Wednesday, July 16, 2014

A Newbie's Guide To Getting A Dog

They say that a dog is a man’s best friend. Having had many dogs throughout my life, I can confirm that is true. Dogs offer companionship and can bring a lot of joy and happiness into your life. Puppies are cute and adorable, and as they grow into adult dogs, they become loyal and affectionate friends.

Are you thinking of getting a canine companion in your life soon? If you have never owned a dog before, there are a few things that you should know before you get one. This handy guide will help you to prepare for having a dog in your life.



Breed

One of the questions you will need to ask yourself is what breed of dog should you buy. There are thousands of breeds in the world, each with certain qualities or traits. Because getting a dog is a lifestyle choice, you need to choose a dog that will fit in with your lifestyle.

If you enjoy going out for long walks each day, an active dog like a Border Collie might be for you. Greyhounds have a sedentary lifestyle, believe it or not. They spend most of their time sleeping and have little stamina. That is despite the fact they can run up to 45 mph!

Some people prefer small dogs. Examples include the Bichon Frisé, Yorkshire Terrier and the French Bulldog. Others might prefer something more unusual, such as a Dachshund or Pharaoh Hound.

Rescue dogs

It’s no secret that there are millions of homeless hounds in the world that would love to be in a forever home.

Rescue dogs were often neglected by their previous owners. Some might even be “retired,” such as greyhounds. You should bear in mind that rescue dogs might have behavioural problems. That means you will need to be willing to help rehabilitate them.

There is no magic five-minute cure for dogs that have such problems. But if you are willing to put the time and effort in, your efforts will not go in vain. Organisations such as the RSPCA may ask you for a donation if you adopt a rescue dog.

Suitability


When you get a new dog, you have to be sure that both you and the dog will get on fine with each other. If a dog isn’t used to being in a home full of people or children, for example, it can get anxious.

Food

It is important that you buy the right food for your dog. There are many products available for all breeds and ages of dog on the WuffitMix website. If you adopt a greyhound, for example, you need to make sure their food doesn’t contain more than 21% protein.

As far as treats go, all dogs like having the occasional treat now and then! Owners can give their dogs treats as a reward for good behavior or during training.

Bones are a great treat for dogs, because it occupies their mind, and the bones help to keep their teeth clean.

Thanks for reading, and good luck with your new dog! You won’t regret your decision to get one!

3 comments:

Dhemz said...

I couldn't agree more...likewise, I grew up with lots of dogs in the house and in the farm...and they're like best guards ever...lol!

Unknown said...

helpful tips esp for those planning to have pet dog..

Ria C said...

I agree with your tips sis, 101%. I too, have lived my whole life having dogs as pets. I've had dogs from being a pup to their ripe old age and the whole cycle repeats itself.

One should also be emotionally prepared to commit to a dog or any pet for that matter because they are also another life form that we should be responsible for. The benefits of having a dog outweighs the disadvantages. I cannot think of any negative aspect of having a dog. For me and my family, dogs bring so much happiness, love and loyalty to our home that you normally don't get from humans. Facts of life. :)