Tips for First Time Dog Owners

Adopting your first dog can be both a stressful and exciting time. You are welcoming a new member into your family, but you may be lost on your first steps to prepare for this new member. America’s Country Store and Pet Resort is here to give first-time dog owners tips on training and caring for your new furry friend. 

Food & Supplies

The first thing you need to do to prepare for your new pet is to get supplies. Make sure you buy plenty of toys, a dog bed, leash, collar, and bowls for food. Different breeds and ages of dogs have different nutritional requirements. Before bringing your furry friend home, be sure to consult with a veterinarian or staff where you adopted your dog about your dog’s dietary needs and restrictions. Once you decide on a brand of food that’s best for your pup, stock up before bringing your new dog home! 

Prepare Your Home 

Unless you are adopting an older dog who had a previous owner, your new dog will most likely not be housetrained. You need to prepare your home for accidents. Avoid letting your dog have free reign of the whole house right away. Try to create a gated space or separate room for your dog. This avoids overwhelming your new dog and allows them to adjust to their new surroundings. In this space, it may be a good idea to layout potty pads in case your dog has an accident. Remove any valuables or items that may be damaged from your dog chewing on them. 

Start Training 

Proper training is essential for all dogs. It is important to discourage unwanted behaviors by offering alternative options. For example, if your dog is chewing your shoe, take away the shoe and put a toy in their mouth instead. If your dog used the bathroom inside, take your dog outside to show them that’s where they should be going. You should also reward good behavior with praise and treats. It is also important to train your dog to be comfortable in their crate, so when you can’t supervise your dog, you can put them in their crate and avoid any accidents. It also can be beneficial to take your dog to dog daycare or classes if you work during the day, want help with training, or want to get your dog comfortable being around other dogs. 

Develop a Routine 

Coming up with a daily routine can help your dog adjust to their new household. It is important to feed your dog, take your dog on walks or outside, and crate your dog around the same time every day. This helps your dog get settled and aids in potty and crate training. 

Remember to be patient with your new pup! They are adjusting to being in a new environment just like you’re adjusting to having a new pet. Give your dog time to settle in and adjust. When it comes to setting your new dog up for success, America’s Country Store and Pet Resort has you covered. Not only do we offer all the pet supplies you’ll need for your new furry friend, but we also offer dog grooming, dog daycare, and dog boarding. Let us relieve some of the stress of being a dog-owner and trust us with your grooming, training, and boarding needs. Contact us today for pricing and more information about our services in College Station and Bryan, TX.