Things to know before adopting a dog

Adopting a pet is one of the most exciting activities a person can do. But adopting and taking care of a dog is no walk in the park. Well, actually, it is, but it’s a walk in the park every day, twice a day. A big responsibility – that’s what we’re trying to say.

This blog explains everything you need to know before making the decision of whether you should adopt a dog. Stay with us.

Spending Time 

The first thing you need to know before adopting a dog is that they require time out of your day. Canines are social animals, and we are their best pals! Even though that doesn’t mean that you have to be with your pet all the time, you still need to organize your time and schedule around their needs, including two daily walks, regular feeding, playtime, and any occasional grooming.

Young puppies are especially needy, so if you do decide to go for a cute little furry friend, also consider training and dog socializing as part of your responsibilities. 

Your free time will most definitely change. This includes vacations or weekends away, where you either take your dog with you or find a dog caretaker or a boarding facility with great ratings.  

The same might apply to a simple night out with friends. If you live alone, your dog will be left completely alone for the whole day during your work hours and for the whole night during your night outs. 

Pets really are a responsibility, so you need to know your ability to tend to their needs before deciding you want to brighten your life with a furry friend. 

Costs and Expenses

The next thing you need to be aware and knowledgeable about is the expenses and the monthly costs you’ll have for caring for a dog. First of all, there are the adoption fees. If you do decide to adopt, that is. If you want to go for a showroom purebred, you’ll need much more. 

Next on the list are spays or neuters, vaccinations, dog accessories, dog food, annual vet visits, and medication. These are just some of the expenses. Dogs are individuals just like we are, so they might have some special requirements like frequent grooming or chronic medical conditions that require medical supervision. 

In the end, there are a few more expenses that you might not even think about before adopting a dog. They might include special cleaning products, protective car liners, crates, and dog clothes. To learn more about the importance of dog clothing, head over to our blog about the importance of winter dog clothes. 

Giving Attention and Entertainment

The third aspect to consider before adopting a dog is the importance of attention and entertainment. 

Each dog is different, and you would have to train your dog if you want it to comply with your rules. Otherwise, you’ll have to comply with theirs, and you might need a new carpet each month as a result. Your dog will require your attention, first to gain basic training and then to reinforce said training indefinitely. 

Dogs also need grooming and taking care of their health. For example, some dogs with thick, long hair might need a lot of brushing, while others have long nails that need trimming almost weekly. This, too, requires attention and dedication. 

Another aspect is entertainment. Don’t believe that your dog will be happy with just their food and a small squeaky toy. They would need your time and affection each day. Some days, you would just love to chase each other around the room or play fetch, while other days, you might find it nicer to lay under a warm blanket and have a nice treat. Either way, your dog will want to feel included. 

Healthy Food and Feeding Schedule 

The last important aspect that needs consideration before actually adopting a dog is the topic of healthy food and correct feeding schedules. Simply because this aspect is broadly discussed doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the easiest to do. On the contrary, with all the contradictory information out there, you need to make a really educated decision. 

Giving your dog healthy, organic food is the first and biggest indicator of their longevity. 

If you want to ensure you’re going for the best treats, we recommend our Himalayan dog chews. They come in different shapes, sizes, and thicknesses, making sure that there is something for everybody. 

If you want to solve two problems at once, we have the Dental Sticks for Dogs, which are a great way to give your dog something to chew on while keeping their dental health in place. 

In Conclusion 

Taking care of a dog is a wonderful yet demanding responsibility. With time, expenses, attention, entertainment, and food in mind, you can decide whether a dog is the right kind of pet for you at the moment. 

To relieve your mind from thinking about entertainment and healthy food snacks, we are offering our organic, all-natural dog chewing sticks. They can help you decrease some of the responsibilities – entertainment and fun, health, dental hygiene, and a good diet.

And because you’ve come on this blog, it seems you’re close to a decision. So, we wish you the best of luck and a wonderful time with your chosen furry friend.