What Do You Need To Take Care Of A Dog?

So you've decided to open your heart and home to a furry friend! Congratulations! Whether you're drawn to the playful enthusiasm of a puppy or the soulful eyes of a rescue adult dog, you're embarking on an incredible journey filled with wagging tails, wet noses, and unconditional love.

But along with the excitement comes responsibility. You're probably wondering, "Now what do dogs need, and how do I take care of a dog?" Don't worry, future pet parent, you're not alone! 

This guide is your roadmap to navigating the wonderful world of dog ownership. We'll dive into everything from choosing the right food and setting up comfy digs to mastering basic training and understanding your dog's emotional needs. 

Consider this your pup prep manual, packed with valuable information and helpful tips to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new best friend. Get ready for walks in the park, cuddles on the couch, and a lifetime of pawsome adventures – let's make sure you're fully equipped for the journey!

Things To Know Before Getting A Dog

If you’re still in the deciding stages, we’ve got a list of things to know before you get a dog. 

The cute, puppy-dog eyes, the playful spirit, the unconditional love… bringing a dog into your life can be incredibly rewarding. But before you succumb to the puppy-eyed pleas, it's crucial to think carefully about this important decision.

This isn't just about picking out a cute ball of fur; it's about welcoming a committed responsibility into your life. We will help you navigate the decision-making process with honesty and awareness.

Owning a dog is a long-term commitment. The average dog lifespan varies greatly between breeds, but you can expect many small breeds to live anywhere between 12-18 years; larger breeds are somewhat shorter, at 8-12 years, but as you can see, even 8 years is a long commitment. 

You will need time. And plenty of it. Dogs require lots of attention so that they don’t get lonely, and they need regular exercise so you will need to change parts of your current lifestyle to accommodate your new best friend.

The breed. All dogs are different, but many purebred dogs exhibit similar personality traits. It is important that you take the following into consideration:

• Is your home big enough for your chosen breed?
• Do you have a yard?
• Do you live in an area where you can take your dog on long walks?
• Do you have children? If so, is this a friendly and patient breed?
• How much exercise per day will your breed require?

Money. Dogs aren't cheap. The cost of your chosen breed alone could be thousands of dollars, and then you have the initial costs of their bedding, leads and accessories. You will need to consider insurance and potential vet bills. 

Remember, bringing a dog home is a journey, not a quick fix. By asking yourself these tough questions and planning ahead, you can confidently decide if dog ownership is truly the right path for you, and ensure a joyful, fulfilling life for your future canine companion.

Ready to explore the world of responsible dog ownership and what you need to take care of a dog? Let's begin!

So, You’re Getting A Dog, Now What Do You Need To Take Care Of Them?

You've taken the pawsome plunge and decided to welcome a furry friend into your life. But before the tail wags and slobbery kisses commence, there's a little prep work to ensure your pooch arrives in a happy, prepared home. Here's what you need to do before your pup's grand entrance:

Essentials for Everyday Life

Nutritious Food: Research and choose a high-quality dog food appropriate for your breed and age. At Know Better Pet Food, we provide your dog with essential nutrients and protein for health and longevity. It makes balancing a homemade meat diet at home, easy and convenient. Prescribed most often by Holistic Veterinarians. Easy to use, just add raw or cooked meat and water. You’ll also need dog food bowls, measuring cups, and storage containers!

Shop Our Homemade Dog Food Range Here

Hydration Station: Fresh clean water is key. Invest in multiple water bowls for different areas of the house and walks so that they always have access to water.

Sleepy Time: Create a comfy sleeping space with a cozy bed, blankets, and maybe even a fun chew toy for snuggles.

Nature Calls: Stock up on potty pads, poop bags and a sturdy leash for those essential bathroom breaks. Don't forget a collar and ID tag!

Playtime Fun: Keep your pup entertained with engaging toys, chew toys, and puzzle feeders for mental stimulation and to prevent boredom.

Taking Care Of A Dog At Home

Grooming Gear: Depending on your breed, brushes, flea comb, toothbrush, shampoo, ear cleaner, and nail clippers for regular nail trims might be needed. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Clean-Up Crew: Keep accidents and messes at bay with enzymatic cleaners, paper towels, and stain removers specifically designed for pet messes.

Safety First: Puppy-proof your home by securing electrical cords, hiding toxic plants, and blocking off potential escape routes. Consider baby gates for added safety.

Health & Wellness

Find a Vet: Choose a local veterinarian you trust and schedule a pre-puppy visit to discuss general care, vaccinations, and potential breed-specific health concerns and issues.

Pet Insurance: Consider pet insurance to help manage unexpected vet bills and ensure your pup gets the best care possible.

Parasite Prevention: Talk to your vet about flea, tick, and heartworm prevention medication to keep your dog healthy and parasite-free.

Dog Supplements: We have a selection of premium dog supplements that you can sprinkle onto your dog's food to ensure they’re getting the right nutrients throughout their life. 

Shop Our Range Of Dog Supplements Here

Training Time

General Dog Training: Whether you have decided to get a puppy or a dog from an animal shelter, you can be certain they will need some form of training to remove any unwanted behaviour issues. There are many different forms of dog training, you can read up on them and see which one suits your taste; reward-based training, positive reinforcement training, obedience training, advanced dog training etc.

Crate Training: If you want to keep your dog in a crate overnight or whilst you're out at work, you're going to need a training crate and some knowledge on how to go about starting this type of training.

Enroll in Puppy Kindergarten: Early socialization and basic obedience training are crucial for a well-rounded dog. Puppy classes can be a fun and rewarding experience, not to mention a whole lot of social interactions for you and your pup.

Stock Up on Treats: Positive reinforcement is key when training. Get yummy, healthy treats your dog loves to motivate them during training sessions.

Be Patient and Consistent: Remember, training takes time and patience. Stick to positive reinforcement methods and be consistent with your commands.

Bonus Tip: Take advantage of the pre-arrival time to research common dog care questions and stock up on resources like books, websites, and online communities. Remember, owning a dog is an incredible journey, but it's a commitment. By being prepared and informed, you can ensure a smooth transition and a lifetime of love and happiness with your new furry best friend!

Trust In Know Better Pet Food

You came to this blog looking for answers on what you need to take care of your dog. With Know Better for Dogs, you can provide your dog with essential nutrients and protein for his/her health and longevity. As a result, it is convenient and easy to balance a homemade meat diet at home with these premixes. Recommended every day by many Holistic Veterinarians. Just add water and raw or cooked meat to make a homemade meal for your dog.

Browse both homemade dog food and dog supplements from Know Better Pet Food to ensure a healthy dog, a regular feeding schedule and happy pet parents.