CHOOSING THE RIGHT DOG
When bringing a furry companion home, it's important to do your research on the type of dog that fits your lifestyle. You don't want to bring home the first puppy you see because it's cute or you like how the particular breed looks. This is a common mistake. Certain breeds will have tendencies which can make them difficult to live with if you can't meet their mental and physical needs. Of course there are exceptions to every rule but don't expect your friends gem of a Husky to be the standard.
When you find a dog/puppy you are interested in, research the breed(s) characteristics and ease of care.
A long coated dog such as a poodle or doodle will require consistent grooming at home and in the salon.
A double coated dog should not be shaved and will need to be brushed to pull out the excess fur and prevent matting.
A short coated dog will need protection from the cold but has the least amount of grooming needs.
Decide how much time are you willing to donate. Do you want a couch potato? Or a dog that will seemingly never tire? Perhaps something in between?
Are you looking for a puppy? Or an older dog? Puppies will require a lot of time and dedication to training. An older dog can be ideal if you are looking for a specific personality to fit your family.
Not all dog breeds are recommended for small children or small animals in the home. Take this into consideration.
Adoption is a great way to find your companion. Rescues and Shelters are at maximum capacity. The staff, volunteers, or fosters can usually tell you specifics about the dog/puppy you are interested in.
For any dog you bring home don't forget the 3-3-3 rule. 3 days of feeling overwhelmed and nervous. 3 weeks of settling in. 3 months of building trust and bonding with you. For some rescue dogs it can take a full year for them to settle into their forever home.
Still struggling? We would love to get involved! Contact us for training!