Choosing to get a dog is a big decision. They become a part of your family and need to be taken care of like a real member of the family. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about owning a dog, from picking the perfect one for your lifestyle, to taking care of them once they’re home. So, whether you’re a first-time dog owner or just looking for some refreshers, read on for all the info you need.
Why get a dog?
People used to be put off from owning a dog for various reasons, often because they didn’t have the space or were away from home a lot of the time. Yet, nowadays, you can get pet boarding in Arizona, Arkansas, or anywhere else in the country, for that matter. It really is so simple.
It’s best to write down why you want a dog and what you expect from them before going to pick one out. This will help determine the breed of dog that’ll suit your lifestyle. You may be surprised to learn that there are breed-specific rescue organizations that focus on finding homes for those breeds that many people consider ‘hard work’ and therefore won’t want. If you want a dog for practical reasons like walking and having a guard dog, it may be worth checking out these local rescues first to see if they have the breed of pup that you’re looking for.
Feeding
Dogs need to be fed well but in moderate amounts. It’s easy to overfeed your dog if you give them too many treats, so make sure you only give them a few and make them count.
If they get overweight, it’ll put a strain on their joints and cause health problems later in life like heart disease and breathing difficulties.
We recommend feeding your dog food made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Dog food comes in varying formats. You can choose to feed your pet canned food which often comes in a sauce or jelly, dry or semi-moist kibble, which has added vitamins and minerals, or home-cooked food like meat, rice, and vegetables.
As your dog gets older, they may have trouble digesting some of these ingredients and you might need to switch to a food that’s easier for their digestive system to process. Always speak to your vet if you have any concerns.
Sleeping
Dogs need a place to sleep, and it’s best if they have their own bed. You can buy beds that are raised off the ground and heated ones, but a simple old towel or blanket will do. Some people like to put their dog’s bed in their bedroom so they can keep an eye on them during the night.
Exercise
All dogs need exercise, even small breeds. A good rule of thumb is at least one hour per day, but it really depends on the size and breed of your dog, as a larger dog might need more stimulation than this. Make sure you pick a breed that suits your lifestyle.