30/03/2021
6 Tips for First Time Dog Owners
* Know What to Expect After Your New Dog Comes Home
-Whether your new dog is a puppy or an adult, there will be some kind of adjustment period after your new dog comes home. Prepare in advance and be patient. Dogs are often scared or overwhelmed when they go to a new home for the first time. They may hide or show signs of fear. Others may appear aloof and relaxed until they get used to life, then they even may become hyperactive once they feel confident. Some will be right at home within a day or two, while others take several months to adjust.
Adult dogs often need more adjustment time, especially if they lived in a shelter for a while. On the other hand, puppies usually need more training (especially house training). Either way, it's usually several months before you and your new dog settle into a routine.
Have everything set up at home and make a plan for everything before your new dog comes home. This will help you get off to a great start.
* Got a Puppy? Learn All About Puppies
-Puppies are amazing, but nobody said they were easy! There's a lot to learn about raising puppies the right way. Socialization, training, and vaccinations are just of few of the thing you will need to read up on and add to your to-do list.
Caring for a puppy can sometimes feel like a full-time job, especially if the puppy is very young. Start the research before your puppy comes home so you'll be ready for anything.
* Meet Your Dog's Basic Needs
-Now that you're a proud dog owner, you must master the basics of dog care. At the very least, every dog needs proper nutrition, adequate shelter, physical care, and social interaction. Once you can cover the basics, you'll be on your way to giving your dog an amazing life. Learning how to provide for your dog in advance will make it much easier once your new dog comes home.
* Find a Great Veterinarian
-Every dog needs a great vet! One of the first places you take your new dog is to see the vet. Your veterinarian will look out for your dog's health, educate you about your dog, and guide you through the world of dog ownership. Find a veterinarian you love with a great staff and team. Most of all, always keep the lines of communication open between you and your vet.
* Stock Up on Dog Supplies
-Your dog is going to need all kinds of stuff in his new home. How do you decide what your dog actually needs and what you want? Perhaps you get a bit of both. Carefully navigate your way through the world of dog toys, bowls, beds, leashes, collars, crates, and much more. There are some great pet supply websites out there where you can shop for your pooch. Plus, your town or city is bound to have some great pet supply shops.
* Choose the Right Dog Food
-Your dog's diet is the foundation of his health. But with so many dog foods to consider, you may find yourself getting overwhelmed. Learn about the basics of canine nutrition, then choose a diet that fits your dog's needs. There's no one right answer when it comes to dog food. One rule of thumb is this: if your dog is doing well on a certain type of dog food, then it's probably just fine (as long as it is complete and balanced).
