If you are looking to get a new puppy or older dog, you must be sure that everyone in the family is on board with bringing a new furry animal into the house.
I have run into far too many situations where families or couples have not all wanted to get a dog, which sadly, usually results in the dog getting neglected, not properly guided or brought back. I often suggest pre-pet counseling, as there are several points that need to be considered when bringing a new member into the family.
No matter what type of organization you get your dog from, it can be a 10-18 year commitment, thus a lot of consideration and discussion needs to be had, not only between the adults, but the children too. Like raising children, rules need to be set with the dog and abided by all those in the household.
Inconsistency when raising a dog will only lead to confusion, potentially unruly and undesired behaviors. When everyone is on board with the training, rules of the house, caring for the dog and fulfilling the dogs’ needs, both humans and canines are much happier.
This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.