Do you have that one friend that brings their kid over and your house becomes a complete battle ground? Food everywhere, potty accidents, messes around every corner, crying and whining: does this sound familiar? If this is the sort of excitement sends your into a panic, you may want to decide against getting a puppy. On the other hand, if you can laugh off the little things and see that it is all a learning process, then we can consider you a prospective puppy parent.
To be a proper puppy owner you have to take time to consider what will be needed of you to do the job. This list will help so take the time to read through, educate yourself, and become familiar with what will be required of you.
Getting Prepared for your Puppy
1. Puppies use the bathroom as much as a newborn child and just as freely. You have to be willing to take your puppy to relieve itself on a regular schedule. Decide on a designated “potty zone” and return to this zone every time. Your new puppy is going to look to you for potty breaks so routine is important. Accidents can and will happen. Stock up on paper towels and cleaner. You will need it.
2. First shots, monthly medication, annual visits, and emergency care: You have to know which veterinarian you will have your pooch visit. You can tell someone when you are not well. An animal relies on you to identify poor health signs and take action. Familiarize yourself with the location, get referrals from friends and family, and be prepared for vet bills. Take the time to visit your vet’s office and speak with the personnel and find out what the first visit will entail.
3. That puppy tummy will need food and water. During your pre-puppy visit to the vet, speak with them about food and treats that they carry. You do not have to purchase food and treats from your vet. At the very least ask about your options and possible choices that they may carry or what recommendations they can provide from local retailers.
4. Your cute puppy will surely love to cuddle with you on the furniture and sleep with you at night. As a responsible puppy owner, this is not acceptable. You have to set boundaries and your puppy will appreciate having his or her own space. Crate training is recommended. Depending on the size of puppy you are bringing home, crate prices can range from as low as $25 to as high as $200+.
5. Educate yourself. You should know what breed of dog you and your family are best suited. Not the other way around. A high-energy dog is not going to change its energy level. It is unlikely that a low-energy, or time-stretched, family will change to suit the pup. You are bringing your puppy into your home and that little fuzz ball can do little to change that decision. Be sure you gain as much knowledge as possible about dogs, breeds of dogs, and the different exercise and activity needs. Knowing what your pooch needs to stay active is like giving yourself ice cream every day.
Are you ready?
Looking into the sweet eyes of a puppy does tug on your heart strings. It does not erase all of the other bodily functions, activity needs, or financial pressures that will come with those sweet eyes. Think before your act and ensure that you are making the best decision for that puppy.