One of my dearest friends has decided to embark on the adventure of adopting a puppy for her children for Christmas. This family currently does not own any pets and didn’t own pets growing up. My family is currently pet owners of cats. We don’t have dog(s), and I have heard that bringing in a new puppy can be as hard as bringing in a new baby.
I wanted to write about it and go over the info to taking care of a new dog. I wanted to write it for her and also for us, in case we decide to go down that road too. If the table is turned and you have a dog and bringing in a new baby, here are some tips to help that transition.
When it comes to having a dog in your family, it’s important to be a responsible owner. Not only is it important to your family, their health and safety but the dog’s too. Having a dog in your family is a beautiful and rewarding relationship. However, it’s important to remember that a dog is also hard work and its care should not be taken lightly.
Here are 5 tips for being a responsible dog owner so that you, your family and the dog have the best life together possible.
1. Make Them Part of the Family
Dogs, just like humans need love and companionship. They are pack creatures and from the moment you introduce them to your home, in their eyes, they have joined your pack. To make your dog feel part of the family it’s important to regularly take them for walks, play with them, feed them well, clean them, pet them and even share your bed with them (if you want). Dogs love to feel part of a family and that means sharing your life with them.
2. Pet Proof the House
The last thing you want is your dog eating something dangerous in the house and getting sick. Pet proofing your house is important so that you can avoid any accidents. Dogs are curious animals and they love to sniff, bite, chew and eat anything they can. It’s also worth considering any parts of the house that are unsafe for your dog where they may get trapped or stuck.
3. Care for Your Dog
You should ensure that your dog has all its injections and regular visits to the vet as required. It’s also worth considering getting pet insurance so that no matter what happens you can get the treatment required for your dog and avoid the worst-case scenario.
Consider what you are feeding your dog too, try to buy the best quality food possible that is designed to keep them big and strong. Buy your dog treats that keep them entertained and healthy such as chew bones from healthy-chews.com.
4. Spay and Neuter
Having your dog sprayed and neutered is the responsible thing to do as an owner. Many studies have shown that dogs who are spayed and neutered go on to live much longer and healthier lives than those that are not. Studies have also shown that they are less likely to develop behavioral issues too.
5. Train Your Dog
This one is a biggy. It’s essential that you give your dog at least some basic training to help them with their behavior. It’s important to get them accustomed around other dogs so that walkies can be stress-free and fun. Basic directions like ‘sit’ and ‘stay’ will save you years and years of hard work.
Basic directions are also useful when it comes to dangerous moments you may encounter, teaching your dog to ‘stay’ could save its life one day. Teaching obedience to your dog is an integral part of being a dog owner. Failure to do so can cause all manner of behavioral issues that may make you and your family’s life extremely difficult.
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