Dogs are awesome! Everyone should consider trying a life with dogs. They are lovable, loyal, and often very protective of their owners. There is nothing better than coming home to your four-legged friend after a long day at work or school. However, with so many things in life that can change, it may be beneficial to prepare for the possibility of having multiple dogs in the future. To help you get started, here are some helpful suggestions on preparing for a life with dogs.
Puppy Proofing
When embarking on a life with a dog, you should know that puppies are like babies; they get into everything (because they are curious). To make sure your new baby does not eat something poisonous, make sure you are puppy-proof around your home before bringing him home by taking some important precautions.
Some foods like grapes and raisins can even be poisonous to canines! Remove all small objects or dangerous chemicals that your dog might get into (e.g., kitchen cleansers, antifreeze, chocolate, etc.).
When preparing for a life with dogs, you should get rid of all breakable items in your house before getting any new dog. A household full of puppies is no place for fragile antiques or expensive collectibles. Dogs love to chew on everything they can sink their teeth into, which often includes furniture, shoes, and other household items. To help prevent pets from destroying everything you own, it is best to get rid of all breakable objects before introducing a new dog into your home.
Dog Breed Knowledge Is Power
It is often said that the first step to solving any problem is admitting that there is one. When it comes to deciding which dog breed will be right for you, it is best to do some research beforehand. Understanding what you are getting yourself into before starting a life with dogs in your home will make life easier in the long run. Practice responsible dog ownership by knowing which breed is compatible with your lifestyle and personality type. Remember: no two dogs are alike despite their similar appearances!
Do proper research and find out as much as possible about each breed to find the right fit for you. Research breeds that suit your lifestyle — if you are not exactly sure what type of dog you want, then research breeds that would suit your lifestyle better than others instead. You will learn a lot about their temperament and behavior as well as their strengths and weaknesses, so it will give you a much better idea of the type of dog to get when you choose to embark on a life with dogs.
Pick the Right Breed
If you want to have a life with dogs, your best option is to adopt one because there are so many dogs in animal shelters around the country waiting for good homes. But if you choose to buy your new canine family member from a breeder, try to avoid buying purebreds from pet stores. Pet stores sell puppies that come from commercial breeding facilities or puppy mills. These facilities keep their animals in severe confinement and do not always provide them with good care and pet grooming. The only way to end this practice is by refusing to buy any products or services from pet stores that sell dogs or cats.
If you want to adopt a dog, many purebreds are in animal shelters around the country. Do your homework before choosing a breed. Not all breeds are suitable for life in any home, and some dogs can be challenging to manage if not given proper training. Do your research on the different dog breeds available so that you can find one best suited for your household.
You will also want to make sure the breed is healthy by checking with a local rescue group or a veterinarian in a local veterinary clinic. since health problems are common with certain breeds of dogs (e.g., bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels). You should also consider buying from reputable breeders. You can adopt from shelters or rescue organizations depending on what you prefer. Still, not every organization is responsible for finding good homes for purebreds they take in. If you want a specific breed and are sure that you are up to the challenge, buy from a reputable breeder instead. You may have to pay more money upfront, but it is worth it in the end.
Leash and Crate Training
When you choose to focus on a life with dogs, start training early on. Training a dog can be difficult and sometimes frustrating. However, with the right approach, it is possible to teach even an older dog new tricks! Like humans, dogs too benefit from early education, so start teaching good manners before your pet comes home. Many shelters and rescues offer low-cost obedience classes that may be available for you and your new pup to join together! If you cannot train them yourself, ask around for recommendations on good training facilities in your area.
Leash training is an essential part of the preparation for keeping your pup safe on walks (and protecting others too). As soon as you make a plan to get a dog, it is time to get prepared. Start leash training early by taking your pup outside without a leash and allowing her to explore her environment. If you have introduced new commands before this practice, your pup will likely pick up on the cues more quickly when she is out of the house. After your pup understands what “sit,” “stay,” and “come” mean, then try attaching a leash during these exercises for some extra security while you’re both in the great outdoors.
Crate training is an effective way to house train your new puppy or older dog. A crate can be used as a place to sleep and where they go when no one is home (if they are potty trained). They are not punishment; they are a haven. It is also an excellent tool for potty training and to keep your new canine family member from chewing things in the house that they should not chew while you are out of home (which can include marking their space by peeing on furniture or carpets).
