4 Things You Need To Know As A New Dog Owner

Congratulations on being a new dog owner! Not sure what to do after getting your furry friend? No worries, we’ve got the next steps covered so that your little one will be safe and healthy. 

Being a pet owner is a wonderful experience: full of snuggles, unconditional love, little puppy eyes, and long walks together. However, it can also be stressful at times to be a dog owners, especially for those that are new. A few steps will ensure that the stories you tell your friends and family about your dog will be full of loving and heart-warming moments, and not ones filled with despair. 

Here are some steps you should take as a new dog owner:

1. Get them vaccinated.
2. Get them ID’d.
3. Take out insurance
4. Start training.

     1. Get Them Vaccinated!

Just like humans, dogs can get viruses and other illnesses as well. And there’s a lot of vaccines that they need, including vaccines for Distemper, Hepatitis, and Bordetella. For the full list of recommended vaccines that your dog should get, visit the RSPCA or Greencross. 

And make sure to keep your dog’s vaccines up to date as well. Core vaccines are required every one to three years. Look at your dog’s medical records to know when your dog is due to have their next vaccine shot. A lot of vet clinics will also send you automatic reminders as well.

     2. Get Your Dog ID’d

Dogs are curious creatures, which means they’ll occasionally go off on their own to explore the neighbourhood. When they do go missing, proper ID can ensure that your dog will be returned to you in no time.

So make sure you have your dog microchipped and has a tag on its collar. The tag should display your name and your contact number clearly. That way, when your dog inevitably escapes because you forgot to close the dog or they’ve dug a hole underneath the fence, you will be notified about your dog’s whereabouts immediately. 

      3. Insure Your Babies!

Accidents and injuries can happen anytime, anywhere. In these stressful times, you want to focus on getting the best care for your dog, not whether you’ll be able to afford the treatment or not. Pet bills can be expensive, so it’s good to know that you’ll be able to afford the care that your dog needs when accidents do happen. 

Just like any other insurance, it’s better to have it and not need it, rather than need it and not have it. But just make sure you’re choosing the plan that’s right for your dog. 

Additionally, pet insurance can also be used to reimburse claims like de-sexing, teeth cleaning, and vaccinations. Check with your insurance provider to find out what you are and are not covered for. 

     4. Get Started On The Training

It is simultaneously easier and harder to train your puppy when they’re younger. Because they’re young, they learn more quickly. Furthermore, they don’t have to unlearn previously learned negative behaviours that older dogs have

However, because they’re young, they have shorter attention spans compared to older dogs. They’re also more likely to be distracted as well. 

However, it’s better to get them started when they’re still young as you get to reap the benefits for a longer time. The best time to start your puppy’s training is when they’re around eight weeks old. 

Positive behaviours and tricks need to be taught quickly and consistently to instil obedience effectively. Make sure to use plenty of treats and positive reinforcement when you’re training your puppy. 

If you’re unsure of what commands to teach your dog, basic commands like ‘sit’, ‘stay’, and ‘come’ are all very useful. We’ve also compiled a list of commands that you should teach your dog here.

But just keep one thing in mind – your new dog will also be your best friend for a long time. As a dog owner, if you treat them with love and care, you’ll be rewarded with a bundle of joy, cuddles, and unconditional love.