What You Need to Know Before Bringing a New Dog Home

Dogs can be such a joy to have in our homes and can provide love and companionship in the purest form. Adopting a dog is an important decision and takes some serious consideration. If you are considering bringing a new dog into your life, here are some things you need to know before you do.

1. How to Feed Your Dog

Dog food is marketed for the dog’s age and breed. Dogs, especially puppies, are typically on a puppy core formula and continue with the adult formula after your puppy is fully weaned.

Several options are available when you go to a pet store to purchase or feed your dog. There are wet foods, dry foods (e.g., kibbles, biscuits), and even home-cooked meals. Dogs that are used to table scraps, raw foods, or “people” food may have an adjustment period. It is essential to talk to know how much to feed your dog and the frequency of feeding.

2. Dog Breeds

Different dog breeds have different needs. Knowing what breed you are looking to adopt or purchase is the first step in ensuring your pet has a home that they are comfortable in. Dogs, like goldens, have short hair and do well in warmer climates, while huskies, for example, have thick coats and require more care for their fur.

A rottweiler might not do well around small children because of its size and alleged aggressiveness. Before adopting a dog, it is essential to research the species of the dog, which will allow you to care for them properly. A teacup bulldog for sale might be a great small dog for your lifestyle and fit into your family perfectly.

3. Housing

It is crucial to think about where you will house your dog. Depending on the breed, size, and temperament of the dog you choose to adopt or purchase, it might need more space than you think. For example, a labrador retriever needs plenty of room to run around and play fetch. In contrast, a Maltese requires very little space and is comfortable in an apartment.

4. Training

Every dog should be trained to walk on a leash, stay with the family, and have basic commands (e.g., “sit”). The importance of having your dog trained to follow basic commands cannot be overstated and will make them much easier to live with. Many training courses available for dogs, both in person and online, can teach you how to train your dog correctly.

5. Medical Concerns

All dogs should have up-to-date shots (i.e., rabies, distemper, hepatitis). Dogs that have not had their shots should not be adopted out to families with children. Also, dogs are at risk of contracting different diseases, including parvovirus and leptospirosis. These “dog flu” and bacterial infections can be spread in shelters through dogs infected with the disease.

6. Grooming

Grooming your dog is important for its health. Dogs need regular baths, especially if they have long hair. It is also important to brush their teeth and keep their nails trimmed. Some dogs are easy to groom, while others may require more time or a professional groomer. It would help to consider how much time you can devote to grooming your dog. This includes brushing and combing hair, cleaning their teeth, and trimming their nails.

7. Behavior

Most dogs are friendly and love everyone they meet, but not all can be trusted with strangers, especially children. Also, some dogs can be aggressive, especially if trained to protect their family. If you are considering a dog with a protective instinct, you need to be aware of the dog’s temperaments and behaviors. Some dogs will not exhibit aggression in public but may be aggressive to others in their own homes. Dogs that can be aggressive are usually not recommended for families with children.

8. Exercise

It is essential to make sure your dog gets regular exercise. Dogs that spend all day indoors become bored, leading to bad behavior (e.g., digging, chewing on things). Dogs have a tremendous amount of energy and need time to run around or be exercised daily on a walk or at the park. You must understand how much exercise your dog requires every day.

Knowing the abilities, needs, and personality of the dog you are considering will allow you to make an informed decision on whether or not your dog is a good fit for you and your family. Don’t forget if you are considering adopting a puppy, then think about what breed and size of your household will make it the best match.