When it comes to owning a pet dog then some of the things that you can do is play things by ear. You can adapt and see what happens with you and your family. But there are some things that are definite dos and some things that are definite don’ts. Right from getting your pet dog to how you take care of them, there are quite a few different things to think about. In fact, right from the start, one of the first don’ts is all about not encouraging inhumane and irresponsible practices that happen around dogs, such as puppy mills or dodgy backyard breeders. So one of the first dos can be that you to ‘do’ consider adopting a dog.
As the saying goes, don’t breed or buy while there are shelter pets that die. There can be some fantastic dogs that are looking for a home. Even if you are looking for a purebred dog, you might be surprised by just how many purebred dogs can actually be found in shelters or in rescue centers. If you do have some worries around adopting a dog, then it is a good idea to look into rescue pets that have a foster system in place. The reason for that is because things like the dog’s temperament, energy, and some other quirks will all be recorded so that you can find the dog that will best suit you and your family situation. Rescue dogs can have a bit of a reputation to be ‘problem’ dogs, but really, according to the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy, the reasons why dogs are given up is rarely because of biting or bad behavior. The truth is that the majority of dogs are given up because the owners aren’t able to meet the needs of the dog in whatever form.
So with all of that in mind, here are some of the dos and don’ts when it comes to owning a dog.
Don’t get a pet on a whim
There is an old saying that a dog is for life and not just for Christmas, and that is something that is so true. Another of the reasons why dogs are given up is because they are bought as a gift or just bought without really thinking things through. So don’t just get a pet dog on a whim. If you are thinking of getting a breed of dog that you don’t have experience with, then that is something to really think about. If you don’t do your research then it could mean that the dog isn’t actually suited to being around young children, for example. And that can then mean having to give it up. So make sure that you have done your research and that you aren’t biting off more than you can chew, so to speak. They need to be considered as part of the family, almost like a child, and that isn’t something that can be taken lightly.
Do understand that a dog does have costs
No matter where you get your pet from, there are many different costs to think about. Which goes hand in hand with the first point of not getting a pet on a whim. There are costs associated with food for your pet, as well as pet clinic bills, vaccinations, transportation, and other costs like bedding and comforts for them. Sometimes people can just assume that because there are many unwanted dogs out there, that rescue centers should just give out the dogs for free. But rescue centers do important work and really care for these animals, so it does make sense that there are costs with getting your dog, even if it is from a rescue center.
Do be prepared for an adjustment period
If you have a new dog from being a brand new puppy, then there are a lot of things to consider and adjust to, because it can almost be like having a newborn baby in the house. So that is something to consider and to be prepared for. But if you do choose to get a rescue pet then it is likely to have had quite a hard life, and there may be some adjustments for them as they learn to live in a home with a family or a couple. It is so important to remember that these things can take time. In some instances, having some professional training might be necessary. The effort to do it and train your pet is going to be a big adjustment, but it really is going to be worth it.
Do make sure you have the space
Another reason why people give up their dog is because they don’t realize how much space a dog may need. You don’t need acres and acres of land or anything, but having some adequate facilities for your dog is really important. If you live in a small apartment, as an example, then getting a large dog or even a high-energy dog might not be what works for you. So taking some time to research the breed that you are looking to get is really important. Know what needs the dog you are looking to get needs, and what kind of environment is needed to help to fit their needs. You should also think about how any other pets that you might have could impact your new dog. Some dogs might not work well if there are cats in the house as well, for example. If you don’t get it right then it can be a mix that doesn’t work well. So research really is key to know how best to care for them.
Having a pet is a wonderful thing and there are many rewards and benefits that come from having a pet. You just need to make sure that your home is ready for them and that you are prepared to be able to give them the best life ever. Enjoy your new pet!
