Dog’s – Man’s Best Friend

A dog’s loving nature and almost human mannerisms have earned them a place in the hearts of 470 million people and families worldwide, making them the world’s most popular pet. However, with their loving ways, comes a lot of responsibility, a need for patience, time and motivation to exercise with your canine companion.

So, what should you consider before buying a dog?

Size and Space Available

   Your living space should be seriously considered before buying or rescuing a dog. There should be enough room for your dog to comfortably roam, play and stretch. A Great Dane, for example, would be a bad idea in a small apartment. Not only will it be unfair on the dog, but it will also lead to damage to fixtures, fittings and your personal items, as your new furry friend grows bored.

The people sharing the space with the dog should also be taken into consideration. While some dogs are tolerant of children pulling at their ears and tails, while waving Buzz Lightyear in their faces, others are not.

Patience

Puppies are like toddlers. They yearn for attention and have a tendency to chew on things that shouldn’t be chewed on. They also need to be properly trained to go to the toilet on walks or whine at the door when they need when inside. This is a process and involves a lot of messy accidents along the way. A steadfast patience and an understanding are essential to keep you and your dog happy.

Other Pets

It can be quite a chore to introduce a new puppy to a house with other pets (particularly cats). While the cats have already claimed the space as their own, puppies and dogs also like to be the king (or queen) of the castle. You need to be prepared to play referee in this instinctual rivalry between cat and dog.

It’s often advised to put one of your animals into another room and let them sniff at each other under or through the door. Both cats and dogs rely heavily on scent and this will allow them to familiarize themselves with each other.