Wicker & Wilde are proud dog parents. We wouldn't do anything differently, but there are some things you should know when adopting your dog. If you have been toying with the idea of bringing home a canine companion, it’s good to do a little research before diving in. The experience is very rewarding but will be less stressful and more fun if you're prepared. Check out these tips before becoming a puppy parent.
The puppy stage will test you. Puppies are adorable, but they are also a huge amount of work. You need to get them outside often, teach them commands, and keep an eye on them nonstop. Just remember that it’s a phase, and your dog will grow out of it. The best advice Rebecca can offer is have patience and if you think a behavior is funny as a puppy, then think if you'd like that behavior as an adult (e.g. chewing shoes). If it wouldn't be funny when they grow up then nip that behavior in the bud. Also whether a puppy or adult, separation anxiety does not make your dog a "bad" dog.....make sure to be gentle and remember that you, your family, house, friends, etc. are new and strange and they need time to adjust and get into a routine.
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Prepare to spend a lot of money. Having a dog will cost money, and it’s not just dog food. Vet visits, pet insurance, dog walkers, daycare, training, toys, and more will all add up. Be prepared for the amount of money you’ll spend.
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No more spontaneous travel for you unless you take the babe with you. You’ll need to find dog sitters for any time you’re leaving town for the weekend. Dogs are welcome at some vacation rentals, but you’ll need to research before packing up and leaving. Many dog owners find it stressful and difficult to leave their dogs behind with strangers. If you do, then do your homework and get references....or find a friend or neighbor to help. If you’ve never been much of a homebody, you might find that your preferences change when you have a pup at home.
Dog training never ends. You’ll teach your dog the basic commands, but as they grow up and experience new things, it’s important to continue teaching things to your dog. They may pick up new quirks or need a refresh on specific situations, so you will never be done training. AND....teach your dog what you want them to know. Things like "wait" when you are walking and need to stop for a car. Just because your friends teach their dog "paw" doesn't mean you have to .
Vacuuming will happen nonstop. Dogs shed and make messes, so you will want to make sure you have a great vacuum and plan to do it often. When Rebecca was an adoption counselor, people would come in and ask for a "short-haired dog because of less shedding." She can tell you that short haired dogs can shed an enormous amount.....so just pick a dog whose personality you like.
Life will never be the same, but it’s better. You will feel all the feels and savor some of the simplest moments by bringing a dog into your home. It’s an amazing experience.
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For more great information check out the Farmer's Dog site. Lastly we always encourage you to Adopt Don't Shop, but if you do go to a breeder, again, do your homework. There are good and bad and do not trust everything you see and read on the internet. Good Luck and remember that life is better with a DOG.
