Dogs are incredibly popular pets and can quickly become treasured members of your household. They are loyal creatures that will show you a lot of love, and this is why it is important that you do your best to reciprocate this. If you have never had a dog before, you might be excited to welcome your new furry friend home, but make sure you have thought about the following to keep your dog happy and healthy in your care.
1. Understand Your Dogs Breed
If you want to make sure you are taking care of your dog properly, you should make sure you understand the specific needs of the breed. This can include things such as a certain food that your dog will need, as well as how often they need to be fed each day. All dogs will need at least one walk a day, but some breeds will require more exercise than others, particularly bigger dogs. Before you bring your new dog home, make sure you have done research into their breed, so you know how to care for them properly.
2. Make Your Home Inviting
Another way to make sure your dog stays happy is to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for them in your home. Just as you need to live in a suitable space, your dog will also need a clean and secure living environment to stay safe and happy. You might find that creating a quiet area for your dog will be beneficial, particularly as they get used to their new home. This space could include their bed, food, and water bowls, as well as some toys they can play with for comfort. You should also remove any potential hazards to keep your dog safe.
3. Grooming and Bathing
When you have a haircut or a shower, it can help you to feel revitalized, and although grooming might not be a dog’s favorite activity, it is an important part of caring for them and keeping them happy. You can purchase grooming equipment like clippers, combs, and dog shampoos and conditioners from specialist stores or online. If you do find that you struggle to groom your dog yourself, think about visiting the dog groomer, as this could be a better option.
4. Play with Them
You need to bond with your dog if you want them to feel comfortable in your home and have a connection with you. This will make you both happy and allow you both to feel safe around each other. Playing with your dog is a great way to bond with them and get their tail wagging! Particularly if you choose to share some tasty treats with your dog if they complete a trick or have behaved well. Cuddles and petting your dog will also encourage a positive relationship between you and your pet, but be mindful that you’re not crowding them too much or making them frightened.
If you want to make sure your new dog is kept happy, use these basic tips to help you ease into your role as a new dog owner.
