If you are, or know, a new dog owner then this essential guide of helpful tips for new dog owners is for you. Every fur parent needs to know these tips.
You finally did it! You made the decision to bring a new addition to the family home. He might chew on your shoes and whine to be held, but he’ll bring you unconditional love for the rest of his life.
Whether you decided to adopt an adult dog or a puppy, you might be looking for a few tips for new dog owners. Owning a dog is rewarding in so many ways, but it’s also a big responsibility. Do you know what it takes to properly care for a dog?
It’s best to do some research on how to take care of a pup before you bring him home. With love in your heart and a few minutes of your time to read through this new dog owner guide, you’ll provide a happy home for your new family member.
Continue reading below for our checklist for new dog owners!
1. Know Your Dog’s Breed
One of the first things you should do is look up as much information as you can about the specific breed of dog you’re adopting. All dogs want love and attention, but not all dogs require the same type of care. What do you know about the breed of dog you’re bringing home?
What is this breed of dog’s natural temperament? How much exercise does this breed of dog require? How often will you need to take him to the groomer?
Is he a long-hair or short-hair breed, and how will affect possible allergies in the home? Are there certain medical conditions associated with this breed? These are all the questions you should know the answer to before deciding if a breed of dog is right for you and your family.
Knowing about the breed can also ensure you take proper care of him.
2. Purchase a Dog Tag
A comfortable and properly-sized collar and dog tag is your next step. You want to have dog tags for your dog in case he were to ever be lost. The dog tag will provide his name and your contact information if he were to be found by someone.
You can also place your pup’s veterinarian information on his tag as well. Some tags will allow you up to 200 characters, which is plenty of space to include all the information you need.
3. Find High-Quality Food
Do you know what kind of food you want to feed your pup? It’s important that you do your research on the best types of food for your dog’s breed before selecting food to give him. Most dog food found on the shelf won’t have high-quality ingredients.
It’s best to find a food brand that lists a type of meat as one of the first ingredients. You also need to take into consideration the food he was eating before you brought him home and his age.
Be sure to speak with his veterinarian about finding food that’ll provide him with all the proper nutrients.
4. Create a Space for Them
You want to bring your new pup home to a comfortable and safe space that he’ll love. Create a space for him before you bring him home. You’ll want to have a comfortable dog bed in an area away from high traffic.
A quiet and calming place is a great spot for his bed. You can place a few toys in the bed as well. The bed you choose should be big enough for him to move around in and should have enough padding so he doesn’t feel as though he’s sleeping on the floor.
5. Work on a Routine
If you make a routine for your pup and stick to it, he’ll soon become used to it and expect it. Find a routine that works best for both you and your dog. If you have a work schedule, then you can make his schedule around yours.
Wake up in the morning to take him out at the same time each day. Visit him on your lunch break to take him out again. Then, take him out in the evening at the same time as well.
Provide his food at the same times each day, and establish a routine bedtime as well. If he gets a treat after coming inside from a walk, then be sure to give him one each time. When you create a routine, it makes it easier for everyone.
6. Remain Patient
Remember that all of this is new to your pup just as it’s new to you. He’s coming from a completely different place and will need time to adjust to his new lifestyle. If you’re bringing home a puppy, then you’ll need to have even more patience.
Puppies will have high energy, will have accidents on the floor, and will find just about anything to chew on. Prepare for this. Expect it.
Plan ways to prevent incidents from happening before they happen to keep the stress levels down.
7. Hire a Dog Nanny
When you’re unable to tend to your pet because you’re away from the home for a while, you’ll want to have a trusted dog nanny by your side. It’s important to have a dog nanny that your pup is familiar with and comfortable with.
Each time you need a dog nanny or someone to walk your dog for you because you’re stuck at the office, be sure to have the same team or person each time. This way, your pup feels safe.
8. Be a Considerate Neighbor, and Pay it Forward with Rentals
Just because you live in a pet friendly building or home does not always mean it will remain that way- after all it is up to the owner to discretion if they would like to switch it to a pet-free home after you vacate the rental. Make sure that you are respectful of the hard wood floors by getting the proper amount of carpet or rugs to help absorb the noise of paw nails scratching or tapping on the floor outside of courtesy hours. And remember just because your neighbor doesn’t write you a note, doesn’t mean that he/she hasn’t reported you the landlord or a hotline for nighttime noise disturbances for your pet interrupting their sleep. In fact, it is cited at the #2 cause of sleep disturbances after human neighbors.
Don’t Forget These Tips for New Dog Owners
Adopting a dog is a great decision for you and your family. He’ll come with lots of love and plenty of memories to make with you. Write these tips for new dog owners down and keep them handy when you need a refresher, and you’ll be the best dog parent in town!
When you find yourself in need of a dog nanny or some more advice about your pup, be sure to check out our services list to see how we can help you!
