They’re soft, they’re furry, and they’re absolutely adorable. Bringing a new dog home for the first time can be an indescribable moment filled with happiness and joy. Owning a dog is a big step in life, and one that should not be taken lightly. It takes patience and responsibility to be a pet owner, and there are a lot of “what-ifs” to consider before signing the adoption papers.
Here are few things you should know when deciding to bring a pet dog into your home.
1. How to Choose Your Pet
When you’re considering adopting a dog, you should know that breed absolutely matters.
There is a huge difference between a Mastiff and a Maltese, and before you ever make a final decision you should consider the difference between different kinds of pets, and which breed is the best fit for you and your home.
If you are prone to allergies, you might want to avoid animals that are heavy shedders.
Another factor to consider is the size of your home, and whether or not you have a yard. Larger breeds typically need more space to move around, and if you’re still living in a one bedroom apartment, you might find you and your pet fighting for some elbow room.
2. How to Prepare Your Home
Once you are sure that the dog you are considering is the perfect fit for you and your home, you should begin looking into all the supplies and materials you will need to take care of your new dog.
There are entire department stores dedicated to pet care, and there are a lot of different brands of food, bedding, housing, and toys for you to choose for your pet.
Since this is your first pet, you should play it safe and stick to the essentials: a month’s worth the appropriate food for your pet’s breed, along with bowls, litter boxes (or pee pads), and a training crate.
Once you get to know them a little better you can start buying toys, treats, and other kinds of fun pet accessories!
3. How to Handle the First Day
When you bring your pet home for the first time, you should keep your expectations realistic. They will probably not warm up to you or their new home instantly. You might even want to block off one room so that they won’t run away and hide in your bedroom closet for the rest of the day.
Take it slow when first getting to know them. Sometimes, adopted pets are rescued from neglectful or even abusive homes. They might be nervous or scared around you at first, and it might be a good idea to give them a little space for them to familiarize with their new home. Try to be calm, quiet, and kind around them so they can grow to trust your presence.
4. And, How to Handle Every Day After the First
It may take a while before your dog is used to you, and it might even take a while for you to adjust to living with a dog.
The best advice to raising a pet is to keep things as regular as possible. Take your dog out to relieve themselves at certain times throughout the day.
There will be a bit of a learning curve, and you’re sure to encounter a few messes along the way.
If you want to keep your home looking and smelling clean, you should invest in a pet stain/odor remover, and you might even look into having your carpets cleaned professionally once or twice a year. In Clearwater, Florida, the average price for a deep-cleaning costs around $111-$220.
Overtime, you’ll start to know all the little quirks and personality your pet has to offer. The more time you spend laughing, playing, and caring for your dog, the deeper your bond will grow! It’s a lot of work to be a pet owner, but fewer things in life are as rewarding!
- by Jessica Brody