What an exciting experience to have and bring your first dog home. You have a best friend who will stick closer than a brother, alongside the opportunity for a series of other benefits. It is exciting to own and care for a dog. She will never judge you and will stick with you through thick and thin. 

As exciting as it is to own a pet dog, there are several things you should expect. Becoming a dog owner comes with a series of responsibilities and commitments. Think of the dog as your adopted child who relies on you for direction, feeding, guidance, and all. 

Not to intimidate you, here are six tips to guide you as you prepare to be a dog owner:

Do Your Research

If you have no experience with dogs, you need to consider several things before bringing a dog home. Make sure you are ready, physically, mentally, and financially. In other words, be prepared for the commitment. Like with a child, a new dog will be reliant on you for almost everything. It will rely on you for food, direction, guidance, etc. 

Research various breeds and choose one that benefits you, and look at the big picture—what kind of life and shelter can you provide for the dog.

Prioritize Healthcare

Registering with a vet is essential. It will help prevent and address any future health issues. The service of a vet is vital for a regular checkup. 

A vet can also help reduce the risk of some cancer, keep male dogs calm, and give tips on nutrition. Here is another common healthcare routine for dogs:

  • Essential vaccination to save her life and keep their insurance valid
  • Regular teeth brushing, at least four times a week
  • Check their ears for excess wax or any form of discharge
  • Recommendations on essential supplements to keep their bone, joint, and skin health
  • Checking for lice, ticks, and other parasites
  • Running your hand over their coat to check for bumps and sores
  • Regular grooming to keep their coat comfortable and free of parasites
  • Care for their paws and clip it if necessary 

This and many more are essential health precautions that can help you have a healthy dog. You can even make use of Sunday Scaries CBD along with some CBD snacks for your pet and yourself while going on a stroll. 

A beagle

Ensure the Food is Appropriate for the Age

Most dog foods and treats come with guidelines that can instruct you on feeding instructions for your pet. If you have an adult dog, feed him twice to avoid bloats and get a recommendation from the vet. When it comes to feeding as well, prevent constant changing of food. This action might accidentally make your dog a picky eater. 

Choose high-quality food with the right ingredients. Ensure you are aware of any allergies in your dog and other health issues. 

Prepare a Special Place for Your Dog

Your new dog will likely want to sleep by your side unless you specify a place for him. Get a dog blanket or bed, and direct him to lie on. Don't assume your dog will not like their crate – it offers a form of security, similar to what a den feels like in the wild. 

Try and train them to get used to their sleeping space. With this, it will be easy for them to go there once night falls. Give him a toy in this place. You will be surprised he might just lie down happily, occupied with the toy. This might require a couple of repetitions before he gets used to it, except you have a particular room designated for him.

Practice Leaving the Dog Alone

No matter how strong the bond between you and your dog, she needs some alone time. You will not be available for her always, so teach him to get comfortable being alone. Being alone is not punishment but part of life. 

Get them a special treat while training them to be independent. You can even make your departure something they will love if you associate it with a valuable toy or treat. With this, your pouch will know that leaving is not a punishment.

It is also essential for them to know that their kennel is the safest place in the world. As a result, relaxing there when you are not around will help avoid separation anxiety.  

Bond with Your dog

While bringing a dog home can be exciting, you need to take time to bond and build a good relationship with her. There are resources online that can help you train your dog and teach them various things. While training, however, ensures she doesn't get excessively dependent, like dogs, being a pack animal can get overly reliant on humans.

Here are essential training tips for new dog owners:

  • You are the pack leader; choose when to start the interaction. In other words, ignore the barking, jumping, fussing, etc. When ready, respond with a treat or food. The choice of ending interaction also depends on you. 
  • Have a code word – "stop" or "enough,” which you say and ignore her. Your dog will learn this on time. It can help call them to order when they get overly excited.

A border collie in a crate

Conclusion 

A simple care routine for your dog will ensure you have an excellent time together. Also, adapting to the new home will not be an issue.