The Humane Society needs all first-time dog owners to know its core value. To end suffering for all animals.
Unfortunately, many new pet owners are surprised to learn that puppies show normal, natural behaviors in the form of shedding hair, chewing, marking the furniture and house, digging and barking! Shelters are filled with innocent, six-month-old abandoned puppies. The Humane Society wants new pet owners to remember a few core values.
Puppies become unwanted when new owners are not prepared for the extreme importance and responsibility of pet ownership. Being aware of some of the modern dog-friendly preventative measures and solutions will go a long way to raise and train dogs in a happy home.
When a dog enters a new home, it is an exciting event. Dogs are the friendliest of creatures among all other household pets. Puppies arrive with playful exuberance, have sweet faces and a warm body to cuddle with. They are hard to resist. All of this adds to the beginning of a wonderful friendship. They portray extraordinary levels of loyalty and provide protection from intruders. It is fundamental to note that they are good play buddies too and have the potential to bring unending joy to a home.
Nevertheless, with dog ownership, comes its own set of responsibilities and requires planning. Some of us are wired with the misconception that, if we want a dog, we go to the shelter and bring one home. Or, act on feelings of loneliness to bring a dog into the home. What we need to consider is that, like we humans, dogs are social creatures who need love, training and adequate attention.
Start with a well thought through plan in order to transition the dog, or puppy into your household.
Become a responsible owner first by brushing up on your dog/puppy education!
Before your dog comes home, it’s a good idea to weigh the pros and cons of adopting an adult dog versus getting a puppy. Of course, an advantage to choosing a pup is that as an owner, you can mold the puppy’s behavior to suit your lifestyle. This means taking the time to conduct proper training.
In some ways, a slightly older dog may be a more suitable companion, especially for a family that is busy themselves. Shelters are filled with dogs that are under the age of one year. An adult dog may have manners and a temperament that is well-established. However, an older dog may have habits that are more resistant to change. It may take longer to choose the right dog with the right personality that’s a good fit for the family and home.
It’s only fair that you take the time to find out what to expect beforehand.
1) Ask yourself why the right time for a dog is now. Will I have time to train those traits and behaviors to suit the household? Can you properly provide all that’s needed to care for a dog? A new puppy will arrive eager to please, so his development is in your hands. You must teach him what to chew on, when to bark, where to eliminate, where to dig, how to greet people. He will enjoy the company of strangers and children, plus other household manners when you teach him well. Dogs do not arrive in a perfect state!
2) Learn how to potty train your dog. One of the most common occurrences that bother most people is when they find dog poop on the floor or littered in inappropriate areas outside. In order to avoid this, the best course of action is getting acquainted with the puppy to learn and predict when he “wants to go.” Your dog’s living arrangements will go a long way to teach itself to use an appropriate toilet area and to settle down and listen to your instruction.
3) Stock up wisely. There is nothing as draining as bringing home a dog only to realize that you do not have the proper playroom space. This requires a comfortable bed, blanket, a chew toy, a fresh supply of water and a toilet.
4) Schedule time for fun activities. Dogs do get bored easily and will need some playtime. They are curious and will check into everything they can get their noses into. It would be wise to never leave your pup alone to roam freely in order to avoid unwanted damage to your home or the dog. It’s critical to match your choice in a breed of dog with your activity level.
golden retriever, animal shelter
5) Choose a qualified dog veterinarian. Your dog does not need to get sick for you to visit a vet. In fact, they can be a resourceful partner to educate you on health and behavior ahead of when your pup arrives home. Regular check-ups and visits at the vet clinic will ensure that your dog always stays safe, happy, up to date with shots and disease-free. It is prudent to establish a good relationship with your pet’s veterinarian who will generate a schedule for regular well-visits.
What the Humane Society wants all first-time pet owners to know is to research and use all the resources at your disposal to care for their animals for life.
Your personal touch to help create a wonderful house dog will occur with patience, control and common-sense. It is a worthwhile experience to rear a dog to adulthood. You have the power to influence your dog in the first few days of being in your home for years to come.
