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Getting your first dog is an incredibly exciting experience. We all know that dogs are man’s best friend, so getting your own dog means that you can have a new friend in your life. Although getting a dog is fun, they are a lot of work. You cannot just buy a dog an expect them to be trained, especially if you buy a puppy. A lot of people buy dogs with the expectation that it will be fun all of the time, but this is not the case. Having a new dog is like having a child, they require hours of your time in order for it to work.
So, it is important that you are prepared to put in the work when getting a dog. If you are thinking of getting a dog soon, then this article is for you. In this article we will go over 6 top tips that can help you when owning a dog for the first time. Keep on reading if you would like to find out more.
Research Breeds Beforehand
One of the first things you will need to do when you are considering buying a new dog is to research the breeds. Different breeds have different behaviours, so you will want to make sure that the breed you choose is suitable for your lifestyle. If you want a relaxed dog to cuddle with on the sofa, then perhaps opt for a French Bulldog or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. However, if you are a very active person, then you will want a breed that can keep up with your fast-paced lifestyle. In this scenario, you should consider getting a high-energy dog like a Border Collie or an Australian Shepherd. It is important that you take the time you research the breed thoroughly as it will ensure you find the best dog for your lifestyle.
Make Sure Your Home Is Ready
Before you buy your first dog, you must ensure that your home is ready. You have to remember that your home is about to become your dog’s home too, so you need to do what you can to make it a safe and comfortable environment. If you plan on buying a puppy, then you will need to puppy-proof the home and make sure they cannot find things to chew. This doesn’t mean you need to ger rid of all of your belongings, but instead just put stuff on a higher shelf where it is out of reach. Ensuring that your home is kept clean and free of clutter will help your dog settle in. The first few weeks in a new home can be a strange time for your dog, so make sure you do what you can to make your home welcoming.
Stock Up On Supplies
Another tip that can help you when owning your first dog is to stock up on all the necessary supplies beforehand. New dogs, especially puppies, will need a lot of play and stimulation otherwise they can get bored an agitated. Once you have decided on the breed of dog you want, you can then start researching what supplies they will need. Most puppies will start off sleeping in a crate and as they get older some will choose to continue to sleep in a crate and some may prefer to sleep outside of it. Either way, if you intend on getting a puppy, you should have a crate set up for the time they arrive. Make the crate extra cosy by putting in a plush bed and some soft toys. You can find all the puppy supplies you need from Time For Paws, so, check out their website and stock up on what you need.
Take Some Time Off Work
Having a new dog in your home will be a lot of work, so you should make sure you can provide them with enough of your attention. Taking some time off work will be a great way of ensuring you have enough time to bond with your new furry friend. Dogs are very social creatures and they do not do well being left alone for long periods of time. So, you should prepare for your new arrival by taking some time away from your job. This way, you will have all day to play with your new dog and they can start to form a connection with you.
Organise The Paperwork
Once you get a new dog, you must sort out their official paperwork straight away. This means you need to get them registered at a vet, so that if any health issues arise, they can get treated quickly. Additionally, if you intend to buy a puppy, then they will need some vaccinations before they can go outside. Most breeders will do this before you buy the puppy, but you should take them to the vets anyway, to check they have all the right jabs. You should also consider getting your dog microchipped as this will mean your dog can be traced back to you, should they get lost or stolen.
Have Fun
One of the most important things you need to remember when getting a new dog is to have fun! Although initially, it may be a little stressful, having a dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience and they can actually be good for your mental health too. Having a dog means you have a loyal companion by your side at all times, so you need to remember to have fun with your dog, even when they are misbehaving. Take the time to get to know your dog’s likes and dislikes and spend time playing with them whenever you can. Your dog’s behaviour will depend on how you train them and how you socialise them. Often dogs misbehave because they are not stimulated enough, so you must be willing to take on all of the responsibilities that come with being a dog owner.