Getting The Basics Right: What You Need To Consider When You Get A Puppy

There is so much you need to think about when you decide and make the commitment to get a pet dog. In theory, this is an additional member of your family unit. Whether you have children or not, they are part of your family, and so you do need to ensure that they are treated this way. It is a big commitment to make. One that requires your love, devotion and attention. 

A puppy especially can be quite demanding, as everything is going to fall on your shoulders in terms of what they learn and their level of care. There are many things you need to be considering now that you are a puppy owner, here are some of the things to think about to help you get started on this new journey.

 

Image source

Think about the level of activity they are going to get

When you first bring your puppy home, the last thing you are probably thinking about is the level of activity they are going to get when it comes to dog walks and such. However, it is only a matter of weeks before your puppy will be allowed out of your home, so it is definitely worth thinking about.

You may want to think about booking puppy training to help you with the basics and start off on the right foot. In terms of walking, they may likely won’t be up to long walks in the fields or hills, so working out a route close to home to build up the stamina will be a good place to start. 

Are they left alone for too long?

The next thing to think about would be how often and for how long they are or are going to be left alone for. Puppy's need love and attention, and will not thrive being left alone for too long. Before you make the commitment you may have already given some thought to this. It could be that you change your routines with working, or call on friends and family to help you by visiting your puppy often. It might be worth taking the time to consider this carefully before making the commitment. It isn’t fair on you or the puppy if it is something that you can’t commit to.

Do they have everything they need?

The next thing you will want to think about is whether or not they have everything they need. A puppy won’t be toilet trained at first, this is something that you are going to need to do yourself. So it may be time to start thinking about toilet pads that can be laid on the floor. You might also want to think about a bed, a designated area for your puppy if you don’t want them sleeping on your bed or with you. It is also going to be a good idea to think about other things such as vet appointments for vaccinations, grooming products, blankets and dog leads.

Are you sure this is right for you?

Finally, the last big question to ask yourself is whether or not this lifestyle change and commitment is right for you and your life right now. It a big decision to make, and one that shouldn't be taken lightly.

Let’s hope reminding you of the basics and what is needed when taking care of a puppy helps you make the right decision for you.

How to Welcome a Rescue Dog to Your Home

Image Credit: Unsplash

Rescuing a dog is incredibly fulfilling. Just knowing that you are giving this pooch a second chance to be loved is a wonderful feeling. However, taking care of a pet who has a dark past can be quite challenging so before you bring your pup home, think carefully about how you are going to approach this transition.

When dogs are loved, they bring love to your household. Your kids will benefit from having a new furry friend and you can all benefit from a healthy lifestyle walking together. Here’s what you need to do to make sure that they settle in. Just remember, time and patience are key.

Take a Tour of Your Home

The first day is vital for laying down some ground rules but also for familiarizing your dog with your home. Keeping your pup on the leash for the time being, let them have a good sniff around the outside of your house first. Give them plenty of time to look around and don’t pull them around. 

Taking a tour of the house is a good way to establish their territory but also to create some rules. If they start chewing or scratching, be firm but fair. Say no clearly and then supply an appropriate toy instead. Praise all good behaviour with a treat.

Make Them Feel Safe

Dogs who have been abused in the past can be quite aggressive when they feel threatened so avoiding this is absolutely vital. The last thing you want is an animal attack so keep in mind your dog’s history and be patient with your homemaking. If you are really worried about this, you can view more here.

Making a dog feel safe is actually quite easy from your perspective - you just need to create a space they can call their own. It might be a crate or a pillow, or even a full room. When your dog is here, you won’t disturb or try to pet them - this is their personal space.

Lots of pets will want to hide from you when they first get home. They might run behind a sofa or dive under a blanket but the most important thing is that you let them hide. Your pet will come out when they are ready and then you can shower them with praise.

Establish a Routine

Dogs are big fans of routine; it keeps them grounded and makes them feel more secure. Think about it this way, we humans like to know that we are going to have dinner at a certain time and dogs are very similar. Putting down food at the same time each day, going for regular walks and spending playtime together are all ways of establishing a good routine.

Training is also very important as this teaches your dog which behaviours are okay and what they should stop doing. Following instructions is also a vital part of training as this will ensure that everyone knows you are in charge.

Just take your time and you will all be getting along perfectly in no time at all.