Unlike cats, dogs are creatures of reaction and emotion. If they’re happy, you’ll be sure to see a wagging tail. If they’re in pain, they’ll certainly let you know with a high-pitched whine. They’re helpful companions for people with mental health problems (check it out) and advocates of acceptance and loyalty. They’re going to be your best friend for their entire lifetime, which is why you need to know how to take care of them properly.
However, even though a Welsh terrier is a well-known dog breed, they still have the same considerations as any other canine. And since you’ve opened up this article, we can assume your dog is the same breed as well. Whether you’re a beginner or a long-time dog owner, learning how to take care of your dog is never a waste of time or a misstep.
General Considerations When Caring For Your Dog
- Shelter
If you’re planning to take in a puppy from adoption, you’ll need to go through more preparation than getting an already adult dog. With a puppy, it’s important to puppy-proof your entire house to ensure the little pup’s safety, and the preservation of your furniture and household things. It’s like baby-proofing, only with slight differences.
To start, get a puppy’s eye view of your home. In this way, you can see electrical cords, small objects, sharp edges, and other notable things that can possibly harm them if they ever decide to chew on it.
Move all your household leaning materials and other toxic products to higher ground. Even behind closed doors and spaces, puppies have a canny ability to sniff them out and squeeze their little bodies inside the room. You can also accidentally forget to close the door, which leaves them full-acess to the utility closet. You can either kiss your mop of your newfound friend goodbye when this happens.
Your dog’s breed doesn’t exempt this kind of behaviour. Whether it be Doberman, Welsh terrier, or even the famous Cavs start out as mischievous puppies during their early days. Child-safe latches aren’t a reliable option if you’re thinking about it, as puppies are relentless and determined by nature. Unlike having an adult dog, which are mostly domesticated and trained, puppies listen to no one, just like little kids in mischief.
The safest thing you can do is get baby gates or sturdy pet gates to keep out the puppies in restricted places. Make sure they steer clear from the kitchen where the sharps are located, and trashcans are present. Do this step first and foremost to grant yourself the peace of mind you deserve.
- Essential Supplies Your Dog/Puppy Needs
Just like babies need clothes, cribs, strollers, and tons of diaper, puppies have their own set of supplies too. The most important you can get them is a leash and a collar that isn’t too tight around their neck. Also make sure these contain identification and your address for emergency situations. Other essentials include dog food, dog food and water bowls, and chew toys. You also need to purchase their very own doggy bed and a blanket for those cold winter nights.
If you have extra cash, you can purchase a kennel or a crate for them, but a doggy bed by the side of the sofa is already acceptable sleeping area for them. Keep in mind that as they grow bigger, you’ll need to change some of these essentials, like the leash, collar, doggy bed and a lot more.
- Dog Food And Nourishment
If you’re adopting a puppy, there’s a great potential for their health, which can determine how long they’ll stick around with you. An adult dog can have less time with you due to many factors, but nutrition and diet can be a big reason for some sicknesses. Nutrition can be very important, which is important for a growing puppy.
Some can consider buying premium food in the grocery store, others prefer to let their dogs have natural and holistic diets. Some even make homemade food (link:https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/homemade-dog-food#1) just for their puppy or adult dog. This ensures you control the food they eat and give them the proper nutrients needed in their everyday life. Some add supplements and vitamins as extra fortification for their health.
While you search for your own dog food choice, take into consideration the nutritional value, and not because you saw it on TV or an ad. There should be enough carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals to build your puppy strong and healthy, or give your adult dog a late yet carefully prepared meal.
- Maintaining Your Puppy/Adult Dog’s Health
It’s ideal to find a veterinarian before you adopt a puppy, but choosing a local vet closest to your place can be acceptable as well. Make sure you choose the nearest one, so in case an emergency occurs, you won’t waste time driving miles just to arrive at the hospital.
When your puppy arrives, they’re due for a general exam. This can be the same for an adult dog as well, especially one that hasn’t been given its first shot yet. To make the experience a tolerable one for both types of dogs, be there and be present as the vet injects or does the general exam. You being near will give them great comfort and can ultimately build trust between you and your newfound buddy.
For your puppy friend, you’ll get busy bringing it to the vet. This will entail sessions of puppy vaccine shots and even being spayed or neutered. This is also a great way to determine any sicknesses hiding in your canine’s body, which can’t be identified without the expert eye of the vet.
