During the pandemic, the number of people welcoming a new addition to the family rose significantly. And no, we’re not talking about kids! More and more families turned to dog ownership during these difficult times. This means there are lots of people searching for tips for new dog owners, and that’s what we’re here to provide!

Dog Owner Essentials

If you’re a new dog owner, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out everything you need to do to take care of your pup. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From our own experience and from talking to other dog owners, we’ve compiled a list of essential tips for new dog owners that will help you get started on the right paw.

1. Create a routine

One of the most important things you can do as a new owner to make your dog feel comfortable is to get them into a steady routine. Dogs thrive on predictability and knowing what to expect. So, make sure you set a schedule for walking, playing, and potty breaks that will help your pup feel settled and secure.

Additionally, a routine will make your life as a new dog owner much easier. Having set times for everything will help you stay organized and on track. For example, when you go to work, exercise, or take a shower, put your dog in their crate or designated area with a toy or bone to chew on. This way, they know that when you leave the room, you’re coming back.

At night, establish a bedtime routine that includes some calm time before lights out. This will help your dog wind down and sleep through the night. They need plenty of sleep just like us, so a good bedtime routine is crucial!

2. Get to know your dog’s personality

Every dog is unique and has its own personality. It’s important to get to know your dog’s personality so you can figure out the best way to train them. Some dogs are more food-motivated than others, while some learn better with positive reinforcement.

If you’re not sure what motivates your dog, try different things and see what works best. One of the best tips for new dog owners when it comes to bonding with their dog is to spend time playing with them every day. This will help you get to know their personality and build a strong bond between you.

Likewise, your dog needs to get to know you and learn to trust you. Be patient, consistent, and loving with your dog, and they will reciprocate that trust and love.

3. Find a great vet from day one

One of the most important tips for new dog owners is to find a great veterinarian. Your vet will be your partner in keeping your dog healthy and happy. They can answer any questions you have about your dog’s health, nutrition, and behavior.

When you’re looking for a vet, make sure to find one that is experienced with the breed of dog you have. If you have a mixed-breed dog, that’s okay too! Any good vet will be able to give your dog the care they need.

Getting recommendations from friends or family is a great way to find a reputable vet. Once you’ve found a few options, schedule a meet-and-greet with the staff and tour the facility. This will help you get a feel for the vet and see if it’s a good fit for you and your dog.

4. Get your dog socialized

Another important tip for new dog owners is to make sure your dog is properly socialized. Socialization is important for all dogs, but it’s especially important for puppies. Puppies need to be exposed to different people, places, and experiences so they can learn how to interact with the world around them.

The best way to socialize your puppy is to take them to puppy classes. These classes are designed specifically for puppies and their owners. Puppy classes are a great way to socialize your puppy in a safe and controlled environment.

Another way to socialize your puppy is to take them on short walks in different neighborhoods. This will help them get used to different sights and sounds. It’s important not to overdo it, though. Start with short walks and gradually increase the length as your puppy gets older.

5. Create a safe space for their bed

It’s so so important to make sure your dog has a comfortable and safe place to sleep. Their bed should be in a quiet area away from any drafts. If you have other pets, their bed should be in a space where they can’t be bothered or disturbed.

Your dog’s bed is their space, and they should feel safe and comfortable there. Make sure to put their bed in a place where they can easily get to it and that it’s the right size for them. Dogs love to curl up in small spaces, so don’t get a bed that’s too big!

As we said in the tip about routine, sleep is important for dogs. A good night’s sleep will help your dog be happier and healthier, which is a priority for you as a new dog owner!

Final Tips For New Dog Owners

That just about covers it! These tips for new dog owners should set you on the path to success. Remember, every dog is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment and figure out what works best for you and your pup.

Before we go, we wanted to share a final tip for new dog owners that you might not have come across before, and that’s to get involved in the dog community. There are tons of great resources out there, including online forums, meetup groups, and dog-specific events.

Getting involved in the dog community is a great way for you to make new friends, learn more about dogs, and have a lot of fun! Dogs are social creatures, and so are humans!

Hopefully, these tips for new dog owners have been helpful. We wish you the best of luck on your journey as a new dog owner! Welcome to the club!