New Dog, New Rules!
When thinking about adding a new dog to the family, several different rules are going to be in play as you make the committed decision to become a dog owner. As the family pet is for life, you need to choose your family member carefully and with detailed research. It is important to find the breed that fits the lifestyle of your family. Doing research on breed behavior, size, life span, toy/prey drive, and social needs is especially important in having a successful relationship with your newest family member.
Ernie, from Rescue to Emotional Support Canine
Being a responsible pet owner is the most important aspect to consider. Dogs cannot speak with words, but instead rely on actions, posture, and body language to communicate. While getting a dog that looks cool or that is popular is common; it is not that simple.
Things to consider: Is this your first dog? Do you have children in the house? How old are the children? How often and how long are you away from the home? What will you do with the dog when you go on extended vacation? Who will take care of the dog when it cannot come along with the family?
Cilla and Mattis (Support Pup in training)
All of the above points are important discussions to have with your family members. These questions and many more play into a successful transition for your new dog. If you are getting a puppy as the new family member, this does give you the ability to mold your puppy, with the proper training, from day one. The first year of the puppy’s life will set the standard for its life and give you the ability to manage a proper relationship. Be aware, puppies do require additional time and attention as they develop and go through the dog “toddler” stage.
If you are going with adoption, you will need to have an understanding of canine behavior. The best option is to have your dog evaluated by an experienced and skilled advisor. Adoption can be extremely rewarding, but this also means that the dog was surrendered by someone else. The life this dog had previously is especially important to fully understand your new dog. Was there a behavior issue? Was it a poor lifestyle match? Were the owners unable to give the dog the proper amount of time needed for training and exercise? Sometimes a surrender is due to no fault of the dog. (Moving, death of owner, change in lifestyle, etc) The older the dog, there is a greater chance to have more negatively reinforced learned behaviors. Understanding the background and training of your rescue will only help you and your family successfully bring this dog into your life. It is essential for your family and for the dog to consider all of these factors.
Puppy or Rescue? Do your research to help you find the perfect fit for your family.
Mattis 14 week old Bullmastiff
