So, you’re about to bring a dog home for the first time? Awesome! Having a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences, but there’s also a lot of responsibility that comes with it. When I got my first dog, I was both super excited and a little nervous because I knew how much care they needed. But, trust me, with a little guidance and a lot of love, you’ll do just fine.
Here are a few things I wish I knew before getting my first pup, and hopefully, they’ll help you get started on the right paw.
1. Choosing the Right Dog
Before anything else, think about your lifestyle. Are you super active, always on the go, or are you more laid-back? Different breeds come with different energy levels. I’ve always loved being outdoors, so a higher-energy dog, like a Labrador, was a good fit for me. But if you’re someone who spends more time indoors or lives in an apartment, a smaller or less energetic breed like a Frenchie or a Shih Tzu might be better for you.
Think about what kind of time you’ll realistically be able to spend exercising and interacting with your dog. That’ll help guide you toward the right breed or mix.
2. Home Prep
This one’s easy to overlook. Dogs (especially puppies) are curious, and they’ll explore everything.
Before my dog came home, I didn’t think about half the stuff he would try to get into. I ended up putting away shoes, electrical cords, and even some furniture to keep him from chewing. Set up a cozy spot where they can feel safe—a little corner with a dog bed or even a crate works well for giving them a place to settle in.
Also, stock up on the basics before they come home. You’ll want food, water bowls, a leash, collar, and a couple of toys to get started.
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3. Diet Matters
Feeding your dog isn’t just about buying a bag of kibble and calling it a day. You want to make sure you’re feeding them the right kind of food for their breed, size, and age.
I remember feeling overwhelmed the first time I walked down the pet food aisle because there were so many options. What I learned? Puppies need more calories to support their growth, while adult dogs have different needs—talk to your vet if you’re not sure what to get.
Also, resist the temptation to give them table scraps. I know it’s hard, but some human foods can be toxic to dogs (chocolate, grapes, onions—just to name a few).
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4. Exercise = Happy Dog
All dogs need exercise, but how much depends on the breed. My lab needs a ton of it—if he doesn’t get enough running or playing, he’ll start tearing up the house. But for some breeds, a few short walks a day might be enough.
Mental health is important, too. I found that interactive toys and games really helped keep my dog’s mind sharp. Plus, a tired dog (both physically and mentally) is a well-behaved dog!
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5. Start Training Early
This is probably one of the best pieces of advice I can give. As soon as your dog comes home, start training them. Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” make life so much easier, and trust me, positive reinforcement works wonders. I used treats and praise to reward good behavior, and it really helped build a bond between us.
Don’t forget about socialization. The more your dog experiences—different places, people, and other dogs—the more confident they’ll be. It’s important to do this early on, especially with puppies.
6. Grooming and Maintenance
Even if you don’t have a dog with a fancy coat, grooming is still important. Brushing their fur regularly helps reduce shedding and keeps their coat healthy. Bathing is important, too, but don’t overdo it. Dogs don’t need baths as often as you might think; too much can dry out their skin.
And here’s something I didn’t think about until I had a dog: brushing their teeth! Yep, dogs need dental care, too. There are special toothbrushes and toothpaste for dogs that make this easier (and they actually taste good to them).
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7. Regular Vet Visits
Your vet is going to be your best friend when it comes to keeping your dog healthy. When my pup was little, the vet gave him his vaccines and set him up with flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. They also helped me figure out when to get him neutered, which turned out to be a great decision for his health and behavior.
Regular vet check-ups are key. Even when your dog seems healthy, routine visits can catch things early before they become big issues.
8. Learn Their Body Language
Dogs have their own way of telling you how they feel, and learning to understand that will make a huge difference. At first, I didn’t always get it, but after a while, I started to pick up on things. For example, a wagging tail doesn’t always mean your dog is happy—it can mean they’re excited or nervous, too.
Other signs to look out for:
- Relaxed body and eyes: Your dog is feeling calm and happy.
- Tail between legs, ears back: They’re scared or anxious.
- Growling or showing teeth: They feel threatened and are telling you they need space.
The more time you spend with your dog, the better you’ll get at understanding what they’re trying to tell you.
9. Set a Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, and they do best when they have a set routine. Feeding, bathroom breaks, and walks should happen around the same time each day. It not only helps them feel more secure but also makes training easier. Once your dog knows when to expect things, they’ll be more relaxed and well-behaved.
Consistency is key when it comes to rules, too. If you don’t want your dog jumping on the furniture, set that boundary early and stick to it.
10. Patience and Love Are Everything
The last thing I’ll say is that having a dog takes patience. There will be moments of frustration—maybe they’ll chew something they shouldn’t or have accidents in the house—but that’s all part of the process. The more time you spend training and showing them love, the stronger your bond will be.
In the end, dogs give back so much more than they take. The loyalty, companionship, and pure joy they bring into your life make all the hard work worth it.
So, there you have it! Bringing a dog into your home for the first time can be challenging, but it’s also one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. With a little patience, some good training, and a whole lot of love, you and your new dog will be a perfect match.
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