A Simple Guide For First Time Dog Owners
So, you have decided to finally get your own pup. First and foremost, congratulations for realising that dogs make some of the best companions. Second, you have come to the right place for information on getting a dog for the first time. With this information and the right training, your new pup will become a member of your household in no time. If you’re a first-time dog owner looking for guidance on maintaining your pet’s health, it’s essential to be aware of specific dietary considerations, such as a suitable dog pancreatitis diet.
We have a lot of useful information, including how to tell the best breed for you and your loved ones, where to source your dog or puppy from, why exercise and socialisation are essential and even tips on choosing the right name. However, in this post, we will focus on things you need to do before you purchase or adopt the pup, as well as, picking the right dog training class.
Alternatively, if you are a cat owner and live in Southampton search cat sitter Southampton.
A Checklist For Your Pup
Before you bring your new friend home, ensure you get the following items:
-Food bowl
-Comfy bed
-Water bowl
-Toys for playing
-Toys for teething if you are getting a puppy
-Toys for keeping them amused or calm
-Crate
-A lead. This is essential as you will be walking your dog almost on a daily basis
-A harness. It’s advisable to connect your pups lead to a harness to prevent feeling pressure around the neck when they pull. Ensure you pick a harness that allows the pet to run and walk naturally, and doesn’t restrict their movement.
-A tag or buckle collar with your information in it. This is actually a legal requirement for dogs in the UK.
Tips For Choosing a Dog Training Class
One great and easy way to build and nurture a healthy relationship with your new pup is by taking it to a professional dog training class. If possible, it is advisable that you go along to a class instead of just training at home. That’s because the training specialist will give you tips and tricks to help you train your pup in an effective manner. Chances are they will provide information that you otherwise never have thought about.
Before you sign up for a dog training class, it is advisable to attend one without taking your pet in order to get a feel of the environment. An ideal dog training class will feature the following:
-A friendly trainer who helps both dogs and their owners in a positive attitude.
-A calm environment without overly hyper dogs and extreme barking. These are good indicators of stress and thus poor dog training. Both the dogs and their owners should be in a relaxed state.
-The trainers do not allow the dogs to play uncontrollably.
-The trainers should be able to handle the number of pups in the facility
-The training methods should be reward-based and positive. Steer clear of facilities where pups are punished or items like electric collars or chokes are used.
It is important to note that dog training classes are not regulated in the UK, and so, just how good a facility is tends to vary. We recommend signing up for a class where the specialists utilise modern science training techniques. These methods focus on rewarding dogs using praise, play and food for doing good rather than punishment for misbehaving. Pups are more likely to repeat good behaviour when you show them they have done well. Positive training is the best way to build a relationship that’s based on trust and confidence.
Avoid dog trainers who utilise aversive training items like chokes or harsh techniques like pulling them into another position or physically forcing the dog to sit. Dogs tend to find these methods stressful, and if they cause pain, they are bound to react in a non-friendly way.
Passionate Writer, Blogger and Amazon Affiliate Expert since 2014.
