Raising a Dog

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in America, but they also come with their own set of challenges. To make it easier on yourself, there are things you need to know before you decide to take on this responsibility.

Why Raising a Dog is a Good Hobby?

If you are looking for a new hobby, raising a dog is an excellent choice. Whether you already own a dog or are considering getting one, it is important to understand what brings about this excellent opportunity. Here’s why:

Dogs require little maintenance once they are grown

Unlike most other pets like fish or hamsters which need special care and accessories, dogs simply grow to adulthood after only three years. When growing up, they may need time and attention in order to learn the proper habits but once that’s done, you will be free to keep your dog inside your house or outside with little effort on your part! They can sleep in their own bed or even sleep outside without having to worry about caring for them each day.

Dogs are natural problem solvers

A dog can grow up to be quite smart, especially if you give them the attention they need. You may even find that your dog is smarter than you think! They often know exactly what they want and aren’t afraid to beg for it. This makes training them much easier as well because once they feel like doing something, the only thing left to do is figure out how to make it happen.

The unconditional love of a dog cannot be matched

Dogs show their owners nothing but love and support no matter what happens in life. If there’s one thing you’ll never forget after owning a dog before, it should be the look on their face when you come home after being away for a long time. If you’re ever feeling down, you can simply snuggle with your dog and know that everything will be alright!

What to Look For Before Adopting a Dog

From basic training to understanding dog psychology, here are the things you should know before you start!

1) Basic Training: It is not enough just to feed your new pet and clean up after it; dogs require proper care and obedience training as well. A good rule of thumb is that puppies should be trained for at least 30 minutes per day (or about 15 minutes per week). With older dogs who may have already formed bad habits or behavioral issues, more time will be needed–at least 60 minutes each day.

2) Understanding Dog Psychology: Many people don’t realize that dogs are much like humans in that they need mental stimulation to be happy and healthy. Without it, your dog will feel neglected and may become destructive or start barking excessively. For this reason, taking the time to train your pet is essential, as it will keep them from getting bored and help strengthen the bond between you and your best friend.

3) Feeding Time: You should feed your dog at least twice a day–more if its weight requires it. Be mindful of portion sizes so you do not overfeed. It’s also important to note that canned food can cause dental problems for dogs, especially small breeds such as Yorkshire terriers–this type of food can cause tartar buildup and, in turn, tooth loss. Dry food is easier for smaller breeds to eat; it can also help to alleviate the symptoms of bloat. For larger dogs that cannot chew dry food well (or at all), you may want to consult your vet about transitioning them to moist or semi-moist food.

4) Safe Toys: The best toy for your dog will depend on its breed and personality. Kong toys are ideal for smart dogs who like to be challenged; they can be filled with treats or pieces of kibble. However, these special toys should not be given to aggressive dogs because they could use it as a way to bite off pieces (that could cause choking If you have an active dog, you may want to invest in a Chuck-it ball–these balls are great for playing fetch and running around because they can float in water.

5) Provide Exercise: If your dog does not get enough exercise, it could lead to health problems such as obesity or skeletal disorders. Obesity can shorten your pet’s lifespan by up to two years! Just like humans, dogs should be given free time each day where they can run around and burn off energy. It is also important that larger breeds get the proper amount of daily exercise, which includes walks–this keeps their joints healthy and muscles toned.

6) Veterinary Care: Your furry friend will need to visit the vet regularly for checkups, vaccinations, routine testing (such as for heartworms), and more. To protect your pet’s health, it is recommended that they visit the vet at least once a year. Be sure to work with your veterinarian on a schedule that will keep your dog as healthy as possible!

7) Provide Companionship: Dogs are pack animals by nature; they like to be around the people who care for them. If you’re not home for extended periods of time, consider having someone come in and let your pet out or take it on walks. This will make your furry friend feel more secure and relaxed while you’re not there for them.

8) Be Consistent: Like training, feeding, and vet visits, getting a routine down makes it easier for both you AND your pet. When your pets know what to expect in their day, they will be happier and will look forward to seeing you when you get home instead of cowering in fear or aggression. Consistency is key in training any pet, but it’s especially important with dogs!

9) Teach Them Tricks: Dogs are highly intelligent creatures; this makes them perfect for learning new tricks. Start out simple–such as teaching your dog to sit on command–and once they have mastered that level of training, move up to more complex ones like roll over, speak/beg, play dead, etc. Keeping your dog happy and entertained is made much easier by teaching him or her skills that can provide mental stimulation and physical exercise!

10) Patience: Dogs require a lot of patience, and this is one of the most important things you need to remember when training them. It can take multiple tries for your dog to catch on – don’t get angry or frustrated! This will only make it harder for both you and your pet. Training requires dedication and knowing what works best (positive reinforcement, time outs, etc.)–patience plays a large part in how well your dog does with its training!

Conclusion

If you truly want a dog, make sure the time commitment is something you can handle. Save yourself from heartache and frustration by knowing what to expect before you decide if a canine companion is right for you!