Getting a dog, they say. That fluffy friend of us indeed brings happiness and excitement to our lives. Their puppy eyes will keep reminding us about how cheerful and bright everything can be. And the way they wait for us at the door shows us how loyal they are when everyone else leaves us. Dogs are indeed man’s best friend.
However, for the first-timers, keeping a pet dog can be troublesome if they get the wrong expectation. You cannot just bring a new pet dog to your house and believe everything is going to be okay. There are some factors to consider and some things to prepare first.
Noises
The first thing you must anticipate is your dog’s bark. When a dog gets into a new environment, it will need some time to adjust before it can feel comfortable. And during that adjustment period, the dog can feel agitated and upset by small things.
You should not apply your reasoning to the dog’s unexplained behavior. The dog may bark when you open the bathroom’s door. It may also grunt and show its fangs when you turn out a vacuum cleaner. Your dog will bark and cause noises that may disturb your neighbors.
First, it will be better if you consult a friend who is experienced at handling dogs and make him/her your mentor. Dogs are highly trainable, but it depends on the owner. A dog who disregards his/her owner as their leader will often disobey the owner’s commands.
Active Lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle is unfit for dogs. If you do not like to take a walk, then you should be better to change your mind. Dogs need an active lifestyle. Otherwise, they can get depressed and aggressive toward new people and other dogs.
Owning a dog requires a firm commitment to living actively. Get yourself a dog harness for running, and go outside every evening after you come home from your work. A walk in the park in every two or three days is enough for the dogs not to feel bored and unhappy.
Flea/Tick Infestation
If you want your dog to be free from parasites, you should bathe him/her regularly. If you allow him/her to go outside freely, then they cannot be 100 percent flea-free. What is worse about dog’s parasites is that they can breed an infestation throughout the house. You will find yourself sleeping on a bed full of ticks and fleas.
Therefore, when you want to bring a dog in, you should be ready to vacuum clean your house more frequently than before. Occasional fogging is sometimes necessary because flea/tick infestation can be inevitable. You must not be mad at your dog when such misfortune happens because it is beyond their will. Besides, dogs are animals who do not have conscience and thoughts. You are the one to blame for your slovenly lifestyle if your house turns out to be infested with dog parasites.