Before Getting a Dog
Hi all!
As the holiday season rolls around, many people flock to breeders, pet stores, and shelters to get the perfect gift of a dog. But it is important to remember that dogs aren’t just a gift, they are a gift for life. We’re here to give you some tips before getting a dog! We’ll write another post of tips for life with your pup!
As many of you already know, owning a dog takes a lot of commitment, responsibility, and education about dogs. For those first time owners, or anyone who is looking to freshen up their knowledge as an owner, we have some tips for you!
It is very important for the health, happiness, and safety of your furry friend to take responsible care of them.
Before taking on the responsibility of getting a dog, one must consider the time commitment. Owning a dog means being home enough to let the dog out, feed it, play, and walk him or her. There are other aspects of time to consider, like vet appointments and grooming needs.
It is important to also research breeds and their needs. For example, a shih tzu or shih tzu mix will need grooming every 4-6, which can be costly. On top of that, they need regular brushing to keep matting away. A pit bull or jack russell terrier, for instance, requires less maintenance, but still requires baths and a quick brushing to reduce shedding, nail clipping or grinding, and teeth brushing. Breed awareness is also important for their needs. For example, a newfoundland does not need much more exercise than a moderate walk, but a border collie needs vigorous exercise and a job to keep them busy. Research is also important to find out what is best for your pet. Many dogs have allergies, so researching a specific food that is best for them is crucial. Researching a vet that you can trust is essential, ask other dog owners for their opinions.
Training is also an important aspect of owning a dog. It is crucial to socialize a new puppy with other pets and people to help build their confidence. A dog should also be trained and praised to know commands and to listen. Though, adopting an older dog is a great alternative! Many shelters train dogs to heighten their ability to get adopted.
Dog-proofing your home is also crucial. It is important that things that can be harmful if eaten are out of the way, like electrical cords. A fence, secure area, or area to walk on leash is important for keeping your dog safe, with you, and away from cars.
We hope this gives you some insight on how to prepare for the commitment of a dog!
