Deciding to become the proud owner of a dog is a long-term decision, and it’s one that should not be made in haste.
A dog needs lots of love, care and affection, and if you are unable to give them the attention they need and deserve, then becoming a dog owner may not be the right thing for you at this current time.
However, if you have the time, energy, and love for a dog, then this is an exciting time in your life. A dog is a welcome addition to any household. They are lively, fun and affectionate animals who can change your outlook on life and provide you with the companionship many people long to achieve. To ensure that your dog (and you) make the most of one another, however, you need to prepare yourself, your home, and your family for the introduction of a loveable pooch.
How can you do this? Well, you do not simply become a dog owner overnight. Typically, you will want to research the breed of dog that best suits your lifestyle as well as make arrangements with work if needed (you may have to book a few weeks off while your dog is settling in). You will also want to prepare your home, find a trustworthy vet, and book your dog in for training classes.
For those of you wondering whether a dog is right or you or hoping to get your very first dog soon, the following guide is here to help you prepare and become the best dog owner ever.
Know What to Expect
Many of us think of puppies as cute and loveable animals who make great companions. And while this is true, there is a lot more to being a dog owner than puppy cuddles. Firstly, you need to truly understand what it is like to own a dog and the responsibilities associated with having a dog. Dogs need plenty of love, affection and exercise. It may be that having a dog doesn’t suit your lifestyle or living arrangements, and it is your duty to decide this before you adopt a pooch and bring it into your life. Remember, dogs are for life, not for a short period of time because you simply “wanted one.”
How your dog acts will depend on its age but also the environment it has come from. For instance, a rescue puppy or dog may be more timid, and you may have to slowly introduce the dog into the home and to the family. Usually, a rescue centre will provide you with tips on how to bring a rescued dog home. If you are unsure, speak to a vet or the employees of the rescue centre for help.
Get Your Home Ready
Your home may need adapting for when the new puppy or dog arrives. You will want to remove anything valuable and put them away so that there is less risk of it being broken if your dog gets excited and bumps into furniture. You will also want to ensure that your puppy or dog has a place to relax and sleep, as well as have a place for it to eat and drink. To start with, close all doors to rooms and slowly introduce your dog to each area of your home. Also, decide whether there will be rules in place such as no sleeping on the sofa or entering one room. If this is the case, then you may want to keep the door closed and train your dog later on.
Decide on the Right Dog Breed for You
There are many different breeds to choose from, all of which will have their own quirks and personalities as well as needs. You need to research each breed and decide whether it is right for you and matches your lifestyle. Remember, there is much more to a dog’s breed than the way it looks!
If you are unsure on which dog breed is best for you, there are many lists online detailing the popular dog breeds along with reasons why they are popular and what you can expect. Popular dog breeds are usually:
- Labradors
- French bulldogs (AKA Frenchies)
- The Akita
- Shiba Inus
Once you have decided on your breed, research their temperament, height and their usual life expectancy. For instance, a Shiba Inu is known for being active, attentive and alert. What’s more, because of their small size, they make for good family dogs and are good with children.
Learn About Typical Dog Behaviours
As we briefly touched upon, each dog will have their own behaviours. These behaviours may have developed because of their breed but also because of their upbringing. It is always best to research the breed beforehand and learn how to act around your future dog. However, you may also want to speak to the owners or rescue centre you are planning on getting your dog from. Not only will they know your new dog personally and can offer you advice on how to care for them, but they will also know the general best practices for caring for your type of dog.
For instance, a Belgian Malinois is known for being hardworking and smart. Therefore, it may be suggested that you find toys that can occupy them and allow them to use their brains as they solve puzzles for a reward.
Remember that dogs can act unusual at times. This may take you by surprise. However, there will usually always been a reason behind the way your dog is acting. For example, your dog will most likely get the ‘zoomies.’ The zoomies is a common behaviour of dogs but can seem unusual for new dog owners. What’s more, if your dog experiences the zoomies a lot, this can lead to stiff joints (especially for older dogs). You can protect your dog’s joints and help alleviate or prevent stiff joints by investing in joint supplements. By doing so, you are protecting your dog’s wellbeing. If you want to know more about what the zoomies are, why they occur and whether they can lead to stiff joints, you can read this article at YuMOVE for more information.
Understand Your Dog’s Basic Needs
Your dog will have basic needs that are a necessity when it comes to ensuring they are happy and healthy. This will be providing them with food, water, and the care and attention that they need, such as cuddles and long walks. However, your dog may also require other basic needs such as specific food and supplements. If so, you will need to ensure this is covered for as soon as you get your new dog. What’s more, if your dog is timid and requires a quiet space, this is also a basic need you need to cater for.
Find a Good Vet
The health and wellbeing of your dog should be your number one priority. Therefore, you need to find a good vet that is nearby and who will be able to care for your dog. When finding a vet, be sure to ask for recommendations from friends and family members who also have pets. They will be able to recommend one who is trustworthy. You should also head online and be sure to read testimonials and reviews.
Introduce Your New Dog to the Family Slowly
You dog will need to be introduced to your family slowly. Meeting new people and being introduced into a new environment can be overwhelming. You can reduce the likelihood of this causing your dog anxiety by making the transition as slowly and seamless as possible. There are many guides on how you can do this online.
Buying a dog is a commitment. You should only consider becoming a pet owner if you are one hundred percent able to care for them and yourself, ensuring they get the right love and affection that is needed. Remember, though, that dogs are loveable animals and are sure to make your life a lot more enjoyable and happier.
