10 Things You Need To Know Before Getting A Dog

Bringing a dog home is exciting, but a little preparation goes a long way in making the transition smooth for both of you. So, before you take the plunge, here are 10 things every first-time dog owner should know.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Owning a dog is a lifelong commitment that requires careful thought about time, cost, and lifestyle.
• Every dog needs daily exercise, attention, and companionship; make sure you can provide all three.
• Dog-proof your home and budget for ongoing costs like food, equipment, and vet fees before bringing a dog home.
• Consider your family setup; some breeds suit children and pets better than others.
• Always have a reliable support network in place for when life gets in the way.

What Are Essential Tips For First-Time Dog Owners To Ensure A Smooth Transition?

Before your new dog comes home, stock up on the basics: a comfortable bed, food and water bowls, a collar and leash, an ID tag, some toys and a grooming kit. It's also worth sticking to whatever puppy food your dog is already used to for the first few days, gradually mixing in anything new such as PEDIGREE® dog food over 7 to 10 days, so you don't upset their tummy. Here are 10 more things you need to keep in mind before getting a dog:

1. A Dog Is For Life

The average lifespan of a dog varies considerably by breed, with small dogs typically living longer than big dogs. Whatever type of dog you get, though, it's a long-term commitment. It's important to think not just about how a dog will fit into your life now, but how things will work in the years to come.

2. Dogs Are Time-Consuming (In A Very Lovely Way!)

Having a dog is similar to having a small child; they take lots of your time, attention and energy, but you get lots of unconditional love in return. Are you prepared to make time in your day to feed, walk and play with your furry friend?

3. Dogs Cost Money

Over the course of a lifetime, dogs can cost you quite a bit. There are the initial costs, including adoption fees and essentials such as a bed, bowls and a lead, and then the ongoing costs for food, equipment and vet fees.

4. Dogs Need Exercise

It could be that one of the things that most excites you about having a canine companion is the idea of long walks. But if you're not keen, or able, to go for a long walk every day, you'll need to consider a breed that doesn't need much exercise. Do remember that every dog needs some exercise to stay healthy and happy though.

5. Some Dogs Are More Child-Friendly Than Others

If you've got little people in your household, there's no doubt they'll be very excited at the thought of having a new furry friend, but some dogs are much better around children than others. This is a matter of breed and individual temperament, so it's worth teaching children a few doggie dos and don'ts early on, such as approaching calmly and letting the dog sniff them first, rather than rushing up with sudden movements or loud noises. Whatever the dog's temperament, never leave a young child and a dog unsupervised.

6. Your Dog Needs To Get On With Your Other Pets

If you’ve already got a dog, cat or another type of pet, it’s important to consider how the new dog is going to get along with them. Perhaps your existing pet is a pensioner, in which case he or she might find an older dog a more acceptable companion than a younger, more energetic one. And, just as it’s worth talking to shelter staff if you’ve got kids, it’s worth sounding them out about how your potential new family member is likely to integrate with other pets.

7. Your Home Needs To Be Dog-Friendly

You don’t have to have a six-acre garden in a village to get a dog, but you do need to make sure your home is pet-proofed. This includes making sure any toxic foods or cleaning products are out of reach and making sure that things like hanging cords are tucked safely out of the way. If you are lucky enough to have outdoor space, which is very difficult in Indian cities, remember that some plants are toxic if eaten. Pet-proofing your apartment isn’t just about protecting your dog either; if you’ve got an expensive piece of furniture, a cover or a throw is a good idea.

8. A Dog Affects Your Social Life

Imagine friends suggest a spontaneous trip to the cinema. I'm in, you reply, before looking at the sad, little face staring up at you (the expression puppy eyes didn't come from nowhere). Of course, even the most dedicated pet parent might have to leave their dog alone now and again, but the point is it's always something you'll have to factor in.

9. And Your Holiday Plans

You look forward to that trip away all year long, right? Nothing could get in the way… except your dog, that is. There are dog-friendly stays available if you fancy taking your dog along, but if you're headed somewhere that isn't practical for pets, you'll need to make sure you've got someone reliable who can look after your dog while you're away. Which leads us neatly to

10. You Need Back-Up

Ask any parent, and they'll tell you need a back-up team who can help out in unexpected circumstances. It's just the same for pet parents. Do you have friends or family nearby who'd happily take your dog on for a walk if you're laid up with flu? If the answer to that is no, you'll need to think about dog hotels or dog sitters.

Conclusion

Ready to start thinking about adopting a dog? You might like to check out our article on which is the right breed of dog for you. And don't forget it's always a good idea to quiz shelter staff. They know the dogs they care for very well and will be able to give you lots of advice.