Being a dog owner is an extraordinary experience that can bring loads of happiness into your life. However, beyond the playtime and cuddles, owning a canine poses a huge responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Given how your new furry friend will undoubtedly rely on you for their safety and well-being, we put together this guide for first time dog owners that details what you should consider to ensure your dog has the best life possible.

Find a Veterinarian You Trust

Finding the right veterinarian and regularly taking your canine in for check-ups is one of the most important tasks for first time pet owners to understand. Your veterinarian will be able to determine if they’re up to date on all their vaccinations, check for any existing or potential health concerns, help with flea and tick prevention strategies, neuter or spay your dog, recommend nearby dog groomers and trainers, and much more. With any new pet, a good rule of thumb is to always make sure they have a quality vet who cares about their longterm health.

Research Your Dog’s Breed

Dogs, in particular, come in many shapes, sizes, and personalities. By researching common traits, health issues, and behaviors of your canine’s breed, you’ll be able to pick up on tactics to best ensure your furry friend has a long and happy life. Additionally, seeing how each dog has an individual personality, it’s important to consider the origin and age of your new dog. 

Prepare Your Home

Before your new dog first enters your house, we advise you prepare your home for their arrival. For your dog to feel comfortable, create a dedicated dog zone in which they can feel safe in. In this zone, place potty pads down in case they’re not trained, provide a dog-bed with blankets, and scatter some chew toys around for them to play with. Outside of this zone, make sure your living space is clutter-free, hide their food in a hard-to-reach cabinet, secure electrical cords and house plants, and make sure they can’t escape your home.

Select Nutritional & Biologically Appropriate Dog Food

A dog’s diet plays a pivotal role in their health and well-being over the course of their life, which is why we highly recommend Dr. Bill’s Pet Nutrition. Combining decades of experience with the latest veterinary research and technology, Dr. Bill’s animal health supplements are designed to meet all federal and state regulatory requirements. All canine products are developed and manufactured in the U.S.A. from worldwide sourced ingredients for that support enhanced health, fitness, and longevity in dogs. Dr. Bill’s Canine Ultimate Health & Fitness, in particular, is packed with 83-active ingredients which are formulated to provide a blend of high biological value proteins, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, essential vitamins, essential minerals, and multiple specialty ingredients known to be helpful in the development and maintenance of a strong, physically fit body, improved health, and an extended life.

Groom Your Dog

Consistent grooming ensures that your dog stays healthy and free of infections, fleas, and more. Grooming also gives owners the ability to thoroughly inspect areas such as their nails, paws, eyes, ears, coat, and skin. Each canine breed requires their own grooming and bathing techniques, although it’s important to research and know your dog’s personal grooming requirements.

Train Your Dog as You See Fit

You don’t necessarily need to enroll your dog into a training program if you don’t want to, although it’s important to train your dog basic etiquette so that they’re socialized well. Be sure not to overfeed, exercise them every day, pinpoint and overcome behavioral issues, socialize them with other pets and humans, and focus on their overall personality as they age.