Dogs can be wonderful additions to families, positively influencing your children’s development and enhancing family dynamics. However, caring for a dog requires hard work, patience, and understanding. If you plan to bring a furry friend into your home, this article provides essential pointers on how to prepare your family to ensure a smooth transition.
Choose the Right Dog
When choosing a dog for your family, make sure they’re suitable for children. Explore the different dog breeds and learn essential details such as temperament, size, and energy level. Select a dog with a patient and gentle nature, one that is easily trainable, and has a calm temperament.
Consider your family’s lifestyle as some dogs are ideal indoors, while others need to spend more time outdoors to burn energy. Mini Bernedoodles are great options as they are tolerant of children, playful, and generally affectionate. Check your local community or trusted online sites for a Mini Bernedoodle for sale and ensure that your preferred pup is healthy and vaccinated
Prepare Your Home
After choosing your family’s dog, the next step is to make your home dog-friendly. It is vital you create a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for your new pup. Assess your home for potential hazards such as items they can choke on, electrical hazards, and toxic substances.
Some cleaning products can be toxic to pets, so be sure to store them somewhere inaccessible to your dog. Trash bins can also be attractive to dogs, so replace your trash cans with lidded ones. Remove plants that are toxic to dogs such as Begonias, Chrysanthemums, Daffodils, Daisies, Geraniums, Lilies, Tulips, and Hyacinths.
Safely Introduce the Dog to Your Children
Dogs react in different ways when brought into a new home. Some become anxious, fearful, and even aggressive while others demonstrate excitement and playfulness. Give your new pup time to settle in and remind your children not to force the dog to play or interact.
Set boundaries and make sure your furry friend has a safe space to decompress. Once your new dog becomes accustomed to their new surroundings, you can start introducing it to your children. Ensure that your little ones are sitting down or standing still during the introduction.
Encourage your new furry pup to come to your child, and have them offer a treat. Supervise these initial interactions and be mindful of your dog’s body language. Educate your children on how to interact safely and respectfully with their new pet.
Establish Daily Routines
Similar to children, dogs thrive on routines, as they can help them adjust quickly and feel more secure with their new place and companions. Establish daily schedules for care and feeding. During the first few days or weeks, provide your dog with regular care and attention, and avoid leaving them on their own for long periods.
Endnote
Introducing a new pet to your children requires careful planning, preparation, and patience. With these essential tips, you can efficiently provide a safe, comfortable, and loving home for your new furry family member.
