Planning For Your Family’s First Dog

by Bonnie Meyer

If there will be some change going to happen in your life, whether big or small, you are not the only one to get affected but also your family. That is why in every decision you make, always consider to consult them first.

Having a dog is surely a big responsibility and will bring a lot of changes in your home. For that matter, it is important to have some preparations to do before hand. So while you are waiting for the time to have your first dog in your home, here the things you should be ready for:

1. Ready Your Home

When your new dog comes, it will surely be unpredictable around your house. Even if you have plans to train them, you do not know how they will be when they on first days. Because of that, you will have to set up your house. You need to know what the restricted areas will be and make some obstacles to those. You should also keep away objects that they will ruin such as shoes, clothes, electrical cords, etc. This also means you have to secure things that will be harmful to them such as chemicals and plants.

2. Ready Your Supplies

Your dog will sure need a lot for them. From their basic needs such as food, water, and crate, you will also need something for their training, so better prepare some treats for that. Then there is also the toys they will play with especially for puppies who are teething. Those will help them to pay attention to and not to other objects around your house. You will also need other miscellaneous stuff for your pet such as collar and leash and some other toys you can play with them.

3. Ready For Needs

There will be other needs that will be more for emergency purposes. One of this is a veterinarian. You will need them in case your dog gets sick. You also need to be in contact with them regarding vaccinations and vitamins. Another is about their training. It is mentioned earlier that you would need some supplies, but other considerations will be your time. Are you willing to do it yourself or need a professional trainer? No matter what, keep in mind that you are supposed to be their boss, and you should be the one, or any members of your family, to be followed.

4. Ready For Change

As mentioned earlier, a dog is a responsibility. Sure, they will bring you happiness and will be part of your family. But like any other change, there will need to be adjustments. First is, especially for your kids, teaching them about responsibilities such as feeding and walking them. You should also set some rules about it like limitations of giving them treats and what places would be off-limits. Another is about safety for both. You should teach and explain them what will be harmful to the dogs and what to avoid, so that neither them will get hurt.