Are you thinking about getting a new puppy? If so, you may be delighted at the idea of bringing home a new member of the family. While your new four-legged friend will add plenty of joy to your home, it’s also important to bear in mind that having a dog is a huge commitment that could last up to 15 years or more, so you’ll need to take the time to think about if it is a responsibility you can fulfill.
If you have never owned a dog before and require some advice on what to expect, this guide will provide some useful tips to refer to:
1. Before Bringing Your Dog Home
It’s important to research as much as you can about your preferred breed, since each unique dog has their own needs. The breed you choose should adhere to your lifestyle and living environment. Alongside this, you should also bear in mind that owning a dog comes with repetitive costs, such as vet bills, medications and food, so you may wish to work out your finances to ensure you can afford these often costly expenses.
2. Lay Down Ground Rules
As soon as you bring your new puppy home, you must lay down some ground rules for your new pooch to learn the difference between right and wrong. Although they’re charming, it doesn’t mean they should get away with misbehaving, as this can lead to larger problems later down the line. If you are set on making your puppy obedient, you’ll need to start training early to show them who’s boss. When they respond to a command, reward them for good behavior.
3. Be Wary of Dangerous Foods
You may not even be aware that some foods can be extremely dangerous for dogs. It’s important to keep these foods out of reach of inquisitive pups who are always on the lookout for a delicious snack. Here is a list of toxic foods to make a note of:
- Raisins
- Chocolate
- Garlic
- Onions
- Grapes
- Leeks
- Citrus
- Caffeine
4. Develop Their Independence
It can be tough to leave your puppy alone in the first few weeks, but the sooner you start, the better. This will allow their independence to grow gradually. Stepping out of the room for several minutes and ignoring their whines will get them used to the idea that you won’t always be around. During training, some dogs will be more anxious than others, but this doesn’t have to become a major issue if you try natural calming remedies such as hemp calming treats for dogs.
5. Choose the Right Dog Food
The food your dog eats has a dramatic impact on their overall health and wellbeing. With so many dog foods on the market, it can be difficult to know what is best for your little pooch. Weeks before your new puppy arrives, it would be ideal to learn the fundamental basics of the canine diet and which food best suits your dog’s requirements.