Whether or not you have children, you probably consider your pets your babies. Even though they aren’t related to you by flesh and blood, adopting them is one of the best and most memorable moments in your life. Like becoming a parent, caring for a dog can be a huge adjustment. It may take a few months to adapt to your new routine. Adopting a fur baby is a big deal, but you’ll be fine with these ways to make your life easier as a dog parent.
Embrace Training Early
It’s no secret that dogs can be relatively naughty, but you can prevent negative behaviors by embracing training early. If you adopt your fur baby as a puppy, this is the perfect time to start training, as they’re more likely to retain the information. On the other hand, an adult dog may be more set in their ways, but you should still work with them as soon as you bring them home to ensure good behavior.
Although you can train your dog to do many different tricks, house and leash training should be at the top of your list. House training is relatively easy—simply reward them with a treat when they go potty outside and tell them no while putting them outside if they go in the house. On the other hand, leash training may require more strategy. However, you can look at leash training guides to help you stay on top of pulling and other negative habits.
Create and Stick to a Routine
Routines are incredibly important for everyone, including dogs. Although it may take some time for you to adapt to adding them to your daily routine, you should create and stick to a schedule for your pup. This may include feedings, potty breaks, playtime, bedtime, etc. There’s nothing worse than them bothering you when you’re trying to sleep at night. But establishing a bedtime regimen and time will help them adjust.
Pro-Tip
Align their meal times with your own. Feed them before yourself to prevent them from begging for your food.
Set Up Appropriate Play Dates
Socialization is highly important for dogs, as they may become aggressive or afraid of other animals. With that said, you should consider setting up play dates to allow them to interact with another dog in a safe and controlled setting. While they should be familiar with many different breeds and sizes, you should avoid setting up play dates with a small dog if your pup is large and vice versa. This can cause injuries.
Keep Up With Their Grooming
Like yourself, your dog also needs a bath, haircut, dental hygiene maintenance, etc. With that in mind, you should keep up with their grooming to avoid preventable health concerns or discomfort. Typically, you should bathe your dog, clean their ears, and trim their nails at least once each month. On the other hand, you should brush their teeth and their fur at least once a week.
Hopefully, these ways to make your life easier as a dog parent actually help you adjust to life with your pup. Whether or not you’ve had a dog before, you won’t regret incorporating these simple tips into your daily routine.
Emma is a writer and editor passionate about providing accessible, accurate information. Her work is dedicated to helping people of all ages, interests, and professions with useful, relevant content.
