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Everything You Need To Know To Get Your 1st Pet, Hassle-Free

Helping Your New Pet Settle In

As your pup settles in and starts to feel secure, his personality will start to shine through.

The first few weeks after adoption will most likely be a bit of a hurricane, but keep in mind that he is getting to know a new place as well as a new person, people, or animals.

Here are some things you will need to remember during the first few weeks of your new pup being home.

These will go a long way towards building a great foundation for you and your new best bud for years to come.

Patience

This is the most important factor here.

Your pup will be surrounded by new things and people, and he may forget any housebreaking hes learned.

Messes may well be a part of life for these few weeks, as well as some compulsive behaviour such as chewing or licking.

All of these come simply from nervousness or excitement, and should settle down as he gets more and more comfortable in his new home.

Quality Time

Bonding is super important, especially in these uncertain weeks of your dogs life.

While we understand that work cant be ignored and groceries need to be bought, try not to leave your pet alone for extended periods of time.

If he has to be alone, make sure he has toys to keep him busy, as well as enough water.

If you have to be out during the day, be sure to give your pup plenty of love and attention when you arrive home.

This way, he will learn to look forward to you arriving instead of pining when you leave.

The more time you spend with him or her, the more youll bond and the happier your dog will be.

Happy dogs make for happier (and healthier) owners, too!

Setting Behavioural Expectations

There is a huge difference between punishment andpositive reinforcement, and we advocate positive reinforcement all the way.

This doesnt mean simply praising your dog for everything, though.

Praising good behaviour is essential, as it will stick in your dogs brain that if he does this thing, he gets cuddles or a treat. You need to pay attention and be liberal with the rewards early on, until it becomes a habit.

Of course, if your dog does something they shouldnt, you absolutely should correct that behaviour.

That doesnt mean harsh punishment, though a simple No, and showing your dog the right way to do things, and then rewarding them for doing it right will help. Stay consistent with it and youll see good results.

Training

If your new pup needs some training, the first few weeks of him being home is a good time to start.

Not only will it teach him new things before he gets too settled into old ways, it will be a great time for you and him to bond.

You may have already found some trainers nearby, so book a session and see what its like!

It may take your pooch a couple of sessions to get into the swing of things, but that positive reinforcement, play element, and bonding time with mom or dad will soon become a thing of enjoyment and excitement.

Love

Thats really what its all about, isnt it?

Sure, training and exercising and establishing behavioural standards are important, but at the end of the day, having a dog is all about love.

Dont think a rescue dog will have less love to give, either often, these little guys and girls have all the more love and affection for someone who simply loves them back. But if you feel like going the extra mile, you can always give them extra toys or you can also buy pet portraits online from Instapainting.

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Ultimate First-Time Dog Owners Guide

Finding Your Feet as a First-Time Dog Owner

Every new dog owner wants to give their pup a happy life filled with love, companionship, and fun.

If youre considering bringing home a canine, youre likely excitedand maybe even little overwhelmed.

Were the first to admit that dogs are a big responsibility, especially in the beginning. Ask any dog owner about the initial growing pains, however, and theyll almost always tell you the rewards are well worth the work.

At Breed Advisor, were passionate about helping first-time dog owners navigate the new and exciting world of dog ownership.

From pet-proofing your house to bringing home your pup and establishing a daily routine, this article will cover many topics that will relieve some of the stress associated with becoming a pet parent. We hope the information provided here will make the process a more enjoyable one.

Like bringing home a new baby, you might recall the first several weeks of dog ownership as a bit of a haze. Fortunately, your pup will grow and learn quickly, and shower you with an unlimited supply of unconditional love and gratitude for giving him a forever home.

In this comprehensive guide, well cover everything you need to know about owning a dog. Whether you need a complete overview, or you have a specific dog-related question, read on!

Below, youll find loads of helpful information broken down into four easy-to-navigate categories, including:

• Choosing a Dog
• Bringing Your Canine Home
• Raising a Great Dog
• Properly Caring for Your Pup

Our ultimate goal is to make your transition into pet ownership an easy and enjoyable one. Lets get started!

Choosing a Dog

You may have a specific dog breed in mind, or you might be open to suggestions. Some folks are drawn to larger breeds, while others prefer smaller pups. We understand that physical appearance is often a driving factor when it comes to choosing a dog, but we highly encourage future pup parents to consider the following factors before selecting a four-legged family member:

• Take your living space into account, as well as your outdoor space. Larger dogs and working breeds need lots of room to explore, play, and be active. Do you have a yard or access to a nearby dog park? These are important considerations.

