As the saying goes, a dog is a man’s best friend. A furry friend could help curb loneliness and make your days more enjoyable. However, dog ownership can be pretty intimidating and scary, especially if it is your first time getting a pet. We are here to help you get started! Well, this article will discuss essential tips you should know before getting a dog.
Understand you are making a life-long commitment
Some dog breeds can live for as long as 15 years. Therefore, if you decide to bring a pup to your home, you will live with him for a very long time. Since your dog has no one apart from you, it is your responsibility to provide adequate care, exercise, nutrition and dog training. You will also be responsible for your dog’s actions, such as cleaning up after him during walks and getting rid of dog diarrhea from your carpet.
Do ample research on various dog breeds
It would be wise to get a pet that would be an excellent fit for your lifestyle and schedule. For instance, a dog with a flat nose would not be ideal if you enjoy hiking or live in a warm climate. If you lead a more sedentary lifestyle and have small children, we wouldn’t recommend getting large, excitable dogs, but if you love the outdoors and you don’t mind a more active dog, sports breeds like German shepherds and German Shorthaired Pointers may be perfect for you.
Be financially prepared
In addition to the time you will set aside for play, exercise and training, it would be wise to consider the financial implications of dog ownership. Costs associated with owning a dog include grooming, preventive care, checkups, vaccinations and nutritious foods. You also need to factor in the prices of dog-proofing your home.
It is important to consider obtaining pet insurance or setting aside funds for emergency veterinary care. If you choose to get your pet insured, you want to find a provider that offers coverage that is both good value for money and the best fit for your pet. For example, maybe Fetch would be a good insurer for you. Fetch offers unique features like coverage for virtual vet appointments and coverage for several conditions other insurers tend to exclude. Similarly, if your dog has a pre-existing condition that requires specialised treatment, another insurance provider may be a better fit for your pet. It is worth doing your research before settling on pet insurance. The cost of veterinary care can also add up quickly, especially if your dog requires surgery, hospitalization, or ongoing treatment. You may also want to plan for end-of-life pet care, including at-home euthanasia. Saving up for these expenses in advance can help alleviate the stress and financial burden during difficult times.
Invest in high-quality food and treats
Healthy food will give your dog all the nutrients he needs to play and grow. Invest in top-quality food for nutrition and dietary support. Look into food labels to check ingredients plus factors in your dog’s age and aspects like medical state or conditions. Apart from food, you provide tasty snacks such as bully sticks. You can learn what is a bully stick and how the chews can benefit your pet. Take your time to learn about the best chews and treats in the market.
Dog-proof your home
A day or two before you bring your dog home, you must take the necessary steps to dog-proof your home and outdoor space. Ensure you eliminate anything that could pose a safety hazard to the new furry friend, cover all electrical outlets and hide any electrical cords that the pup could chew. We suggest you invest in essential items such as dog toys, leashes, a potty training crate and a collar.
Locate a reputable vet
We cannot stress how important it is to find a vet you trust. We recommend you visit the vet soon after you bring your pup home. The vet will then guide you on the best preventive measures and formulate a vaccination schedule depending on your dog’s age.
Wrapping up
During the first few months in your home, your pup will feel anxious, uneasy or even scared. We suggest you be patient and exercise positive reinforcement until your new pet acclimatizes to its new surroundings. We hope this article has been helpful and you will enjoy every moment spent with your little furry creature.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.