Adopting a dog? Here’s how to avoid 4 common mistakes

A new pet is a super exciting change, considerable responsibility, and lifelong commitment. While you might not think there’s a wrong way to go about the adoption process, some serious mistakes can be made, and it’s in your best interests to avoid them.

If you want to ensure you don’t have any regrets down the line, take note of the most common adoption mistakes new owners make when adopting their first (or fifth!) puppy.

Not researching or planning ahead

Planning and researching aren’t steps that should only be applied to buying a home or car — you must also research your new pet; not doing so is a common adoption mistake

. All dog breeds are a little different regarding their needs and temperament, and you’ll need to ensure that your lifestyle will align with their care.

Aside from researching, it would be best to plan for the new arrival by purchasing the essential items they need and puppy-proofing your home by hiding loose wires and installing an electric pet fence to keep your pup safe.

Underestimating the financial commitment

Another critical factor is the money. Many people make the common adoption mistake of leaping into the adoption process without fully understanding how much it costs to keep a pet.

There’s a lot more to consider than just the adoption fees and buying dog food every week. Your pup will be expensive upfront — vet checks and shots, neutering, and buying all the essentials like food bowls, beds, and toys.

However, it doesn’t stop there. You’ll need to consider ongoing medical bills, pet insurance, food, treats, grooming supplies, and more!

Ignoring training and socialization

Many new dog owners are unaware of how necessary training and socializing a puppy is. Training them while they’re young will help you solidify habits and behaviors early on — remember the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks!”

Ensure that you make dedicated time for training every day. Teach your pup to listen, potty train them, and guide their behavior around other dogs and people.

Getting them accustomed to socializing will make your life much easier later when your dog knows the right way to behave around guests. Taking this step early on will have you thanking yourself in three years!

Neglecting stimulation

You might go for walks every morning and evening, but your dog needs brain training, too! Failing to challenge your dog mentally is a common adoption mistake.

Puppies and dogs of all ages need mental stimulation alongside their daily physical activity, and it’s your responsibility to ensure they’re getting it.

Mental stimulation for dogs can come in many forms. You could enroll them in puppy classes, engage in a training session at home, or perhaps purchase a few toys that allow them to use their noggins – like a treat trapped inside a ball.

Not every day needs to look like this, though. Sometimes, simply engaging with your pup and spending time with them will do the trick.

Avoid adoption mistakes

There are a few common adoption mistakes that new pet owners make which can be avoided by doing some research and planning ahead.

Some of these mistakes include underestimating the financial commitment, ignoring training and socialization, and neglecting stimulation.