Man’s best friend? That’s only the beginning.
Believe it or not, there are many science-backed benefits of getting a new dog. Doing so can give you and your family members extra companionship, but beyond that, it can also give you a sense of purpose and can improve your mental and physical wellbeing.
If you want to get a new dog, however, you need to be prepared. Here are the main things that you should keep in mind when adding a new dog to your home.
1. Understand The Time Commitment
When getting a new dog, you should remember to keep your expectations in check. Make sure that you have the time to take care of it properly and that your family is going to be dedicated to the task.
Taking your dog on regular walks, training it, and playing with it will take time and effort. Dogs can get lonely quickly if they aren’t shown the proper care and attention.
Be sure that you and your kids all understand what having a dog requires and ensure that everyone is prepared to give them the time and attention that they need.
Additionally, remember that dogs tend to live for 10-15 years or more. When you get a dog, you’ll be making a long-term commitment.
2. Be Prepared For The Costs
In addition to being time-consuming, remember that owning a dog also costs money as well. You should make sure that you’ve considered the costs that will be involved before bringing a new dog into your home.
Adopting or purchasing the dog will cost a good bit initially, but there’s much more to think about as well. You’ll also need to worry about feeding the dog and paying for worming and vaccinations. You may also need to take the dog to the vet in the future if there are any accidents or if your dog gets sick.
3. Prepare Your Dog’s Living Space
Before bringing a new dog home, you should make sure that you’ve prepared your home for his or her arrival.
You’ll want to decide where you’ll serve your dog’s food and water and may also want to create a sleeping area for the dog as well. Preparing a dog bed somewhere in your home and making it your dog’s own personal area can be comforting for your pet and can give them a great place to relax.
You’ll also want to think about anything else you’ll need to do to prepare your home for a pet as well. Make sure that you’ve thought about all areas where the dog will be spending time before you bring them inside your home.
4. Get Equipment And Supplies
You should also make sure that you have all of the necessary supplies for taking care of your dog.
Before your dog arrives, you should get a collar, an identification tag, a harness and leash, a crate, and a playpen. You’ll also need toys for your new arrival as well. However, be sure to pick safe toys and don’t get any that your dog may end up swallowing.
You’ll want to have food and water bowls and a bed for your new dog. Remember to consider your dog food choices carefully and be sure to get food that will contribute to a healthy diet.
5. Plan For The Introduction
You’ll also want to think about the arrival process when bringing the dog into your home.
It’s a good idea to bring the dog to your house when you’ll have plenty of time available such as on the weekend. During this time, you should work to establish a routine and to build comfort with your new pet. Try to keep things calm, quiet, and relaxed for the first week or so and try to avoid overwhelming them.
By introducing your new dog to your home in a slow way and setting a routine early on, you’ll ensure that your pet feels comfortable in your home.
6. Pay Attention To Pet Health
It’s also essential that you pay attention to your new dog’s health.
You should schedule a vet appointment within the first week of arrival at your home to check their general health. You may also need to set vaccination, spaying, neutering or microchip appointments as well.
If you have any current pets, you’ll want to make sure that they’re healthy as well. It can be stressful to add new pets to the home, so make sure that your current ones are mentally and physically in great shape beforehand.
7. Anticipate House Training Needs
You should also be prepared for house training your dog. Remember that your new dog will have accidents and eliminate in your home if they’re not comfortable in their new environment yet.
You’ll want to be sure to take your dog outside every few hours, especially when they first arrive. It may take some time to get them used to your home and to a routine, so be patient. Be prepared for the house training process before you bring your dog home.
8. Have A Plan For Being Away
If you work outside the home, then you’ll need to have a plan for your dog while you’re away. You’ll want to be sure that your dog can get out for a bathroom break while you’re away at most every 6 hours.
Using a crate or leaving them in a specific room of the house are some of the options you have for your dog while you’re away. However, another great option is to find a daycare for your dog.
Leaving your dog at a doggie daycare can allow your pet to have a lot of fun and socialize with other dogs while you’re at work during the day.
Using These Tips When Adding A New Dog To Your Home
If you’re thinking about getting a new dog, make sure that you’re fully prepared. Be sure that you and your family know what to expect and make that you introduce your dog to your home in a slow and calming way.
In search of more helpful tips for pet owners? Start reading through our blog now to find more useful guides.
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