For families planning to home-pet a dog, you have to understand that adding another family member is a different way. It adds up to your responsibility financially, emotionally, and physically.
It is sad to know that some first-time owners often fail to recognize the essential factors of becoming a dog owner before they consider adopting one. Surprised at how challenging it is to have a family dog, they return the dog to the shelter (or pass it on to a new owner). And worst is that the dog will live in a dog tie or cage all his life.
You need the necessary information and knowledge on different ways to look (and train) a dog before adding it to your family. A responsible owner would not stop merely by supplying them with food and water. It often involves providing their wants and needs for them to be nourished physically and emotionally.
Here are the important tips that you need to know before getting a family dog:
1. Dedicated commitment
The animal welfare associations proved that people who have expressed sustained interest in owning one could take care of it responsibly. Remember that having a family dog is a prerequisite of long-term responsibility. If you feel you can handle the responsibility, go for it.
A dog’s average existence is up to 13 years, depending on its breed, so make sure you are willing to engage in a long-time commitment to your new fur friend. It means that after a puppy period, you will continue to look after your pet until the golden years.
2. Understand the full-time responsibility
You must choose the best breed that fits your lifestyle, situation, living conditions, and family structure. And to achieve this, you may need to do some research about the breed of the dog.
Another responsibility to take into account is cleanliness. Introducing a pet dog into your family adds extra cleaning responsibility. When it comes to hygiene and cleanliness, a dog needs support to stay clean and healthy, as dogs naturally lose their hair and may get trapped in furniture, clothes, cushions, mattresses, etc.
Invest in the best pet hair vacuum to care for the hairs scattered over the house.
Another responsibility is to keep an eye on the welfare of your dog. If you fail to monitor its condition, a dog may have a greater chance of getting sick. Regular grooming, trimming, and scheduled bathing keep your dog healthy and strong. You may also tend to understand their wants by giving them the affection they need through cuddling or belly rubbing.
Finally, visit the nearby vet regularly and get to know your family dog’s condition.
3. Providing comfort
A dog’s environment also affects how him/her reacts and interacts with the people around. Giving your dog his personal space allows him/her to have a little privacy in his/her little comfort zone. Add some colorful dog pillows and sheets for extra comfort.
4. Consider your pet Dog as a family member every day
Treat your dog as a family member at all times, not just a pet to suit your wants. Show him the love, care, and affection like any human can give. It gives your pet a sense of belonging or feeling accepted by the family.
Final Words
Dogs are lovely, adorable, and a wonderful addition to the family.
When deciding to have a dog, significant factors must be weighed to understand enough about proper dog care and support. Bear in mind that a pet dog is a long-time companion. The manner you have taken care of him/her will win his/her loyalty in return, to cherish as long as he/she lives.
“A true pet-lover is a responsible owner.”