• Consider your lifestyle. If you have limited time at home and prefer a cuddly companion, opt for a breed that is content with plenty of downtime. If youre active and would like to include your pup in fun activities, an energetic breed is your best bet.

• Check into breeds that meet your familys needs. If you have young children, we recommend mellow breeds in lieu of aggressive breeds. Allergy sufferers do best with less-allergenic pups, but its important to keep in mind that no breed is completely hypoallergenic.

• Consider how much time you can devote to your dog. Even beyond the first few weeks, dogs require ongoing training, grooming, and a daily dose of together time. They also need exercise, and time devoted to play. Some breeds require lots of training and frequent grooming and/or medical care, so carefully researching the needs of multiple breeds will help you make a good choice!

For more tips on selecting the perfect dog for you and your family, check out our helpful guide: How to Choose the Right Dog Breed.

Bringing Your Canine Home

While its important to choose a dog that will fit into your current lifestyle, its also essential to consider the future before making an ultimate decision. According to PetMD, dogs typically live anywhere from 8 to 11 years, so prospective dog owners should be ready and willing to make a long term commitment.

Supplies

Once youve chosen a pup, youll need to pick up a few supplies before introducing your pooch to his new home, all of which can be found at your local pet store or online:

• A collar and leash: Take these along when you pick up your pup. Some shelters and breeders do send new pet parents home with basic supplies, so check beforehand to see if these items are provided.

• Food and water bowls: Place the bowls where you plan to keep them to avoid confusing your pet.

• Food and treats: Opt for high-quality food that contains meats, grains, veggies, and fruits. Unsure which brand to purchase? Check out this page. Treats should also be rich in nutrients and low-calorie.

• Dog bed: Your pup will appreciate having his own little corner in your home. Spruce up his spot with a comfy, supportive bed.

• Carrier and/or crate: Your puppy or adult dog will need lots of wiggle room, so be sure to invest in a crate or carrier thats roomy. You may need to upgrade as your canine grows. We have numerous articles relating to crate care and safety, including how long should my dog be left in crate.

• Preventative medications: Check with the shelter or breeder to see if your dog has been given flea/tick prevention and/or heartworm medication. If not, speak with your pets veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

• Toys: Pick up an assortment of toys to determine which types your pup likes best. Try rotating toys to help stave off boredom.

Curious about the cost of owning a dog? We break it down here: What is the True Cost of Owning a Dog?

Dog-Proofing Tips

Ahead of bringing your pup home, youll want to prepare every room hell have access to. Its important to thoroughly dog-proof your house prior to his arrival. The following checklist will make the process quick and easy:

• Choose a dedicated area for your dogs food and water bowls. Avoid high-traffic areas to ensure your pup can eat and drink in peace.

• Select a spot for your dogs bed and/or crate. We recommend a quiet place thats not completely isolated.

• Install any necessary gates and/or pet stairs. This will help cut down on the commotion after bringing your furbaby home.

• Scour your home for household cleaners and store them out of reach. Many cleaners are hazardous to pets, so its best to choose products that are pet-safe.

• Tuck away loose cords, as your dog might mistake them for chew toys.

• Place all breakables in a safe place, especially if your dog is large or a high-energy breed.

• Make sure your houseplants arent accessible, as many plants are toxic to pups. For detailed information and a list of toxic plants, visit the ASPCA

• Pick up toys, clothes, and other belongings. Do a quick sweep of your home for clothing items, shoes and slippers, childrens toys, and any other items you prefer to keep slobber-free.

Creating a Welcoming Environment

A warm and welcoming space will help your dog adapt to his humble abode. You can make his homecoming a happy one with the following tips:

• Let your dog settle in before introducing him to loved ones. It may be tempting to invite family members, friends, and neighbors over to meet your new pet, but holding off for the first week or so is highly recommended. You and your family can spend this time getting acquainted with your pup. Meeting new people can be overwhelming for canines, so stick to immediate family at first.

• Take your dog on a tour. When you arrive home with your pup, show him around. Before going inside, take him on a tour of the yard, and show him where hes expected to pee and poo. Once inside, focus on the areas that will be accessible to your pup. Acquaint him with the spots hell be eating and sleeping.

