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Having a Dog in Your Life: The Dos and Don'ts
Having a dog in your life is one of the most rewarding things there is. The unconditional love you will receive will brighten the darkest days and make the bright days even more enjoyable. As you prepare to bring your new puppy home, keep in mind these basic thoughts about having a dog as part of your family.
- Puppy needs to learn his name. Teaching puppy his name is important so he can respond to basic commands. Be sure that you get a tag for your dog with his name on it.
- Puppy needs regular vet visits. Just like babies, puppies need regular doctor visits. Spay or neuter your pet and visit the vet for yearly vaccinations and check- ups.
- Puppy needs to be exposed to the world. While your puppy is still young, expose him to many new situations. Take him for walks around the neighborhood and to parks, both human and dog parks. Teach him to socialize with other dogs and people. Socializing your puppy will help him to be calm and open to meeting new people.
- Puppy needs to learn to wear a leash. Teaching your puppy to walk on a leash is very important. Your puppy needs exercise and walks are a great way to get some. Teach your puppy to walk by your side and not pull you along. This is important so that he knows you are in charge.
- Puppy needs to learn basic commands. Teach your puppy basic commands like "sit" and "lie down". Your dog needs to know how to respond to your commands. These two simple commands will help him to respond well in many situations. Be sure to praise your dog often, positive reinforcement is a great teaching tool.
- Puppy needs to be groomed and loved. Spend time each day with your puppy bonding. One of the best ways to do this is to groom him. Brushing is beneficial to his health and is a great way to bond. Play with him, talk to him and generally show him that he is important to you and the family. Remember dogs are most comfortable in a pack and your family is his new pack.
- Don't let puppy run wild. In your fenced backyard an unleashed run is fine, but don't let your puppy run wild outside. It is not safe for him or for the people he will encounter.
- Be careful with puppy in the car. Don't let your dog ride in the open back of a truck or hang his head out the window of the car. It simply isn't safe. Never leave your dog in a hot car even with the windows down.
- Be careful with basic household items. Many household items are dangerous for dogs. Take special care with carpet cleaners to be sure they are pet safe. Keep chocolate out of reach as it is toxic to dogs. Don't use over the counter medicines to treat your pet. Some plants are poisonous, so be careful with what you keep around the house.
- Keep training positive. When training your puppy, don't hit or yell at your dog. This will not make training easier. Don't leave your dog chained in the back yard or locked in a cage. Use the choker chain only for training purposes, not for everyday use.
