large breeds that need to be active.
How to Help Your Dog Have a Healthy Immune System
Once you’ve chosen the right breed for your lifestyle, make sure to feed your dog high-quality dog food. This will help their immune system stay strong and healthy. The best options include whole food ingredients like carrots, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and apples. Just like humans, dogs need a well-balanced diet.
Regular exercise in fresh air is essential as well. It stimulates the lymphatic system, helping your dog’s body relieve stress and filter toxins.
CBD oil is good for your dog’s immunity as well and can be found at a local pet store or online. Consider Honest Paws’ CBD Oil products, as they have many positive reviews. They are safe for pets and very effective. Your vet may help you decide on the appropriate dosage.
Plan Your Time and Prepare to be Responsible
Dogs may be irresistible, but they require a lot of your time. Consider what life would look like with a puppy in your home. Assessing your time before committing can save you a lot of frustration.
Although your puppy shapes their personality over time, you also play a critical role in nurturing it. You must set aside time to play with your dog, train it, and get it accustomed to its new home. Before getting a dog, plan your time to ensure you stay calm in the long run.
Did you know that some dog breeds can live up to 15 years? When getting your pup, prepare to be responsible for a long time. Note that this is a long-term commitment to provide your dog with enough exercise, proper nutrition, healthcare, and opportunities to socialize.
It is also a responsibility to your community. You must be willing to clean up after your dog and take responsibility for their actions. You may be liable for treatment costs if they bite or injure someone.
Research dog-related laws and regulations in your area. Pay attention to mandatory vaccinations and licensing.
Related – Read more about Tips and Essential Gear for Trail Running with Dog
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Budget
Your dog requires a financial commitment. You need to create a budget before bringing it to your home. The first year of having a purebred puppy can cost an average of $4,800. This covers items like food, supplies, chew toys, and veterinary fees.
Adopting a rescue dog can also incur costs. You need to worry about the costs of grooming, vet appointments, dog food, and treats for as long as you have your dog. Many dog owners are shocked at how expensive their furry friends can be.
Related – Read more on the Essential Gifts for New Puppy Owners That Any Dog Would LOVE
Find a Good Vet
Get a good vet before bringing your vet home. Research the vets in your area and consider getting recommendations from family and friends. Settle for a vet that you and your dog can trust, and create a good relationship with them.
Once you get your dog, you’ll need to see a vet soon. They will guide you through your vaccination schedule and offer preventative care.
Many new dog owners forget or skip annual checkups. This can be detrimental to your dog’s health. The vet checks their vitals, heart, weight, lungs, and teeth during routine appointments. This way, they can treat issues before they get out of hand. They conduct tests if necessary and answer your concerns.
Beware of Overfeeding
Most dog owners understand the benefits of providing their dogs with proper nutrition. However, it is easy to get overwhelmed and offer too many treats. If you haven’t been a dog parent for a long time, it is easy to assume that a few extra treats won’t do much harm. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Before you know it, your dog will be struggling with obesity and other health problems. About 56% of dogs in the United States are obese or overweight.
Extra weight, no matter how little, can trigger various health issues. It can significantly lower your dog’s life expectancy. Extra weight increases the risk of arthritis, kidney disease, joint pain, high blood pressure, diabetes, and general injuries. It can also make your dog more susceptible to some types of cancer.
One of the most important things to do for your dog’s wellness is to feed them a balanced diet. Limit table scraps and treats, and stick to high-quality ingredients. If your dog is already overweight, your vet can offer advice to lose weight safely and effectively.
Obedience Training
The first few days with your pup are all fun and games. You probably can’t get over their cuteness and will likely ignore behavioral issues. However, you shouldn’t forget to set the rules.
Although some dogs don’t need much training, obedience training is always necessary. Work through the basics right from the beginning. Start with leash training and socialization exercises. Help it establish a routine and give positive reinforcement for good behavior.
Basic commands like ‘come’ and ‘sit’ help your dog fit better into their new environment. They promote good behavior and improve confidence. Consider getting lessons from a reputable dog trainer or taking dog training classes.
Don’t Overlook Behavioural Issues
When you are a new pup parent, especially during that first week, your little one can do no wrong in your eyes. Although love can blind you, take note of behavioral issues if any. Every behavioral issue stems from somewhere. For example, the excessive barking may indicate that your dog is upset or suffer separation anxiety. They could be trying to send you a message.
Common behavior problems include chewing on items they shouldn’t, growling, and aggressive behavior. Sometimes, behavior issues are a sign of underlying health concerns. You may need to see a vet. If you are unsure of why your dog is acting out, consult a professional.
Prepare for Emergencies
No dog owner wants to imagine anything bad happening to their dog. However, you must always prepare for the worst. Being unprepared is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
Getting a microchip is one of the best ways to prepare for an emergency. A microchip is a little device that can be placed under folds of loose skin or between your dog’s shoulder blades. The microchip carries a unique ID number and is usually scanned by a shelter or vet. It is a fantastic way to ensure you can find your dog if they get lost. If you adopt from a shelter, your dog will likely be chipped there.
Losing your precious dog takes just a moment. However, finding it can be very difficult. You can never be too safe even if you keep your dog in a fenced yard and always have a leash when going out. Always ensure your dog is wearing its collar and an ID tag with your phone number when outside.
Another tip is preparing an emergency kit. It should include everything you would need to leave your home immediately. The basics include a dog bed, food, an extra leash, water bowls, medications, and bags. Always have information regarding your local emergency response centers.
Pet insurance is a worthwhile investment as well. It helps you cover vet care if your dog gets sick or injured. This way, you don’t need to worry about money in an emergency.
Relax and Prepare for Setbacks
No matter how much you prepare, life happens. Your dog will likely get sick, chew on your favorite shoes, or have an accident in your living room. These don’t make you a bad dog owner. One of the most important tips for new dog owners is to consider it a learning curve for you as a new dog parent.
The internet is filled with pictures of seemingly perfect pet owners and endless checklists. If you try to keep up with all of them, you may put too much pressure on yourself. If you are stressed, you will likely transfer it to your dog. Take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy time with your dog (your newest family member).
If you plan on getting a dog for the first time, it may be one of your most exciting times. Proper preparation will make your experience even more rewarding and ensure a happy life together. With the above tips, the ownership process can be easier than it seems.
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