Tips On Getting Your Family A Dog For Christmas
With Christmas right around the corner, you are likely in a giving mood. Now, if your partner or children are dog lovers, you may have decided to get them a furry friend. While this is a super exciting gift, you need to make sure your household is fully prepared for an additional family member. Here are a few of our tips on welcoming a new dog.
Make Sure Your Household Is Ready for a Pet
Even if everyone in your family is clamoring for a canine companion, you need to make sure your entire household understands dogs are not just fun and games. If you have children let them know what having a furry friend entails.
Dog Proof Your House
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A fun fact about dogs is they are mischievous little creatures who like to get into everything and anything. For this reason, it’s probably not in your best interest to allow your pooch to have free range when you are away from your domain. To keep your doggo confined to a safe, hazard-free space consider purchasing a dog gate.
It’s also worth noting that dogs view the garage bin as a treasure trove full of tasty treats. What they don’t understand is that your trash may be full of hazardous materials or even just food items, like sugar-free gum, that can be fatal. So that your pup doesn’t accidentally poison himself, consider purchasing a dog-proof trash can with a heavy lid.
Gather All the Necessary Supplies
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Before you get a furry friend, you need to have all the necessary supplies. We recommend buying chew toys, a harness and leash, dog food, dog bowls, a crate, bedding, and biodegradable waste bags.
Make Sure Your Dog Is Introduced in a Calm Manner
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While getting a dog is a super exciting time, you don’t want to overwhelm your new furry friend. This is especially true if the pooch is a rescue, as they can be skittish. For this reason, everyone in your family should be calm when they first meet the pup.
If you have children, remind them that dogs must be handled with great care. Before you bring home a pup, use a stuffed animal to practice gentle petting. Also, it’s best to instruct your child to avoid touching a dog’s face, as that can decrease the likelihood of getting bitten.
Once they meet their new furry friend, make sure they do not make any sudden movements. Instead, instruct your child to put the back of their hand close to the dog’s nose. If your dog seems receptive, your child can gently stroke your dog’s neck.