Adopting a dog is one of the best feelings. Dogs make wonderful pets; they are loyal, friendly, and silly! However, having a dog comes with a lot of responsibility. If you’re a first-time dog owner, you’re probably bursting with both happiness and nervousness—and that’s totally normal. To make the journey easier for you, we’ve got the top 10 things you need to know as a new dog parent.
Choose the Right Breed
Not all dogs are the same. Some are active, said Dr. Angela Hughes, a veterinarian who is the veterinary genetics research manager at Wisdom Health, the manufacturer of the Wisdom Panel dog DNA tests, and require a lot of exercise, she said, while others are calmer and would be a better fit in a smaller home. Before even considering getting or purchasing a dog, research their breeds, temperament, and care requirements. Go for a breed that suits your daily life.
Puppy-Proof Your Home
Dogs are naturally curious. They enjoy chewing, sniffing, and exploring. Keep your home safe for them by removing toxic items like electrical cords, cleaning supplies, and small objects that can be swallowed. Develop a safe place for your dog to chill out.
Provide Proper Nutrition
Your dog’s diet is essential to his or her well-being. Puppies require protein-rich, healthy food, but an adult dog may be kept on a balanced diet to maintain energy and weight. No matter how they beg, don’t feed them things such as chocolate, grapes, and onions, as they can be poisonous. Always keep fresh water available.
Regular Exercise is a Must
Dogs are lively creatures that need exercise on a daily basis. The exercise these pups get from walking, running, or playing fetch helps keep them fit and healthy and can help deter behavioral issues such as barking or chewing. As with everything, it all depends on the breed and how young or old your dog is.
Socialization and Training
Start training your dog from the very beginning. Teach them basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." Positive reinforcement (treats and praise) works best. Also, let your dog meet other pets and people early on—this makes them friendly and confident.
Grooming and Hygiene
Dogs need regular grooming to stay clean and healthy. Brush their fur, trim nails, and give baths when necessary. Long-haired breeds may need more frequent grooming to avoid tangles. Also, don’t forget about dental care—clean teeth are important for overall health.
Visit the Veterinarian Regularly
Your dog’s health should always come first. Schedule regular vet checkups, vaccinations, and deworming. Early detection of health problems can save your dog from serious issues later. Keep a record of all vaccinations and medical history.
Be Patient and Consistent
It takes time to train and bond with your dog. Puppies do silly things like chew on shoes or have accidents inside a home. Give the rules time and be consistent. Dogs learn better when they feel loved and safe.
Provide Mental Stimulation
Dogs are easily bored, and boredom can result in destructive behavior. Offer them toys, puzzles, and activities that keep their brain engaged. Simple nose work with games like hide-and-seek for treats can put your dog in both a good mood and a sharp mode.
Give Them Love and Attention
More than anything else, dogs want love and friendship. Give your pup some dedicated hangout time (play, snuggle, talk to them). When dogs feel loved, they are more loyal, obedient, and emotionally stable.
Final Thoughts
Dog ownership is a great thing, but it also means a lot of responsibility. When you follow these 10 key tips, not only will you have a happy, healthy dog, but you’ll establish a lifelong relationship based on trust and love. Remember, your dog is fully relying on you—so be the best caretaker you can.
A well-loved dog will be your most loyal friend for many years and bring you unparalleled happiness.