Puppies are adorable, affectionate, playful, and tiny enough to be carried around everywhere. They are difficult to resist, and that is why most people get a puppy even before they are ready for one. However, there are several factors to consider and decisions to make before bringing home a puppy.
It is vital to do thorough research first and know if you can manage a puppy and find out how you can get one responsibly. According to Georgia Puppies Online, getting a puppy gives the owner the chance to form a bond with the pet. However, people who want to get a puppy should educate themselves on how to raise puppies because it is a life-changing decision that requires maximum attention. Puppies need feeding at least thrice a day. They also need to be taken outside to relieve themselves and watched at all times to prevent them from having accidents in the house. In this article, we have highlighted essential things to remember before getting a dog.
Ensure you want a dog
Dogs are expensive, messy, energetic, noisy, and strong-willed. It is not all fun to own one. You need to be sure you are ready to commit yourself to care for the pet for an extended period. If you are crazy about dogs, know that looking after one and playing with it is a different ballgame. When you choose a dog, you are volunteering to be its parent. That means that even if it becomes a nuisance, you will not give up on it. The adorable tiny puppies grow up into big dogs that can demand a lot of energy and time from their owners
Find the right puppy
Before going out there to look for an adorable dog, it is essential first to do a dog breed search. Consider factors like the coat type and its size if you want a purebred dog. The dog’s health, energy levels, and temperament are predictable though not guaranteed. If you want a purebred dog, be responsible. Look for a reputable dog breeder and find a breed that suits your lifestyle and surroundings. Take into account your living arrangement size, the surrounding area, and your family structure.
Puppy-proof your house
Similar to human babies, puppies also love to explore and chew things along their path. Ensure the exploration areas are safe. Immediately you get the puppy, keep it in a specific area where there is nothing much to damage. Ensure the area has no poisonous plants like holly, mistletoe, amaryllis, and poinsettia. Also, keep medicines and detergents out of reach of the puppy. Restrict access to elevated decks, porches, and balconies. Secure electrical cords, remove plastic materials and close the toilet lead at all times.
Visit a reliable veterinary doctor regularly
Caring for your dog’s wellbeing is crucial. Visit a veterinarian between 1 and 4 months for vaccines that help its body resist illnesses. After the vaccines, visit the veterinarian once a year to be sure your dog is okay. Also, consider applying for dog health insurance that can cover the cost of treatment due to illness or injury. If you cannot accommodate a litter of puppies, it is essential to consider spaying or neutering to avoid surprises.
Train your dog
If you are buying a small puppy, you will need to train it to obey basic commands. There are high chances of toilet accidents taking place on your rugs or carpets, and some teeth marks on your leather couch. To avoid these bad habits, your puppy needs training, whether at puppy school or home.
A puppy can enhance your lifestyle by offering companionship. However, you need to consider a few things before getting one. Make sure that you choose the right breed, puppy-proof your home, train the pet, and choose a reputable veterinarian. To live with your pet well, exercise lots of patience with your puppy’s learning curve. Invest your time in your dog by setting out schedules for regular walks. A puppy needs lots of attention and proper love to grow into a great companion.