It is important to take your new dog to the
vet ASAP. He or she will advise on the recommended shots and on some type of
flea, tick and parasite control. There are loads of supplies available for
puppies and dogs. Above are the basics. The amount of money you spend on
your new pet can be endless, from doggie car seats to an endless amount of
training equipment to strollers for small dogs (which are not good BTW, as dogs, even small dogs, instinctually need to walk daily). How far
you choose to go with the dog supplies is up to you and your budget. For a
dog to be truly happy it does not need all of the fancy equipment and
supplies.
The happiest dogs are the dogs with firm, consistent, confident pack leaders; dogs like nothing more than to
know who runs the show in the house, and understand what rules they are to follow. They long for structure and discipline. It's part of their canine instinct, to have an order and clearly know what is expected of them. You do not need to be constantly
playing with the dog for the dog to enjoy your presence. If you
have a situation where your dog or puppy will be left alone for
long periods of time on a regular basis, be sure to pack walk your dog before you leave, and after you get home. You may want to consider adopting
more than one dog so the dogs can keep one another company
during the times when their humans are not home, however they will still need the pack walk. Remember, dogs
have a pact instinct, and most do not like to be left alone.
Dogs who are left alone need to be well exercised before you leave, so they are in a natural rest mode. If you do not do this, they will be prone to getting themselves
into trouble, such as chewing and other destructive behaviors.
A dog who does not clearly know his place, or who places himself above humans in the pack order, will get very upset when you leave. Within the canine social structure, pack leaders are allowed to leave the followers, however followers are not allowed to leave the pack leaders. Give your dog plenty of exercise and spend as much time as
possible with him. Above all, remember to choose the right breed for the level of energy your family has, and be your dog's firm, confident leader, so he does not feel he needs to be yours!
