Candid Insights into the First Year of Canine Companionship
When it comes to welcoming a new canine companion, there’s plenty of excitement and joy. However, there are also some unexpected challenges and changes during the first year that take some time to get used to. Here’s a candid insight into the first year of having a dog.
Preparing for Your Canine Companion
When it comes to adopting a new canine companion, there are certain steps that every dog owner should take to ensure that their first year is made easy. Here are three crucial steps to remember when preparing for your new companion.
Research
The first and most important step to preparing for a successful first year is researching before bringing a dog home.
Remember, every breed is different, meaning each breed will require slightly different needs and care requirements. So, researching which breed is right for you is vital to ensuring that you and your dog are a great match.
Get the Essentials
Once you’ve determined the dog you want to adopt, it’s important to start preparing your house with the essentials. No matter the age or breed, every dog will need:
You may also need grooming tools, depending on the breed.
Create and Maintain a Routine
It’s important to remember that dogs thrive on consistency and routine. So, it’s vital that you establish regular feeding, sleeping, playing, and walking times. Implementing a training routine can also help build a strong bond and reinforce good behavior.
Regular vet and grooming visits are also important to incorporate into a weekly or monthly routine for your dog’s health and wellness.
With these steps in place, the first year with your new companion should have fewer bumps in the road. Remember, the first year is full of learning and bonding, so be prepared to work and play hard.
What to Expect with Canine Companions
Even with plenty of preparation, the first year with canine companions can be filled with plenty of challenges and changes. Dog owners should be prepared for:
- Lots of Training: No matter how old the dog is or the breed, your home is a new environment, which means re-learning rules and routines. Be patient and reinforce good behavior with positive rewards to encourage them.
- Plenty of Play and Exercise: Dogs need play and regular exercise. Be ready to engage in plenty of physical activity or mentally stimulating games to keep your dog engaged and healthy.
While it may not all be rainbows and sunshine, remember that your new companion is ready to follow your lead. With patience, love, and preparation, you can support your growing bond.
Learn More with Get Joy
At Get Joy, we’re dedicated to providing dog owners with fresh, high-quality meals and treats and dog care resources. Learn more about elevating your dog’s health and wellness today.
