In Singapore, the trend of getting a dog has been steadily increasing in recent years. According to a survey conducted in 2018, there are now over 200,000 pet dogs in Singapore. This is likely due to the rise of pet-friendly apartments and parks, as well as a growing awareness of the benefits of owning a pet.
If you're considering getting a dog, it's important to do your research and be prepared for the commitment of caring for your pup. If you are a first time puppy owner, there are several important tips to keep in mind in order to ensure that your pup is healthy and happy. Here are 8 things to take note of if you are a firs time dog owner!
1. Get your pup used to a routine: Make sure your pup has a set daily schedule for eating, sleeping, and playing. This will help them understand what is expected of them and will help them adjust to their new home. Feed them at the same time each day and have a consistent bedtime. Having a routine for your puppy will help reduce anxiety and stress, as it will provide structure and consistency.
Photo Credits: www.freepik.com
2. Establish boundaries: Dogs need to know their place in your home and it's important to set boundaries from the beginning. This will help them understand what behaviors are acceptable and what are not. Make sure to use positive training methods and reward good behavior.
Photo Credits: https://www.insidedogsworld.com/establishing-boundaries-limitations-to-your-dog/
3. Start training early: Training your pup early on will make it easier to teach them new behaviors and commands. It is vital to start training your puppy early because it will make it easier to teach them new behaviors and commands.This can include basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and drop it. If you wait to start training, your puppy may develop bad habits that will be harder to break. Additionally, starting early will help them learn faster and will help you bond with your pup.
Photo Credits: https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-training/basic/dog-training
4. Socialize your pup: Let your pup meet people and other animals in safe and controlled environments. It is important to socialize your pup at an early stage because it will help them become more comfortable in new situations and will help them learn how to interact with other animals and people. Socializing your pup will also help them become more confident and less fearful of new situations. Here’s 5 dog friendly activities you might be interested in for socializing your pup; Click here.
Photo Credits: https://be.chewy.com/socializing-an-older-dog/
5. Exercise your pup: Make sure you provide your pup with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation which can include walks and playtime. Moreover, it is a great way to bond with your pup and will help them learn how to behave properly when out in public.
6. Keep them healthy: Make sure you provide your pup with regular vet visits and all the necessary vaccinations. Regular vet visits will help catch any potential health issues early, vaccinations are important for keeping your pup protected from diseases and illnesses. Finally, keep their living environment clean and free from any hazards; here’s an article you might be interested in! Click here.
Photo Credits: https://www.petinsurance.com/healthzone/pet-health/pet-food-and-recipes/alternate-dog-treats/
