You are ecstatic, the decision to bring home a four pawed furry legend has been made. Excitement is high in the house and everyone is trying their best to prepare for the warmest of welcomes. All you need to do now, is to create the safest place you can for your pupper, an easy task that every pet parent is motivated to do.
Unlike most other pets, man’s best friend comes in various sizes and sometimes the safeguards you need to make vary depending on these sizes. To make things easier for you, we will mention safeguards for big dogs, small dogs, and for all dogs in general.
Let’s jump into it right away.
Big Dogs:
- Big doggos naturally need more space, if you live in a smaller area that cannot accommodate for big movements, then only consider getting them if there’s ample space for them to play in your backyard or garden.
- Plenty running space for playtime and other activities will ensure that your puppy doesn’t face health issues that follow a sedentary life.
- Regular exercise is a must for big dogs since they have more energy to expend.
- Big dogs need a proper dedicated area that has a comfy bed and all their toys. This is where they know they can come to rest. It keeps them off the furniture and makes them feel safe.
- Watch over their interactions with children to ensure safety for both.
- Since they can reach high places and countertops, keep toxic substances out of their reach. This also means dog-proofing the trash can to avoid any mishaps.
Small Dogs:
- Due to their size, small dogs are always territorial and conscious. They tend to be on high alert at all times. Best way to deal with it is to help them slowly acclimatize to new experiences.
- Let your pet experience any and all kinds of stimulants such as different types of pets, a full range of colorful clothes that one might wear at home, and people other than immediate family. This will curb them from reacting negatively to new random experiences.
- The little ones are sneaky and can get into tricky spaces in the house, so make sure to block these spots in advance.
- They are also prone to falling from heights, best to keep a watch or build easy ramps to avoid injuries.
- Small dogs are sensitive to extreme temperatures so you might have to extra precautions on that front. Engage in lighter activities during summers and use more layers during winters.
All Dogs:
- Dogs are social creatures but it doesn’t come naturally to them. You need to gradually introduce them to other pets, humans, and new environments bit by bit. This helps prevent aggressive reactions and lets the pet see these as positive and safe experiences.
- Training is absolutely recommended when bringing home a new pupper. It helps them stay calm and relaxed in the house. They adapt to the environment they are in faster. If your pup is frustrated, it’ll teach them to release that energy on the toys instead of the furniture.
- Dog toys are designed based on the size of the dog as well, so make sure you buy the appropriate one for your pupper.
- Consult with your vet to understand the diet of your dog, a lot will depend on their size as well.
- Keep a pet first aid kit handy always and maintain a list of vet hospitals in your vicinity.
- Potty training is crucial early on for a lifetime of good habits. On top of that, also introduce them to pee pads or pee sprays.
Safeguarding your best friend is an active lifelong endeavor that you will partake in selflessly. So keep these pointers in mind and be vigilant to give them a secure happy life. The rest will just fall in place.
Getting another pet instead of a dog? We got you covered! Head over to this link to learn how safeguarding works for other pets.
