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New Owners
So you've made the decision to get a dog, you know the type of dog you want and now you're ready to go get him. Make sure you have everything you need before Spot comes home to ensure a peaceful and happy introduction to your home....
What you’ll need:
What to do:
What you’ll need:
- License – Most states and some counties require pet owners to obtain a dog license. Check to see if you need one.
- Food and Water – Have plenty of high-quality dog food on hand, along with bowls for food and water.
- Leash and collar – While this is a given to most of us, people sometimes forget these essentials when preparing for a new dog!
- Crate or bed – Depending on where you want your dog to sleep, you might want to get a crate. Just like human and their comfy recliners, all dogs appreciate a nice, cozy bed for relaxing and sleeping.
- Exercise area – Dogs need adequate exercise and a dog run or big yard is a great way to let a dog roam and play. If those aren't a reality, scoping out the local park is a good alternative.
- Treats – Sure, dogs can live on kibble and water, but that's no fun. We all want to spoil our dogs, and treats are a great way to show love and affection. Just be sure not to overdo it and create a weight problem!
- Toys – All dogs need stimulation and time for play. Good toys are a great way to interact with a dog and are also good tools for keeping solitary dogs occupied.
- An ID tag – This is one of the most important things you can get your new dog! To protect your dog, leave his or her name off the tag and only include your contact details. Microchipping is also a good idea -- you can get it done for about $20 at your local vet's office.
What to do:
- Prepare the family: Families with children should sit their kids down and explain what is expected of them when the new puppy comes home, be it walking the dog, feeding the dog, participating in training and socialization, or just giving the dog lots of love and affection.
- Dog-proof the homestead: Dogs are social animals and ideally should live in your house with you rather than outside. Dogs can be incredibly destructive, particularly in unfamiliar surroundings where they do not know what is expected of them. Make sure breakables or other precious possessions are protected and that anything you don't want chewed up or drooled on is tucked away.
- Consider other animals: If there are other animals in the house, make sure they can be separated for a few days before they are properly introduced.
- Consider your needs: Knowing what you expect from your dog from the get-go is a lot easier than trying to change bad habits. Plan ahead if you want your dog to sleep on its own bed or in a crate rather than with you.
- Give it time: Remember that you have made a lifelong commitment to your new dog and this is a marathon, not a sprint. Adding a new dog to the household is an adjustment for everyone. Sure, there will be mishaps, mistakes, and misunderstandings, but being patient, consistent, and loving will ensure the long-term happiness of both you and your dog.
- Plan a routine: Dogs like having a routine. Having a regular feeding and exercise schedule will help your dog adjust to his new surroundings.
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Latest page update: made by
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Keyword tags:
Crating
Dog license
Socialization
More Info: links to this page
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| Anonymous | Undecided | 0 | Jun 7 2006, 3:33 PM EDT by Anonymous | ||
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Thread started: Jun 7 2006, 3:33 PM EDT
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I found your questions and answers very informative. I am still undecided due to the fact that I work full time. I would however be able to go home every 4 hours to say hello and walk and play. I am taking all into consideration..Thank you.
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| Anonymous | nice | 0 | May 28 2006, 1:10 PM EDT by Anonymous | ||
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Thread started: May 28 2006, 1:10 PM EDT
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cool
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