Whether you’re welcoming a dog for the first time or are an experienced pet owner, without proper guidance, owning a dog can lead to unexpected challenges. A professional dog trainer warns that failing to follow certain must-do actions could cause your new pet to develop anxiety.
Dogs rely on structure, routine, and clear communication to feel secure in their environment. Without these key elements, dog owners may unintentionally create stress and confusion for their furry friends. Sam The Dog Trainer, says that a person who is lazy or who is “overly busy should not own a dog.” Here are the correct steps to follow for a happy and confident pet.
Before revealing what steps to follow, Sam explains the repercussions of an “overly busy” pet owner. He said: “The person that works a lot of hours every day, who can’t spend quantity and quality time with a dog, shouldn’t own a dog. Giving your dog only quality time (regular, but brief intense sessions) will backfire on you.
“From your dog’s point of view, that kind of day is very boring and stressful, as it waits for its brief encounter with you. It eats them up inside and causes a multitude of behavioral and psychological problems, such as separation anxiety.”
Two key steps to take for first-time owners
1. Quality time
When welcoming a new pooch into your home, whether it is a puppy or a new mature dog, as fresh ‘parents’ you need to spend at least one full, uninterrupted week in its first week home, but two weeks is better. During this time, he advises taking your furry friend on a walk every day and implementing playtime with toys.
The Dog’s Trust advises that puppies can typically go on their first walk one to two weeks after they have completed their primary vaccination course. New dogs must also undergo housetraining and crate training.
Quality time doesn’t end there. Dogs need at least 2 to 3 hours of personal time every day. Sam said, “You must have enough time so that you are able to enjoy the process yourself. If it isn’t going to be fun for you, then now isn’t the time to get a dog.”
2. Maintenance
The trainer lists the basics that need to be maintained, such as grooming your pooch, visiting the vet, and cleaning up after any messes. To keep your dog happy and healthy, most need at least “a one-mile brisk walk per day, and some dogs need a five-mile walk or run every day.”
During walks, the expert advises socialising dogs by interacting with other canines and visiting new areas to keep them from getting bored. Lastly, Sam advised: “Train your dog with a dog trainer, then do at least 3 maintenance lessons every week for the life of your dog.”