What You Can Expect When Adopting A Dog

There are dozens of books out there preparing new parents to welcome a baby into the world, but what about adopting a fur baby? Adopting a dog is a big and exciting decision that could also be a bit scary. It’s a great one of you’re looking to add some joy into your life and challenge yourself to take on more responsibility. Making the decision is the easiest part, it’s the responsibility bit that could be tricky. Don’t worry, we got you covered with this dog version of What to Expect When You’re Expecting.

1. ‘Ruff’ Start

The excitement of bringing a dog into the house is one of the best feelings ever, but it might not be reciprocated, at least not right away. Of course, you expect dogs to be all energetic and active running around the house, and you might expect them to shower you with cuddles from day one. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Dogs usually take some time to adjust to their new environment, so they’ll be reserved and mostly keep to themselves. Don’t sweat it though, give them time, and once they explore their surroundings and sniff around for a few days (that includes sniffing you too), their true personality will start to shine through and you’ll finally get some of that good dog lovin’.

2. So Many Questions

You might think the whole thing is a piece of cake. It’s just a dog, it eats and plays and sleeps. Wrong! Adopting a dog is a big responsibility and each day will bring on new questions, and that’s completely normal. “What should I feed it” is a popular one. If you thought dogs eat anything and everything, think again because keeping them on a healthy diet is very important. You have to know which foods they aren’t allowed to eat and which must be incorporated, and it’s usually according to their age. Even if you’re only sticking to dog food, there are plenty of types. Recently, dehydrated dog food has become popular among dog owners because it sustains the nutrients in its ingredients. Ask your vet about what food is best suited for your dog or use this useful guide for some of the best dog food brands out there. It’s important that you get a reliable brand so that you can guarantee that your pup is getting the right kind of nutrition.

3. A Mess

If you still didn’t adopt your dog, take a good, long look at your place and soak it in because it will never look the same again. You must already know how dogs make a mess here and there, but what you probably won’t expect is just how permanent it is. You have to come to terms with the fact that things will be spilled and other things will be stained. Forever. If you have any expensive furniture, it would be wise to store it away or put it in a no-dog zone. There is an upside to this though, the adorable look of guilt on your dog’s face after creating a disaster will be hilarious, there are whole videos and memes made just about it. Then there’s another kind of mess you’ll have to make peace with, the fact that no matter how much you clean, their things will always be scattered around. Their bed, toys, and whichever weird objects they’ve taken interest in playing with will be everywhere, but in all honesty, this type of mess is a cute one. It’s the same as in a house with a child, it makes the place more joyous. Once you get used to it, you won’t be able to imagine the house without it.

4. A Cure For Your Mess

Dogs don’t just create messes, they clean up some of yours too, both in the emotional and physical sense. Dogs are proven to be major mood boosters, so say goodbye to grumpy mornings because you’ll now be met with a smiley furry face and a wagging tail excited to start the day. Dogs will also force you to be more active since they need their daily walks which will sometimes turn into running around with them. Might as well cancel the gym subscription now and say hello to your new training buddy. Bonus point: your dog will help you make new friends with other dog-walkers when they stop and play with them along the way.

Having a dog is one of the greatest experiences you could have. They have a way of teaching us boring, clueless humans many valuable life lessons, so you’ll be getting a learning experience as well, not just fun. They teach you responsibility, unconditional love, and enjoying the small things in life. Besides all of that, you’ll be gaining a life long friend who only wants your attention and love in return.

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