Everything You Should Know Before Getting a Dog
Dogs are a good source of comfort and support. They are rightly referred to as man’s best friend: they greet you after a long day’s work, always ready to keep you company, and even in some cases, sense when you’re sad or in need of attention. While getting a furry friend could be a great … Continued
Dogs are a good source of comfort and support. They are rightly referred to as man’s best friend: they greet you after a long day’s work, always ready to keep you company, and even in some cases, sense when you’re sad or in need of attention. While getting a furry friend could be a great idea, it should be planned, thoroughly considered, and planned again.
Just like any relationship, you should be prepared to experience some down times but be ready to hold unto them regardless. These are few tips to consider before you choose a canine friend.
Different breeds for different folks
We are sure that the first thing that comes to mind when searching for a dog, is to scour the internet, savoring the very cute pictures of different breeds clothed in fancy dresses. News flash – choosing a breed based on a social media picture, is not recommended for you, or your new family member. Before you choose, consider the living space available, your lifestyle, research different breeds and their demeanors, needs, and if your everyday schedule in conducive to the happiness of your wanted furry friend.
If you have a family, it’s very important to get a dog that has a more playful demeanor like a labrador or golden retriever. A wag of the tail, ears pulled backward, and eagerness to play is a good sign that your dog is happy.
You have a baby now!
No more unplanned night-outs, club visits, weekend getaways, vacations, and so on. It’s official: you are no longer the sole owner of your time. Before stepping out, you should remember that they need walks, food, and attention. Make them your priority which may come at the sacrifice of your personal needs.
They need walks
Humans need to exercise. That’s the same with your furry friend. Some breeds need walks more frequently than others which is why research is vital.
Apart from exercising, dogs go to the bathroom outside. Taking them on walks gives them the opportunity to relieve themselves, expel built-up energy and interact with other dogs.
The younger, the more difficult.
Don’t be fooled by the adorable pictures of puppies that litter the internet: they can be a menace. Puppies require maximum attention and care. They climb, bark, and display mood swings just to get your attention. They need to be trained and they grow – something many people forget when looking at an adorable puppy. If you decide to get a puppy, be ready for them to grow into adults, understand the attention they will require and make sure your home is large enough to accommodate them when they are older.
What’s more?
Training puppies isn’t a walk in the park. You should prepare for a few stains on your favorite rug (before they’re potty trained), scratches on your shoes, bite marks on your sofa, and so on. Training your puppy could be done in-house or at a puppy school.
Even with the stress involved, getting one is surely a decision worth making.
New holes in your pocket
Apart from the amount spent on purchasing your furry housemate, you’ll still have to spend on collars, a bed, feeding, veterinary care, and the likes. Your new budget must include your dog and these costs are ongoing such as their food and medical needs.
Seek your veterinarian’s advice…often. A veterinarian should be your closest ally on this new journey. Seek advice on vaccinations, what to feed them, how to deal with health challenges, and so on.
Just like any living being, you should expect health challenges here and there. Dogs are unable to communicate how they are feeling making it even more prudent to confer with your veterinarian on the best approach and treatment regimen to implement.
With the right research and some forethought, you can rest assured that you are doing what you need for your new furry friend – and reading this post means you are definitely on the right track.
