The Best Therapist Has Fur and Four Legs
Anyone considers becoming a dog owner feels overjoyed at the thought of attaining this goal. Even every kid would be overjoyed to have a new pet. However, there are a few things to think about before bringing a dog into your home, particularly if it is your first ever pet. Anyone getting a dog for the first time should take some time to learn as much as possible about caring for their new pet. You soon learn that your pet is dependent on you for the rest of its life. You are bound by responsibilities, both monetarily and in terms of the amount of time and care you can provide to your pet. Furthermore, selecting a dog has more to do with what is best for you, your surroundings, and lifestyle than the singular notion of owning a gorgeous, lovable pup. Sirwiss has partnered with dog trainers and behavioral experts, who advise avoiding distressing catastrophes caused by inexperience and a lack of preparation. Continue reading to learn all there is to know about getting a new canine companion for yourself.
The Fundamentals of Dog Ownership
The first question to ask in order to have a dog that fits you and your family is if you are prepared to take on the everyday duty of being a dog owner. Dogs take a lot of attention. They need nutrition, exercise, veterinary care, and training. They must be socialized adequately with humans, other pets in the home, and other dogs. All of these aspects need both money and time. You’re still not quite ready to go out and acquire a dog just because you’ve given it some thought and concluded that you can manage everything involved.
Take some time to reflect about the following questions before bringing a dog into your house.
1. Why do I desire having a dog?
2. Do I have enough time for care and training?
3. Will I tolerate shedding hair, dog slobber, or the occasional mishap?
4. Do I have the required patience?
5. Can I train calmly and consistently?
6. Is there enough area?
7. Can I afford the maintenance?
What Every New Dog Owner Should Know
Before you adopt your dog, it’s a good idea to understand the fundamentals from informative books, online or local dog specialists. If you’ve never trained a puppy before, for example, you should attend a few training sessions conducted by Sirwiss-affiliated dog trainers and learn before bringing your dog home. Prepare a shopping list and gather all of the essential equipment and materials well in advance. Set aside money for the first veterinarian inspection, vaccines, and spay or neuter expenses. Start preparing your children, you have any.
Avoid these Mistakes When Adopting a Dog
If you wish to ensure you don’t mess things up, consider these suggestions.
1. Energy Levels: You and your dog should have similar energy levels.
2. Age of the Dog: To prevent “cute” puppy behavior from turning destructive, you must devote far more effort to training during the first 18 months.
3. Always Spay or Neuter Your Pet: Maintain frequent veterinary visits for your dog.
4. Basic Obedience Instructions: If you don’t do it, someone could be hurt, could be even your dog.
5. Introducing Human Food Without Proper Insight: Certain solids may be difficult for dogs to digest, and some might even make your dog ill.
Choosing From a Range of Breeds
There are hundreds of different dog breeds to pick from. Different dogs perform well in different conditions; for example, if you live in a small space, a Saint Bernard or Great Dane may not be the best option. Border Collies are incredibly intelligent and easy to train, but they are hard workers that need a lot of exercise. Different dogs, like humans, have diverse personalities regardless of breed. Some people struggle with children and their pets, particularly when they have young ones. Take your time and do your homework. If you would like to learn more about various dog breeds and how to choose the best one, you may reach out to the Sirwiss network of experienced dog trainers and specialists.
Is It a Purebred or Mixed?
Many of the available canines are mixed breeds, and they are often so much less expensive than purebred dogs. A purebred dog has the benefit of being bred to have certain features. If you want a retriever, choose a hunting dog breed like a Labrador or a Springer Spaniel. A mixed breed dog may make an excellent companion, and its lineage is unimportant if the dog is not required to fulfill certain responsibilities. However, keep in mind that there are no assurances with any dog, purebred or not until they are properly trained.
Would You Adopt Instead of Buying?
Experts from Sirwiss network say there is always risk when making a purchase from a pet shop. Dogs from “puppy mills” are sold at many pet shops. It’s possible the animals were reared in appalling circumstances, with little nutrition and no human interaction. A reliable breeder will take the time to ensure that their pups are healthy and happy, and will also be happy to advise you on which dog would make the best addition to your family. Animal shelter and rescue staff are more likely to take the time to ensure you find the perfect dog for your family when you adopt from them. Each of these canines has undergone a thorough health and behavioral evaluation.
Getting the New Dog: What to Do
Before you bring your new puppy home, go through your checklist to ensure you’ve completed all of the necessary preparatory tasks. Take a day off from work and don’t make any other plans. Sirwiss-associated dog experts tells you to take plenty of time and not to hurry the animal, even if it wants to spend an hour inside the traveling crate. Simply sit there and speak calmly. Explore the yard with the dog on a leash at the animal’s pace. Children and other pets should be kept away from the dog until it has calmed down, and then interactions should be supervised. You may invite guests into your house once your new puppy has completely settled in.
Take Good Care of Your Dog
You should do more for your dog than just provide it food, water, and exercise. In all likelihood, bathing your dog on occasion will be essential. Ear mites and fleas are other common problems that may need medical attention. Many canines benefit from frequent nail trims. The coat of long-haired dogs has to be combed frequently to prevent matting. Grooming is beneficial for all dog breeds, including those with short hair. The Sirwiss network of pet groomers makes it possible to get your dog professionally groomed without ever leaving your home.
Never attempt training a dog while you are feeling worried or irritated, since the dog will pick up on your moods and mimic them. Never lose your composure. Screaming or yelling is not encouraged. Say “no” to the dog firmly if you must. In the event that the animal suddenly gets aggressive, you must not attack it, however you must take necessary precautions to protect yourself. Use the whatever the command, allow the animal some time to react, and then praise and reward it when it does what you want it to. You may train your dog with the help of a professional trainer from the Sirwiss network, and this enables you to teach your pet the basics of obedience at the comfort of your own home.