Your Comprehensive Guide to Adopting a Dog

So, you want to adopt a dog. But what in the world comes next? 

The process of adopting a pet can feel complicated if you’ve never done it before. And even if you have, there’s always something to improve upon. That’s why we created a comprehensive guide to adopting a dog. No matter where you are in your pet adoption journey, understanding these steps will help ensure Fido comes home without a hitch.

 

Part 1: Should you adopt?

Before buying any collars or treats, you need to determine whether getting a dog is right for you. Pets can be a major drain on your wallet and freedom, but they can also be your best friends. Before you head to the shelter, research how to choose a dog. That way, you can make an informed choice about adopting a furry friend.

 

Part 2: Establish your rules

Prior to picking up your adopted dog, it’s important to establish some ground rules. Where will your new pup sleep? Will he be crate trained? What will he eat? How will you train him? Where will he go to the bathroom? Getting on the same page as the people who will interact with your new pup is necessary to avoid confusing him.

Just think—if you were a puppy and one human expected you to sleep in your crate while the other wanted you to cuddle up, you’d probably get pretty confused at bedtime. Establishing ground rules with everyone in your household before adopting will help mitigate that confusion.

 

Part 3: Prepare the house

Once you’ve established your rules, it’s time to prepare the house. To do this, it’s helpful to think like a dog. What can a dog reach? What foul-smelling objects may be extra fun for a pooch to chew on? Be sure to dog-proof your home, remembering that dogs know little of ownership. To them, something fun to chew on is simply something fun to chew on.

In addition, prepare for your new dog by purchasing dog bowls, food, and a bed. For details on everything you need to buy, read this new puppy checklist.

 

Part 4: Bring your pooch home

Finally, it’s time to bring the new dog home with you. But before you get there, it’s likely you’ll need to take your pet on a drive.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, dogs should always be properly restrained in cars. Be sure to bring a secure harness or carrier along to keep your pet safe on their first ride home.

Once you arrive, it’s important to get your pet acquainted with their new environment. Take him to his designated potty area as soon as you arrive, waiting until your pup has done his business. In addition, it’s wise to show him to his water, food, and bed. Think of yourself as a host showing around a highly anticipated guest.

 

Part 5: Start training

To increase your pet’s happiness (as well as your own), it’s a good idea to implement a training plan. Decide whether attending classes is right for you or whether you want to train your pup yourself. Whatever you choose, a routine can help you both stick to training. Determine a specific time of day to train, just as you might determine a schedule for walking, feeding, and sleep. Doing so will help both of you stay on track.

 

Part 6: Keep healthy

Both shelter dogs and pet store dogs often require vaccinations after adoption. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to get these vaccinations along with a general check-up. In addition, be sure to get your pet spayed or neutered if they haven’t been already. You just got a new pooch—you probably don’t want five more.

 

—

Following these tips can help prepare you and your new pup for the start of a great relationship. Want more advice for dogs young and old? Check out our blog. And for great deals on treats your pet will love, visit the Best Bully Sticks website.

The post Your Comprehensive Guide to Adopting a Dog appeared first on Best Bully Sticks.