5 Must-Know Tips for First-Time Dog Owners
With so many post-pandemic new dog owners, many are looking for tips on caring for and teaching their new best friend.
While immunizations, check-ups, and selecting the best dog food are all important aspects of dog ownership, your local veterinarian will be the best source of information on all of these topics.
However, if you’re new dog parents bringing a new pet home for the first time, here are some pointers on creating a dog house where your pet feels like a family member.
Establish a connection
Dogs, like humans, have their distinct characteristics. Some are more lively and playful than others, and they all have their peculiarities. Even though you have some expectations for your dog based on their breeding, ensure you're willing to let them develop their personality.
Take the time to get to know them and learn about their preferences. Don't be frustrated if they don't want to learn the hilarious tricks or special commands you wanted to teach them or if they neglect the dog goodies you thought they'd enjoy.
As you create a growing relationship with your new dog, you will continue to learn how to be a good dog parent. Patience is required. Focus on laying a solid foundation as a first-time dog owner to ensure your new best buddy has the greatest life possible.
Teach insightful techniques
Like many people, the adorable and humorous ones come first when it comes to dog training and teaching commands and tricks. You can focus on teaching your dog "tricks" to make him simpler to control and keep him safe as he gets older.
Though it's amusing and adorable to see them sit up on their hind legs or tumble over when you say "bang," it's also a good idea to be practical with your tricks. Teaching your dog clever tricks with practical applications can truly keep them safe and out of harm's way.
Teaching your dog not to run away while off-leash, to sit on the sidewalk and wait for a command before crossing the street, or to run for a toy to deliver to a visitor when the doorbell rings (to prevent them from barking or jumping) are all fantastic ways to “gamify” your dog's life. If you're unsure what to teach your dog or if they're having trouble, hiring a dog trainer is a good idea.
Make Use of Their Intelligence
Got an Energizer bunny at home? You’d most likely end up frustrated, realizing that no matter how long you throw the ball, your pet dog will always want more. He won’t shed his hyperactive streak even after waiting years for him to calm down. The truth is, most of his hyperactive energy during playing stemmed from boredom during the rest of the day.
Dog puzzles, such as a feeder, proved to be the most effective way to intellectually tire him out and lessen his desire to burn off physical energy. The link stemmed from the fact that the only toy he wouldn't damage is a feeder ball and that he would frequently only eat food that fell from it (leaving his dog dish full and untouched). The feeder ball can turn out to be psychologically interesting for them.
You may have a lot of time to devote to playing with your dog as a first-time dog owner, or you may have less than you anticipated. Suppose your dog is left to entertain himself for a short or long amount of time. In that case, it's crucial to know that the hyperactive energy, destructive activities, or other behaviour difficulties that result are typically signs of boredom. The good news is that even if you don't have time for a five-mile trek, keeping your dog amused and pleased with puzzles or chewing toys is possible.
Consider the Long-term Effects of Your Current Habits
Over the past year, everyone spent more time at home due to the pandemic's "new normal." Remember, though, that things won't always be this way. Even if your daily schedule is excellent for house training a puppy or acclimating a new dog to your home, consider how it will affect them if your pattern changes.
A dog who has grown up with or become accustomed to having you around virtually all the time may experience separation anxiety when the world suddenly opens up again. Dogs are perplexed as to why you would suddenly trade Zoom meetings for coming into the office five days a week, and this can be jarring.
In a similar spirit, pups should have plenty of opportunities to explore and experience freedom independently. While it's lovely to cuddle with them, they can't always be in your arms as they grow older, especially if they're a larger breed.
Experiment with Leaving Your Dog Alone
Practice leaving them at home as if it were a day at work, showing them that it isn't a punishment for something they did, but rather a normal part of life. During the trial time, give them a special treat to make your leave something they can look forward to. Your dog will gradually associate your departure with a delicious treat.
It will be easier for your dog to stay in their kennel or dog bed during the day if they are taught that it is a safe place for them to sleep and relax at any time. For potty breaks and a little playing, you may hire a dog walker, pet sitter, or doggy daycare facility (especially if they are not fully house-trained yet).
To ensure that your dog is comfortable with these unfamiliar people and situations, you should find these services before needing them. It is preferable to undertake this type of socialization sooner rather than later.
Before We Go...
You're already on your way to becoming an exceptional fur parent who understands what a dog needs as a new dog owner who is actively seeking out suggestions and assistance. Continue to learn alongside your pet and take pleasure in the experience!
This article was written by Melissa Hansen, a seasoned writer with contributions to niche BC outlets like Forever After and Bridgewell Group. When she is not crafting content, Melissa enjoys her time with a hot cup of coffee in one hand and an inspiring book in the other.
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