Some dog breeds do better with families, others are calming for people with anxiety, but the main thing about them is that they can make a person’s life more fulfilling.
The only thing they need in return is to be cared for in the way they deserve. Perhaps understanding how to responsibly care of a dog will help to dispel your fears about giving a dog its forever home.
Training is essential
All dogs need training whether toy breeds or big breeds as both can wreak the same amount of havoc in your home if left to their own devices.
A badly-trained small dog can develop an unpredictable bad temper and may snap or bite if left unsupervised around young kids.
It’s important to train dogs well and to consistently reinforce this training throughout their lives. You can then indulge them without worrying about spoiling them.
Ask about personality
If you are adopting a dog from a rescue organisation, make sure to give them as much information about your home environment.
This will ensure that the dog you adopt is one that suits your home and lifestyle. A patient and affectionate dog would be best for a home with children whereas a high-energy dog is more suited for an active couple.
Accept the routine
Dogs and children bring routines to your life that are not entirely your own choice. Your pet dog will need to be walked regularly, rain or shine, to expend pent-up energy. The exercise will keep your pet healthy both physically and mentally.
Many pet owners enjoy taking their dogs on walks as it becomes an enjoyable way for them to maintain their own physical health.
You will find that you will also have to incorporate some time for your dog over the weekend – to go to the park and interact with other dogs or to be bathed and groomed.
The vet will also become a regular stop on your schedule. It will take up time and cost a fair bit too but a healthy dog is a happy dog which will ultimately make you a happier person too.
Crate training
Crate training is important as this will help keep your pet calm while they are being transported to the vet, the park or the groomers. But, even naturally calm dogs should not be left crated for too long.
Place the crate in a comfortable area – preferably by a window – and leave a small bowl of dog treats in it. This will make them less skittish in the crate and adapt to it more easily. That way, even if you have to lock them in it for a short while, they will not get upset or scared.
Do the research
Find out what you can about leash laws and licence requirements for dog ownership in your area. If you live in a condominium, enquire about the management’s policy on pets. If you live in landed property, are signatures required from neighbours consenting to you owning a dog?
Ensure that you know the level of freedom and space you can offer your dog, especially if you live in a small house or an apartment.
The best way to prepare for pet ownership is to foster dogs. This way you will experience first-hand, the care a pet requires without feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility of making that final commitment. It will also help you to get to know different dog personalities, making it easier for you to pick the right one when you’re ready.