Using crates is one of the most effective ways to prepare yourself for your new dog because it teaches them where to do their business. You will be able to take your pup outside less often if she learns how to hold herself until you return home (if you are not there yet, crate-train overnight too). If she has an accident, make sure to clean up after her with an enzymatic cleaner to avoid returning to the same spot.
Practice Can Make Perfect
When you choose to have a life with dogs there are some important things you should know. Dogs require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. If your new pup is a particularly active breed, then it is best to begin practicing long walks before they come home. Not only will this help with housebreaking, but it will also give you an idea of what kind of energy level your dog may have when they arrive. Although dogs are often thought of as lazy creatures, many breeds are quite athletic! Find out which sport your dog was bred for by doing some research online; most likely, their ancestors excelled at something specific, whether hunting, sledding, agility competitions, etc.
Prepare for Veterinary Care
One crucial step in preparing for a life with dogs is to learn as much as possible about their health history. If you already have a dog at home, you should take them to the animal hospital at least once every six months for checkups and vaccinations. That way, you will spot any potential issues sooner than later and treat them accordingly before they become significant problems.
From getting shots to neutering, owning a dog brings about many medical expenses. Before getting a puppy, make sure you are prepared financially for these expenses by having money saved up. To avoid health problems down the road, research reputable breeders who screen their dogs for genetic diseases that may affect the health of your new pup. It is also essential to find a veterinarian early on and establish a good relationship with them for both you and your dog to get the medical care they need throughout their lifetime. An animal health expert may guide you on the ideal pet nutrition to give your dog.
Start Building a Personal Library
As with any pet they own, a life with dogs requires research and knowledge beyond knowing how to feed and walk them. It is vital to also know where to get an animal hotel. It is essential to educate yourself about what types of foods are best for different breeds and when they are likely to need veterinary attention. Fortunately, many resources are available through libraries, bookstores, and online from reputable sources such as universities. Make sure that whatever information you discover is backed by valid sources such as scientific research and reliable documents.
How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?
Dogs are not cheap, nor should they be! Do not get a dog just for the sake of having one. Make sure you are able to provide everything your new pup will need during their lifetime. If you cannot afford all of the expenses associated with owning a pet, think about adopting an older pup from a shelter so you do not have to worry about proper shots and vaccinations yet. Do some research online and ask how much it costs to properly care for a dog to avoid any potential financial problems down the road. Ensure you engage a home remodeling or general contractor to help you know the costs of changing your home into a dog-friendly area.
Keep an Open Mind
Dogs are not just tiny furry humans! Dogs may require you to modify your daily schedule to suit their needs, such as taking them out for walks and playing with them. Be prepared for significant changes and always keep your dog’s well-being and safety above your desires. If you cannot financially afford a pet or do not have the time required to take care of one, do not get a puppy under any circumstances. Always respect your canine friends by giving them lots of attention and love and teaching good manners, such as walking without pulling on the leash.
Prepare for Challenges
Just like raising children, dogs also require patience, hard work, and dedication. It is important to understand that your dog will not always obey you and may challenge you at every turn. Keep in mind that dogs are living creatures with emotions, feelings, and needs; they are not just pets to be cared for. The challenges of raising a puppy can make for many happy memories and teach children about responsibility. In addition, they provide a unique form of unconditional love and companionship throughout their lifetime if given proper care and training. Be prepared for surprises
When adopting an older dog from a shelter, there are no guarantees for their personality. Even young pups may not turn out to be what you expected! You can do your best with training, using fence builders to limit the dogs’ movement using a fence, but each pup is an individual with unique personality traits. When you choose a life with dogs, it is essential to remain positive and keep in mind what is best for your new dog when making any significant decisions that affect them. Do your best as a responsible owner and research the rescue or shelter you are adopting to make sure they have a good history of taking care of their animals. In addition, always remember that if things do not work out as planned, you are able to return your dog as long as it is not sick, dangerous, has basic obedience skills, and is agreed upon by both parties.
Introducing new dogs slowly is a fundamental rule for any dog owner to follow; do not just bring the new dog you have got it home into your life without giving them a few weeks or months to adjust first. The transition period can be difficult for both of them, so give them time and space after bringing the new dog home before expecting anything from either one of them.
Make sure you are ready for the commitment. You need to realize that dogs are not toys, and it takes a lot more than just money to take care of them properly. You may need home remodeling to incorporate a water filtration system when embarking on a life with dogs. They are living creatures with personalities, emotions, needs, and wants. If you do not want the responsibility of taking care of another being, then do not get a dog, no matter how cute or unique it may seem at first glance.
