Owning a dog is more of a privilege. While these furbabies can be the best pets you can ever have, you need to be ready with responsibilities. Take note that there are adjustments you need to make, especially when it comes to your daily routine. Here are a few things to consider before getting a new dog:
1. Be Familiar about the Breed You Want to Get
Each dog breed is different and may have specific needs. For example, Bulldogs, Pugs, American Bullies and other breeds with shorter snouts are prone to respiratory diseases. As much as possible, choose a breed that can match your personality and lifestyle. If you’re looking for a dog, you can take with you in morning walks, and other physical activities, breeds like German Shepherds, Jack Russel Terrier, and Labrador Retrievers are perfect workout buddies.
Consider the climate in your area, as well. Dog breeds such as Alaskan Malamute, Chow-Chow, Siberian Husky, and Tibetan Mastiff thrive well in colder places. These dogs are prone to heat stroke. They may live in hotter areas, but you need to enhance with their kennel. You should also monitor them during the summer season.
2. Be Ready with Certain Adjustments
Just like having a child, adopting a dog is a lot of responsibilities. This means sacrificing some of your time. Some of the vital routines you need to do every day include feeding, cleaning their kennel, bathing them, and walking them. You should also bring them to the vet for checkups. If you have a puppy, make sure to check their medical records for vaccines.
Besides, dogs are very sociable creatures. They want to bond with their furrents as often as possible. So, before getting a new dog, you need to make adjustments with your time and financially.
3. Do More Research about Proper Nutrition
This is usually the problem with most furrents. The lack of information about dog nutrition can take a toll on your pet’s health and wellness. Don’t just buy kibbles randomly from the local pet store. Dogs can be allergic to different ingredients. Some breeds may develop skin problems and other diseases because of improper diet.
As much as possible, choose quality dog food for your furbabies. Your feeding schedule should also be on point. For puppies, you need to divide it to at least 3 to 4 meals. On the other hand, you can feed adult dogs twice a day. The serving per meal depends on size, weight, and activities. In addition, stay away from dog food brands with corn, soy, and by-products. These ingredients are not suitable for your dog.
4. Consider Hiring a Dog Trainer
If you’re having a hard time correcting your dog’s behavior and other poor habits, it is advisable to look for dog obedience training in Loxahatchee. Most dog schools have a specific course designed to help your pets develop their behavior. This early course includes crate training, introducing a leash, and socializing with other pets and human. From there, the trainer can start teaching a few tricks like sit, come, play dead, and roll over.
There are also dog schools that focus more on different standard shows. These professionals can help improve your dog’s balance, stacking, and ramp walking.
These are the few things you need to consider before bringing home a new dog. Again, always do your research and consider all the changes you need to make.