• Establish a routine and house rules right away. Your new pet will develop trust and feel more at ease if you implement rituals early. Sticking to regular feeding times, exercise time, playtime, snuggle time, and bathroom breaks will show your pooch he can count on you. Establishing house rules is also important, as inconsistencies will result in confusion for your canine. Related: Check out best dogs for the single guy.

• Acquaint your dog to your neighborhood. Dogs are curious, social creatures, so venturing outdoors will likely become a daily highlight. When you explore your neighborhood together, be sure to keep your pup on a leash and adhere to the rules and laws specific to your area.

Raising a Great Dog

Training a dog is an ongoing process. The most well-behaved pups are well-loved, well-trained, and typically raised in relatively consistent households.

The following tips will help you raise an amazing pup:

• Practice patience. If youve ever been in an unpredictable environment, you know how off-putting and nerve-wracking it can be. Dogs sense their owners emotions, picking up on subtle cues like gestures, body language, and facial expressions. When you become irritable, your pet will undoubtedly notice. Practicing patience will build trust between the two of you and allow your dog to relax.

• Train your dog to be safe. Its essential to train your dog with safety in mind. Teach him to come when called and to go outside only with your permission. Pups can be impulsive, so implementing safety rules early on will help keep your dog safe.

• Dont go it alone. Training a dog to be his absolute best takes a collaborative effort. At home, the entire family should be involved in the training process, and its incredibly important for each family member to be consistent. Dog training centers are an amazing resource for canines of all ages. We recommend checking reviews for local centers before enrolling your pup. Were also massive fans of dog training extraordinaire Zak George. You can check out his wildly popular YouTube channel here.

• Use positive reinforcement. Just like humans, dogs thrive on praise and positive interaction. Treats and toys are great, but love and attention are even better! Dogs who are constantly scolded, and those who are raised in unpredictable environments, become fearful and confused. These canines often take out their frustration by withdrawing and exhibiting bad behavior.

Properly Caring for Your Pup

Taking good care of your pet will increase the chance of him living a healthy, happy life. You can help your pup live his best life with these tips:

• Make physical activity part of your daily routine. Being active on a regular basis is just as important for animals as it is for people. Make daily walks or jogs part of your daily routine, play fetch in the yard, or create a makeshift obstacle course indoors. Check out our recent article, 15 Fun Activities for You and Your Dog, for more ideas!

• Treat your dog to high-quality food. Your pet deserves nutrient-rich food and treats, so its important to opt for high-quality kibble and snacks. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps, and limit treats to 10% of your pups diet. Portion size is also an important consideration. Check with your pets veterinarian for recommended serving sizes. Additionally, make sure your dog always has access to clean, fresh water.

• Encourage socialization. Puppy playdates are an excellent way to introduce your dog to fellow canines. Aside from meeting other pups, socialization also involves adapting to society by familiarizing your pooch with various types of people, different environments, etc. The more you expand your pets world, the richer his life will become.

• Schedule regular checkups. Most dog experts recommend an annual veterinary exam. Puppies require more frequent visits for routine vaccines and checkups. Some breeds are prone to health conditions, which may require frequent examinations. Be sure to follow your vets recommendations regarding frequency of visits.

• Give your dog a job. Everyone needs to feel a sense of purpose, and this certainly doesnt exclude canines. Dogs were initially bred to carry out specific jobs, so giving them a daily task (and praising them for it!) will give them a sense of purpose and pride.

• Get your dog spayed or neutered. To give your dog the best chance at living a long, healthy life, spaying or neutering is highly recommended. Pups who are fixed are generally healthier overall and exhibit fewer behavioral problems.

• Prioritize together time. Perhaps most importantly, your dog needs to know hes loved and valued. By prioritizing your time together, youll show your pet that hes an essential part of your life and family. Theres no substitute for quality time.

Need more advice on creating the best possible life for your dog? Check out this helpful article, which highlights 15 ways to enhance your dogs health and happiness.

Taking it One Day at a Time

As with any new adventure, dog ownership involves a learning curve. Be patient with yourself and your pup. Itll take time to get acquainted, establish a routine, and form a lifelong bond.

Were here to help as you navigate daily life with your four-legged companion. If youre considering multiple breeds, check out our Detailed Breed Guides to assist with the decision-making process. We also invite you to stop by our blog regularly for helpful hints, tried-and-true tips, and encouragement along the way.

Welcome to pup parenthood! Theres truly nothing like it.