So, you’re thinking of getting a puppy for the first time. Well, that’s an adventure countless people around the world embark on each year, but there’s definitely more than meets the eye if you’re considering that it’s finally time to bring home a new best friend.
Welcoming a new dog, especially a puppy, into your home is an incredibly exciting occasion. But the experience also comes with an incredible amount of responsibility. From early socialization and early morning potty times to training classes and puppy-proofing the home (not to mention the increased expenses), it’s important to be prepared for your new roommate in every way possible.
Here’s a look at five things to consider before bringing home your new best friend, and how to make the transition go as smoothly as possible:
By far, the most important thing to cross off the list when getting your first puppy is to make sure you have found a reputable breeder.
In a world where there are many homeless dogs in animal shelters due to uneducated breeders and irresponsible pet owners, it is imperative to get a puppy from an individual who is dedicated to the welfare of their dogs. Responsible breeders carefully select the pairs they choose to produce puppies and they test their dogs for health disorders that are known to exist within the breed. Because of this testing and the care that has gone into ensuring a safe and healthy breeding and delivery, it is important to note that with this level of care comes a pricier puppy than its backyard-bred counterparts.
Ethical breeders typically participate in some type of dog sport, whether it be dog shows or an activity that’s more performance-based—or both. Participation continuously shows that the breeder’s dogs have merit. A responsible breeder will also provide you with a copy of the pedigree of your dog, and typically, a “puppy pack” that includes any contracts, up-to–date medical records, and other useful information on your puppy’s family and its breed.
Your new puppy’s breeder is also likely to want to stay in touch with you throughout the course of your dog’s life, and be willing to take the dog back into their home should you no longer be able to keep it.
You’ve probably heard the saying that bringing home a new puppy is just as difficult as having a baby, if not even harder. This comparison very much rings true for anyone who has ever owned a dog—especially those who have brought home a young and precocious puppy.
Prior to the arrival of your new best friend, make sure cabinets are secured, medications are put away, toilet lids are closed (as well as windows and doors), and trash cans are sealed or put away. Small items that the puppy can swallow need to be stored safely, and electrical cords that could cause harm need to be out of reach while the puppy is teething.
Paying thousands of dollars for a well-bred dog may seem like a big expense to swallow, but the purchase price will not be a new puppy owner’s biggest monetary investment.
According to AKC’s website, new puppy owners should be prepared to spend approximately $1,397 during Fido’s “rookie year” as a member of the household.
The cost of toys, food, grooming supplies, training or grooming appointments, and veterinary care that provides preventative medications like flea and tick prevention and heartworm pills are just some of the things that need to be considered before making the commitment to welcome a new pup into your home.
Take some time to look over your rental agreement in-depth before purchasing a puppy. Make sure the landlord allows pets and that you understand how to register the new puppy to your home. It’s important to be sure that you are legally in the clear before bringing home your new best friend.
Also, check for any breed restrictions that may be in place. And, if you are considering a “restricted breed,” contact your landlord or property manager beforehand to see if an exception can be made. Some landlords are willing to do a “pet interview” or will explore other avenues that may allow your individual puppy to be accepted as a member of the community.
From the time you sign the papers and submit your payment, your dog is your responsibility and will be fully relying on you for its safety and shelter.
Many people love the idea of bringing home a furry, four-legged best friend, especially during the holiday season. Unfortunately, some folks don’t give a great deal of thought to the responsibilities that come with it. For some, especially young people who may be getting their first dog shortly after moving away from home, it can be easy to forget just how dependent dogs are—and how long they live. And it’s impossible for anyone to predict just how many life changes a person may go through during the span of that dog’s life.
Remember, even breeds with the shortest of lifespans tend to live at least eight years; and some dogs can live as long as 18-20 years. Be sure that the life path you want to take for that length of time is something you envision sharing with a new canine companion—your doggy best friend.
