There’s nothing more exciting than a new addition to the family, especially if it’s a furball ready to supply you with unconditional love! Before you start searching for the perfect pup to add to your family, inform yourself of everything to consider before adopting a puppy. After all, puppies are a lot of work and require loads of attention—if your furry baby feels ignored, it may cause a bit of trouble.
Is the Family Ready?
Everyone in the household should feel prepared for this addition. As cute as puppies are, they can also cause stress if you’re not ready. One reason people return puppies is poor preparation, and this isn’t fair to the dog. Part of the preparation includes finding a vet and obedience school.
Keep a Schedule
Unlike adult dogs, puppies require a strict bathroom schedule until they are completely house-trained. Many puppies need a bathroom break in the middle of the night.
Hold a family meeting to establish a schedule for bathroom breaks, feeding, training, and playtime. If those living in the house can’t agree, now may not be the time to adopt. You want to give your furry friend the perfect life filled with attention and care.
What Kind of Pup Fits?
As you think about everything to consider before adopting a puppy, consider the following:
- Size
- Coat type
- Activity level
- Vocal level
Remember, some breeds are more patient than others and do best with families. Some traits are more common in certain breeds than others. Take the Golden Retriever, for example—they’re usually affectionate and playful, but every dog is different. Remember, dogs are like people, and each has a specific personality.
Get the Gear
Before you welcome your puppy home, gather the necessary supplies:
- Leash
- Collar and harness
- Food and water bowls
- Crate
- Brush
- Dog bed
- Toys
While your dog will need pet food, you may want to hold off on this. The shelters or breeder may already have the dog on a certain diet, and introducing a new food brand could upset a puppy’s stomach.
Puppy Proof the Home
Do your research on puppies and breeds if you’re looking for a specific dog. Remove any safety hazards. Puppies are masters of destruction, after all—you look away for two seconds, and your pup’s decided that your shoes a perfect chew toy!
Keep these items out of reach:
- Toxic plants
- Cleaning products
- Food
- Medication
- Electrical cords
Everything is a chew toy to a teething pooch, but some items could put your canine in danger. Stay on your toes and make sure your new puppy has a basket filled with exciting toys. Then, when the big day finally comes, remember to give the newest member of your family a warm hug!
Encourage the family to bond with the puppy.
One way is to do things together. Go for long walks. Take you new pup for a drive somewhere where it can run free like a large field or woodland. Create a fun activity like a cute puppy photo shoot. Dog’s aren’t always easy for all family members to get on with at the beginning. Your child may have a fear of dogs. Take the time to allow the human-animal bond to settle in.