Getting a dog is one of the biggest commitments you can make. Even if you’ve been one of those people who’s desperately wanted a little canine buddy since childhood, the truth is that it will probably be a lot more work than you’re expecting, especially if you’ve never owned a pet before. Luckily there are a few things you can to do ensure that you create a wonderful home for your pup and that you build a close and loving relationship with it (hereafter referred to as ‘him’ because there’s no one in the world with a heart and soul who calls their dog ‘it’).
Make Sure You Create A Safe Environment For Him
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First of all, make sure that you’ve created a safe environment for your new pup at home. Think about it in terms of baby proofing – put away any toxic chemicals and ensure that they’re in places that he can’t reach. Research foods and substances that are toxic to dogs that you might not know about, like avocados and chocolate, and make sure that you keep them well away from your dog. Check out your back yard and make sure there’s no way that he could escape from it – your fences should be high so that he can’t jump over them, and should go deep underground so that he can’t burrow out either.
Take Him To Obedience Classes
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One of the best ways to keep your pup safe is to make sure that he’s well trained and socialized. That means that not only will he greet people politely but he’ll also behave well around other dogs. You also want to make sure that he walks well so he doesn’t go bolting off into the road. Figuring out how to train your dog can be a laborious process if you’ve never done it before but talking to the professionals about it will definitely help.
Spend Plenty Of Time With Him
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It’s important to make sure that you spend plenty of time with your dog. When you get a pet, you’re essentially making a commitment to taking good care of that pet for the duration of its life, so you need to build a good relationship with your pup. Take him out for walks and make sure that when you spend time petting or grooming him at home, you’re really present – don’t watch TV over his head or check your phone with your other hand. Your dog deserves your full attention.
Adjust Your Expectations
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Finally, remember that every dog has its own personality and if you’re just looking for a polite well behaved dog that will do everything you want it to, you may be waiting for that a long time. To dogs, we are fellow pack animals and you need to remember that you need to impress your dog and demonstrate that you are the leader of your little family pack. Make sure that your dog feels safe and protected in your presence by making sure that you don’t raise your voice in anger or lash out.