Inside: Top Online Resources For New Dog Owners. Collaborative post.
Getting your first dog is an exhilarating experience, and it can really improve your life. Dogs are known to improve your mental health and wellbeing, as well as being good company for you.
While owning a dog can be really good for you, it’s also a major learning curve. Animal husbandry and dog training are always changing, so you need to find the techniques and strategies that work best for you and your dog.
Here are some online resources that you can explore to help you make the right decisions for your new furry best friend.
A Puppy Raising Plan
Raising a puppy is a lot like having a baby, and you need to make sure that they have a schedule to make them feel comfortable. By making a puppy plan, you can ensure that your new pet will have the best possible start to life.
There are many dog trainers that offer online puppy raising plans, so you can read theirs and use them for inspiration. Some offer checklists, so you customise their options to suit your dog’s specific needs.
A Raw Feeding Guide
Raw dog food is a popular option for many modern dog owners, thanks to its many health benefits. However, many puppies begin life eating kibbles, as this is easier for breeders to store.
If your puppy comes to you eating kibble, and you want to transition them onto raw food, you’ll need a raw dog food feeding guide to make sure you know how much to give your dog throughout their life.
Crate Training Support
Crate training is an important skill that every new dog owner needs to know. While crates might seem scary, when used properly they can be a valuable tool to keep your puppy safe when you’re not able to watch them, such as while you’re out of the house, in the bathroom or cooking.
With a crate, it’s important that you use it correctly and make your dog feel comfortable with it so you need a crate training guide to ensure you make the right choices.
Muzzle Fitting and Training Guides
Like crate training, muzzle conditioning your dog is an often misunderstood practice that is now incredibly popular with dog owners. While your dog doesn’t have to wear the muzzle all the time, it pays to find one that fits properly, with adequate pant room, and then teach them to enjoy wearing it.
You’ll then have it ready if you need it, for example, if your puppy becomes scared at the vet. Use a muzzle training guide and fit diagram to make sure your dog is comfortable and associates the muzzle with positive things.
Puppy-Proofing Tips
Much like kids, puppies will get into things they shouldn’t, and when they do it can be disastrous, both for their health and your home. As such, you should read online blogs on how to puppy-proof your property.
Crate training can help you to keep your puppy safe when you’re out of the house, but you can’t watch them 24/7, so it pays to know other techniques, such as raising all wires and putting covers over bins, that will stop your puppy from harming themselves and your stuff.
A List Of Local Pet Care Professionals
While online resources are useful, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet or a professional dog trainer for personalised advice and guidance, especially for specific issues or concerns. Every dog owner needs a vet, and a good trainer is also important.
Some breeds of dogs require regular grooming, so you might also need a professional dog groomer. Find local lists of pet professionals in your area, and read the reviews before you commit to using them.