Dog ownership can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but it can also be one of the most challenging if you don’t know what you’re doing. From choosing the right dog to taking care of your dog once you bring him home, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of how to take care of a dog and make sure he remains happy and healthy throughout his life.
If you want more information on how to train or take care of your dog you can check dog magazine.
1) Get to Know Your Dog
Once you have your new dog, it is important to get to know him. Spend time with your dog and see what he likes to do. Dogs like different things, so take some time to figure out what your dog likes and doesn’t like. For instance, does he like to chew on things or does he prefer a toy? Does she enjoy going on long walks or would she rather just lounge around the house? Does he love being petted or is that too much for him? These are all questions to ask yourself when you first get a dog because they will help give your insight into what your dog wants. Don’t be afraid to ask your vet if there are any questions about taking care of your pup!
2) Set Up a Safe and Comfortable Space for Your Dog
For the first few months after you bring your dog home, it’s important to set up a safe and comfortable space for him to call his own. Make sure that the space has a bed, toys, water, food, and anything else he might need. This will help your dog feel at home and know that this is his place in the world. You may also want to make an area off-limits like a kitchen or bathroom so he won’t get into trouble while exploring. Keep in mind that not every dog will have separation anxiety, but if yours does, then make time each day for quiet time with them so they don’t get too lonely when you’re gone.
3) Establish a Feeding Schedule
When you first bring your new dog home, it’s important to establish a feeding schedule. Once you know how many times a day your dog needs to eat and what time they should be fed, you can set a timer or alarm to let you know when it’s time for their next meal.
It’s also important to keep your dog on the same feeding schedule so that they don’t get too hungry and overeat or under-eat. You want to make sure your pup is getting all the nutrients he needs for his age and size.
Give them Fresh Water: Make sure you’re giving your pup fresh water every single day! Dogs need lots of water because they are generally outside playing all day long. If they don’t drink enough water, they can become dehydrated very quickly which could lead to health problems.
Stay away from sugary drinks like soda as well as alcoholic beverages because these contain lots of sugar and alcohol which dogs cannot process.
If you take your dog hiking or camping with you, it’s always best to carry an extra supply of bottled water for them just in case there isn’t any available at the campsite.
4) Get Your Dog Used to a Routine
Before you bring your new dog home, think about how they’re going to spend their day. If you have a normal 9-5 job, they’ll need to be walked early in the morning and then again at night. You’ll also want to make sure they get plenty of exercise during the day. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog! The other thing you’ll want to do is set up an area where your pup can go outside. It’s good for them to relieve themselves as soon as they wake up in the morning and before they go to sleep at night.
It’s important that you keep dogs out of places where they could be in danger, like on countertops or near open windows.
You don’t want to train them to jump up on things they’re not supposed to! Another tip is to get them used to wear collars and leashes so that it’s easier when you take them out later.
5) Exercise Your Dog Regularly
One of the best ways to take care of your new dog is to make sure they get plenty of exercise. Dogs need a lot more exercise than humans do, so you should be taking them on long walks every day or playing fetch with them at the park. Plus, it’s really fun! You can even let them chase after their favorite toy and play tug-of-war with them as well. As an added bonus, exercise will also help keep your pup slim and healthy as well. It’s not always easy to find time to go on walks when you have other things going on in life, but don’t let that stop you from getting outside and having some quality time together.
6) Socialize Your Dog
The first step to taking care of your new dog is socializing them. You want to expose them to as many new experiences as possible so that they can learn how to behave in all kinds of situations. To do this, take them on walks around the neighborhood, introduce them to people and other animals, and teach them basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leave it. Be sure to praise them when they obey you, even if they don’t get it right away.
They should never be tied up or chained outside. Allowing a dog to roam off-leash is a great way to allow him the opportunity to meet new friends and experience life at his own pace. Just remember not to let him roam too far from you!
7) Train Your Dog
Training your dog is an important part of taking care of him, and in return, he will be a better companion. The more you train your dog, the less likely it is that he will need to be disciplined. Training also helps establish dominance, which can help with other behavioral issues. You’ll have greater control over what he does or doesn’t do if you’ve been consistent during training. It’s never too late to teach old dogs new tricks, so don’t worry if your pup didn’t come with some skills.
8) Groom Your Dog Regularly
You should groom your dog regularly to keep them looking clean and attractive. This will also help with shedding and any matting that might happen. Brush their coat at least once a week, preferably daily in the warmer months. Bathe your dog when they need it.