5 crucial tips for first-time dog owners

One of the most moving events in your life is taking your first-ever dog home. Taking a dog home is like adding a new member to the family. Dogs are perceived to be the most loyal pets you can ever own. Plus, bringing them home means you’re giving them a chance to have a better life, a better home, and a better family to take care of them. If you’re a first-time dog parent, bringing them home may also feel like a honeymoon phase for you. 

However, it’s not always excitement and euphoria. As for some, being a first-time dog owner can be overwhelming and scary. There’s a lot more that needs to be done for your dog other than bringing them home. Deciding to be a dog parent is a big commitment that comes with crucial responsibilities. As mentioned earlier, getting a new dog means you’re adding a new member of the family. As a first-time dog parent, it’s your responsibility to look out for your dog’s nutrition, health, entertainment, and, of course, care and affection for the rest of their life. 

While you need to do plenty of work for them as a first-time dog parent, the benefits outweigh any possible drawback.

Here are five crucial tips you must remember as a first-time dog owner to help you start on the right track:

Gather information you need from the vet

After you’ve adopted or bought a dog for the first time, it may be best if your first trip together will be at the veterinarian’s office. Assuming that you don’t know much about the dog breed you got and all the specific things they need to live healthily, the safest person for you to consult is the vet. Your chosen veterinarian will help you know more about your dog, their breed, their specific nutritional needs, as well as their required vaccines. Some dogs are brought with complete vaccines, while some have none at all. 

While you’re in the vet’s clinic, grab this opportunity to ask as many questions as you can as to all the things you’ll need to prepare for your new dog. Some vets may even suggest some particular pet stores that could provide a unique offering for pet parents and their respective pets. So, choose your vet and listen to them attentively.

Pay attention to your dog’s feeding guidelines

Understandably, some first-time dog owners quickly assume that you can feed your dog anytime, any random amount of serving, with random food. Unfortunately, doing so will only risk your dog from becoming overweight or, worse, may lead to severe dog health problems in the future. To make sure you’re feeding your dog the right way every single day, don’t forget to ask your vet about the specific feeding guideline for your dog. Most dogs are fed twice a day, while some are fed once. 

Together, you can work on the best health and diet plan for your dog, which suits their needs and type. Moreover, as much as possible, avoid feeding your dog with lots of human food as some human foods are too dangerous and toxic for your pets. It’s best to stick to the dog foods your vet has suggested that you buy and serve for them.

Gather important dog supplies

Aside from dog food, there are numerous other things that your dog will need in its daily life. Some of the essential dog supplies you must prepare at home include dog toys, beds, food bowls, dog collars, leashes, crates, and much more. Plus, don’t forget to buy the grooming supplies you’ll need for your dog.

There are many websites out there that offer spectacular dog supplies where you can shop for your dog’s needs. If you’re not sure what to get, hear some advice from your vet, or you can also call on the help of your friends or family who’ve been experienced dog parents for several years. They can recommend dog stores, websites, and the right supplies to get for your pet. 

Train your dog as early as you can

Regardless of breed, every dog will need careful training from its owners. Training your dog as early as possible will help you have more control over them and provide a sense of structure. Soon enough, this will help both you and your dog establish a good relationship and personal language between each other.  

One crucial part of the training you mustn’t forget is their potty training. During this training, you’ll need to teach them the best time to have their poop business and make sure they stick to this regimen. If you haven’t potty trained before, you can always check out a guide or consult your vet to help you create an effective training schedule for your dog. Don’t rush and take your time each day with dog training. After all, this will help boost the special bond you and your dog will share.

Let your dog socialize

Aside from your dog’s food, health, and nutrition, don’t forget that dogs need some time to socialize and interact with other animals and humans. Letting your dog socialize and interact with new people and pets now and then, you’ll boost their ability to develop healthy relationships with them. Make sure you create first a socializing plan to ensure the process will go smoothly.

Wrapping up tips for a first-time dog parent

Now that you know the crucial tips to keep in mind as a first-time dog parent, it’s time you enjoy the fun part, which is witnessing your dog grow and feel more at home in your arms. Don’t forget to enjoy those years with your dog. If you meet any trouble about their behavior or health along the way, don’t hesitate to consult your vet for any questions and concerns.

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