Getting a dog and bringing it home for the first time can be a mixture of emotions, from the excitement of having a new furry friend to share your life with, to the anxiety about the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. So, it is important that you make the relevant preparations when it comes to getting a big dog.
While we all know that dogs come in different breeds and sizes, not all of us are aware of how the size and breed of a dog will determine how you care for it and how you need to prepare your home. So, we have put together this guide on what to expect when getting a big dog and how to prepare both your home and your life in anticipation for your dog’s arrival.
Dog Proof Your Home… and Your Yard
While big dogs are lots of fun and can help to make you feel safer and more secure when at home, it is important that you are aware of the extra space a big dog will take up in comparison to a small dog. This is why it is important that you dog proof your home. Big dogs have height and strength in their favor, so are able to reach areas and places of your house that you wouldn’t expect.
Be sure to remove any electrical cords that are around that your dog might chew on, as well as putting anything hazardous on top shelves out of the way. We also recommend that you secure your yard for your big dog’s arrival as you will be surprised at how easy your big dog will find it to escape the second your back is turned.
Find the Right Foods
While every dog is unique, the types and amount of food that big dogs eat can be different in comparison to small dogs. So, it is important that you take the time to find the right type of food for your new arrival. Even though it may be tempting to buy lots of dog food for your dog’s arrival, you shouldn’t make too much of an investment until you are sure your dog likes the food.
If you are unsure what sort of food is best for your big dog, then here in this post on Doggypedia you can find out all about the best puppy food for large dog breeds. Remember that dogs have different tastes, just like us humans do.
Do You Know Who Your Local Vet is?
When getting any dog, no matter the breed or size, you should expect to take regular trips to the vets to ensure that your dog is in good health. However, the type of vet you go and see may be determined by the breed and size of your dog.
Check out the local vets in your area, including an emergency vet that will be available during the night. You never know when you might need to take your dog to the vets in a rush. Ask around any other dog owners that you know and see if you can get any vet recommendations so that you know your dog is getting the best treatment around that is right for them.
Don’t Forget About Costs
While getting a dog is a lot of fun and excitement, it can also cost a considerable amount of money and these costs can increase if you get a large dog breed. For example, a big dog is likely to eat more and therefore cost you more money. Be sure to consider these costs before bringing your dog home.
By doing your research and making the relevant preparations for your big dog’s arrival, you can know exactly what to expect when bringing a canine companion into your home.
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