So, your mind is made up, you’ve researched different breeds and have decided to adopt a canine companion. Not a cat, not a gerbil, not a parakeet but a dog! No matter whether you obtain your canine from a pet store, rescue, shelter or breeder, the requirements to properly take care of a dog are much the same. There will be certain differences required depending on whether the dog is an older mature adult or a puppy.
First and foremost is preparing your home for the dog. Where will the dog stay most of the time, inside or out? If out, do you have a fenced yard when the dog is out or how will the dog be contained so it doesn’t run off? If not a fenced yard, possibly a kennel? If that is where the dog is to stay the next thing to consider is your year round climate. The dog will require protection from the elements. It will need shade from the hot summer sun, heat and humidity and somewhere warm and dry in rain, hail and snow storms not to mention severe cold and wind chill temperatures.
If the dog will be kept in the house it will need to be house trained to not eliminate inside. A crate is good for this. Not only can you contain the dog when you can’t be home but it also creates a safe feeling and place for the dog to be as dogs are considered den animals similar to wolves and coyotes. The crate will help to keep the dog out of trouble.
A good quality dog food and dish for the food will need to be purchased, as well as a water bowl, a collar and leash, grooming tools-brush, comb, nail clippers and shampoo unless you decide to hire a groomer will keep your dog in tip top shape.
So, your home is ready, you’ve made your purchases and have picked out the dog of your choice. You are now ready for the big day when you bring your new dog home and begin to learn all there is to take care of a dog. Don’t make it harder than it has to be. Get to know the dog, take him from room to room in your home and let him sniff and get to know your scent. Take him outside and walk him around the borders of your yard. Fill his water bowl with cool clean fresh water and give him a drink. If it is around meal time when you will be normally feeding him, prepare his food bowl. When he has finished eating, take him outside again for awhile and give him a chance to eliminate. If he is not ready then, wait awhile and try again. Let him rest in his new environment and get used to you. When bedtime arrives, make sure to take your new companion outside one more time and then put him in his crate if that is where he is to sleep. Make sure to praise him each time he does what you are trying to get him to do. Communication with a dog is very important but takes time. Include play time and training and it will all fall into place quickly and soon you will be a disciplined dog owner and care giver.
Don’t forget to properly clean and care for your dog as well as locate a good vet who will administer the proper vaccinations and medicines needed for flea and tick control and a healthy life to help you enjoy life with your new companion and take the very best care of your dog.