Things to Know Before You Get a Puppy




Dogs truly are a ‘man’s best friend,’ and although it’s true that being a dog-owner is a truly rewarding experience, dogs do need a great deal of time and love. There are a lot of decisions that need to be made before bringing a new puppy into the home, from working out if you are ready to take on the responsibility to discovering which breed is best suited to your lifestyle. If you believe that now is the right time to become a new dog-owner, this blog will provide you with some useful tips to take into consideration before you pick up your new canine companion:

1. Breed research
Some people choose a dog based on the cute factor and fail to carry out essential breed research. Not all breeds will be suited to your circumstances; therefore, you must take into account how much living space you have, how often you are able to take them on a walk, and their ideal temperament (especially if you have children). All dogs have different needs; therefore, it’s important to understand whether or not the breed you have in mind matches your exact requirements.

2. Find a good vet
Before you bring your new dog home, it would be a good idea to find a vet you’re happy with. While you may not like to think about your dog getting ill, it’s a realistic occurrence that needs to be taken into account so that you’re well prepared for worst-case scenarios.

It would be wise to check out a veterinary practice’s website to get an idea of the staff members, treatment options, and specialties; however, seeking recommendations would also be worthwhile, as many pet owners will be able to offer their own opinions as to which organization to trust.

3. Prepare the yard
If you are lucky enough to have a backyard, there’s a high possibility that your new dog will be spending a great deal of time exploring it. It’s important to prepare your outdoor space and make it a safe environment for your new canine friend.

Having a strong fence that is reasonably high and free of gaps would be a starting point. Be sure to remove all poisons, fertilizers, and other toxic chemicals that could cause your dog serious harm if consumed.
It would also be recommended to purchase residential artificial turf for dogs. Most dog owners prefer to landscape their yard with artificial turf, as it is easier to scoop up mess and prevent dead patches becoming an issue as a result of urine.


4. Dog training
If you’re planning on purchasing a puppy, they will most likely need some form of training. In the early days, they may have the odd accident in the house that needs to be addressed rapidly to prevent it from becoming a habit. Don’t be surprised if you also find teeth marks in your furniture – these are all standard puppy behaviors.
To prevent these incidences from becoming part of their everyday behavior, it would be advised to learn training techniques or take them to a puppy training class.




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