The purpose of this article is to encourage you to think creatively when preparing for the arrival of your new dog. As someone who works professionally as a dog trainer and pet sitter, it saddens me to witness dogs being rehomed due to issues that could have been anticipated or prevented. My aim with this blog post is to motivate you to take extra steps to ensure a long and fulfilling life with your furry companion.
All in all, congratulations on getting your new fur baby or taking the steps to learn more before jumping in full force.
THE BASICS
First things first, Research and Choose the Right Breed: Start by researching different dog breeds to find the one that best fits your lifestyle, living situation, and preferences. Consider factors such as size, exercise needs, grooming requirements, and temperament.
Of course, you probably already have the essential things your dog will need to be welcomed into their new furever home. But let us cover them just in case. They will need appropriate food for their diet, bowls, leashes, collars, and proper toys that fit their playstyle and are deemed safe for them. Something you might not have had on the list is a first aid kit. You can make one on your own, or purchase one online.
Find a Veterinarian: Research and locate a reputable veterinarian in your area, just in case our First Aid kit isn't sufficient. Schedule a visit for your new dog's initial health check-up, and vaccinations, and to discuss spaying or neutering if applicable.
set your dog up for success
If you are anything like me your dog will quickly become the highlight of your life. We want to repay them by making their life as easy as possible. You can accomplish this by, setting your dog up for success. Setting your dog up for success involves minimizing its chances of failure, or at the very least, significantly reducing those chances. Whew! – This sounds daunting, but it is completely achievable.
Be Patient and Flexible: Adjusting to a new home can be overwhelming for a dog. Be patient, understanding, and flexible as your new companion adapts to their new surroundings. Provide lots of love, positive reinforcement, and create a bond based on trust.
"Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them, and filling an emptiness we didn't even know we had." - Thom Jones – SEO specialist
body language
Another thing you should do before bringing your dog home is to learn dog body language. A great book that I read while enrolled in CATCH was Canine Body Language: A Photographic Guide by Brenda Aloff. This is a great resource for first-time pet owners or those who want to brush up on their skills.
routine
That leads me to my next tip, brainstorm your dog’s daily routine. One of the best things you can do for your dog is to put them on a consistent schedule. If you work during the day, who will let your dog out to potty while you are away? Or will they go to doggy daycare? Could you come home on your breaks to let your dog out? Consistency and predictability will help your new dog settle in more easily.
grooming
Next up is grooming. Once you know the breed of dog you want, then assess their grooming needs. Are you getting a Beagle that you could possibly groom yourself with cooperative care training? Or are you getting a Maltese that needs professional help?
3-3-3 rule
The last but more important thing to remember when bringing your new dog home is the 3-3-3 rule! The first 3 days your dog will be anxious and unsure of their new surroundings. After 3 weeks you may see them starting to settle in and realize this is their forever home. By 3 months you and your dog should have built a foundation for a bond that will last a lifetime.
The three-month mark is also when your dog starts showing their personality and behavioral issues are discovered. Dogs require consistent training to learn basic commands and develop good manners. Brainstorming a Certified Dog Trainer or Behaviorist before your dog comes home is a great way to be prepared when issues arise.
you are ready!
I hope this blog post has inspired those who have the desire to be dog parents to go for it! If you still feel overwhelmed or want additional guidance, reach me here! You can also follow me on Instagram for more tips or subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated with our latest updates.
Don’t allow behavioral issues to stop you and your family from enjoying time with your best friend. Carter’s K-9 can help you understand what your dog needs. Call us today so we can help at 214-298-1152, and visit our website for more content related to dog training.
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