Things you need to know before getting a puppy

When your dog is a puppy, you should begin teaching him or her. There are a lot of things you can do on your own, but it's always a good idea to get some expert advice. In this course, you will learn how to effectively work with your puppy, including how to train her not to jump up on people.

It's a great opportunity for your dog to meet new people and interact with other dogs during training. Thus, he may get used to being among people other than simply you and your loved ones. It creates a more docile and well-adjusted dog as a result.

Puppies, Like Babies, Are Kinda Gross

Dogs are a nuisance to clean up after. Pups may not leave a lot of poop in your yard while they're puppies, but puppies eventually mature into dogs. Prepare yourself for the unpleasant task of cleaning up excrement, both inside and outside the home. While you're working on toilet training, there will be a lot of accidents (which is where those potty pads come in handy).

There will be more than just messes to clean up with puppies gnawing on anything from toilet paper rolls to your child's toys.

Should You Purchase or Adopt?

When it comes to purchasing a puppy from a breeder, it's not a terrible idea. Although there are a lot of dogs at shelters waiting for a new home, the kind of dog you're looking for must be taken into consideration.

Shelter puppies are a great option if you're looking for a companion. A purebred dog from a reputed breeder is required if you're seeking for a show dog. A dog from a puppy mill, on the other hand, is not something you want to do.

In puppy mills, female dogs are bred excessively, the pups are typically neglected, and the circumstances in which the animals are kept are appalling. The owners are just interested in making a profit, and they have little regard for the welfare of the dogs they sell.

 Dogs are for life

 Because the average lifetime of a dog is 13 years, you'll need to be prepared to devote a significant amount of time and energy to your new canine companion. That implies that you should continue to care for your pet throughout their adolescence and into their golden years.

Breed research

 Before you walk out and buy the first cute puppy you see, you should conduct some study on dog breeds. A dog's breed should be chosen based on your own preferences and the environment in which you live. Take into consideration the size and location (whether it's a metropolis or a rural region) as well as your family structure (whether you have children or are living alone).

Time-consuming

 You'll have to give up a lot of your free time. Bringing a new puppy into your house implies that you accept the duty of caring for a live creature whose demands often take precedence over your own. As a result, you may find yourself spending more time and effort on this little creature than you anticipated or are used to. Unlike in the past, you can't suddenly pack your bags and go off for a weekend of fun with your buddies at the last minute. In advance, decide who will feed, walk, and look after your dog while you're away.

Lifetime costs

Dogs are an investment, so be sure you can afford to care for one from puppyhood through old age. The costs don't stop when you get your puppy, which typically costs between £300 and £900 depending on how much you are willing to part with. For your pet's well-being and security, you must provide regular veterinary care, enough food and water, a comfortable bed, an appropriately fitting leash and collar, and a variety of other items. There is an average lifetime cost of having a dog of roughly £16,900, however this may vary greatly depending on the dog's breed, size, and general health. 

Pet healthcare

 The health and well-being of your dog are of the utmost importance, therefore make sure you have access to a close veterinarian. Throughout your dog's life, there will be good days and bad days when they require medical attention. Just like humans, your dog is susceptible to illness and injury, so it is important that you keep track of the vaccines he or she receives to ensure that they are as healthy as possible. You might consider purchasing health insurance to assist pay for unforeseen medical expenses.

Exercise needs

Dogs have a lot of energy and need to be exercised on a regular basis to maintain their health. This includes going for a walk with your dog at least once a day to a nearby park or playing in your backyard. When looking for a dog, keep in mind that certain breeds demand more physical activity than others. 

How many times a day do you have to walk your puppy? In addition to having plenty of room to run and play, your dog will benefit from regular, scheduled sessions of organised exercise.

Your dog will sleep better at night and be less destructive if you take him for a walk and play with him every day. A dog who has gone for a walk and used all of his pent-up energy is less likely to destroy your prized possessions like a pair of shoes.

You must like walking and have the time to do it, since walks don't cease when your dog is a puppy. You and your dog will both profit from it. 

Child-friendly

Having children, the thought of a dog showing up under the tree at Christmastime will be exciting. However, before you acquire a dog, make sure your children and the dog have met each other. Before making a surprise purchase, make sure the youngster and the dog are comfortable around one other.

Pet-proofing your home

Once your new pet is here, everything in your house will be different. Your dog and your furnishings will be safer if you "pet-proof" your house. Things like hanging wires and vertical blinds should be kept out of your dog's reach, as well as any hazardous foods. When it comes to protecting costly furniture, a cover or blanket is a smart idea, as is training your dog to not jump up on it, if you choose. 

Dog training

In light of the aforementioned, your new dog will need extensive training, particularly if you get a puppy at a young age. Don't be surprised if you find a few teeth marks on your favourite pair of shoes or a few stains on your rug. As a puppy owner, you'll need to put in a lot of time and effort to avoid your dog from developing harmful behaviours like this one. 

Final Comments

Dogs are a delight, but they also need a lot of time and effort, especially when they're pups. Before you bring your new pet into the house, make a list of everything she'll need.