If you’re thinking about adopting a puppy for the first time, there’s A LOT to consider beyond how cute and adorable they are: It’s also a really big commitment - anywhere from 12-18 years, to be exact - so it’s not a decision to make lightly or impulsively.
Remember, dogs are living, breathing, accident-prone, attention-seeking, and veterinarian-going pets that need daily care and engagement in order to be happy!
That’s why, first and foremost, we recommend that you consider whether or not you are actually ready for the time, energy, and financial commitment of having a puppy before inviting one into your home.
The reason being that - unless you have a ready and willing attitude - a cute puppy can turn your life upside down pretty quick once you realize taking care of your little furball is pretty much a full-time job.
So, if you’ve been dreaming of becoming a full-fledged dog owner, we support you all the way! But, we DO encourage you to be 100% sure that you are 1000% ready for the commitment BEFORE you bring a new puppy home, and below are the main things to keep in mind before making the leap.
Be Sure You Have the Time and Energy for a Puppy
Caring for a new puppy requires time and effort, along with mental and physical energy. While some dogs are more independent than others, most puppies need a lot of attention and quality time with their owners.
Potty Training Can Take Up to a Year
Housebreaking a puppy can take anywhere from 6-12 weeks just to help your puppy figure out where you want them to go potty, and then you will need to reinforce where the potty is for up to a year before you can be sure your puppy is fully potty trained. A puppy needs to go without an accident indoors for a full three months before you can designate them as “potty trained.”
You’ll also need to pen and crate train your pup to keep them out of trouble and prevent them from having potty accidents when you can’t watch them, which requires investing in the proper equipment (see below for more details about what equipment you will need).
Puppy Training and Socialization
You’ll want to spend ample time bonding with and training your pet—especially when it’s adjusting to a new home. We recommend setting up a schedule that includes regular playtime and downtime periods throughout the day that helps a puppy adjust to your daily routine.
Early puppy socialization that takes place between the ages of 3 weeks to 4 months of age is an important component of any foundational puppy training program because it can determine how well your puppy adapts to whatever environment they will be living in.
Training also plays a significant role in getting to know your dog, setting up boundaries, and developing good habits early on. Some puppies may require more training and socialization than others. Anxious dogs, for instance, might need more help getting acclimated to new and unfamiliar people and places, and working dog breeds may need more intensive training in order to satisfy their need for activity and social engagement.
Getting Help: Hiring a Dog Trainer
If you’re a little rusty or straight up don’t know how to train a dog, then you might consider hiring a professional private dog trainer to help you learn the ropes. For best results, we recommend choosing a trainer that uses positive methods that incorporate the use of behavior management tools like crates, pens, and confinement areas that keep your puppy out of trouble and prevent bad habits from developing.
Purchase the Right Equipment
While clearing the shelves at your local pet store can be tempting, you’ll want to stick to the essentials. Below are a few staples that will make introducing a puppy to the family even more seamless.
Pet Bed, Crate, and Pens
Every dog will benefit from a dedicated space they can use to nap, nestle, and play. When shopping for a pet bed, think about your dog’s size and personality. Naturally, larger dogs will require larger beds, while avid chewers will need a sturdier cushion.
Plush, fabric beds with raised sides are designed to conduct heat, so if you live somewhere warm like Los Angeles, you may consider getting your dog an elevated dog bed that allows airflow underneath. If you adopt a dog prone to hip dysplasia, weak joints, or bone deficiencies, consider purchasing a bed with support.
Feeding Bowls
There are more things to consider when purchasing a dog bowl than you might anticipate. For instance, the appropriate bowl height can keep your dog from straining its neck and developing physical conditions such as arthritis.
You also want to purchase an appropriately-sized bowl made without toxic materials such as cheap dyes or paint. Slow feeders are designed to aid digestion by slowing down chowhounds like Labradors or Retrievers who gobble down their food too fast.
Dog Food
What dog food your purchase will depend on your specific breed’s nutritional requirements. When shopping for dog food, you’ll want to consider a brand rich in essential vitamins and minerals, joint-enhancing ingredients such as glucosamine, coat-retaining inclusions like DHA, and high-quality animal proteins.
Dogs with sensitive stomachs will benefit from grain-free foods, while dogs prone to obesity should be on a lower-calorie diet.
Outdoor Accessories
You’ll want to take your dog for a walk at least once a day. To do that, you’ll need a collar, leash, and harness. If you’re adopting a larger breed, nylon-made materials can sustain heavier bodies.
Contrary to popular belief, walking your dog for the first time is more challenging than you might anticipate? Click here to learn how to leash and harness a new puppy.
Other must-haves you’ll want to throw into your shopping cart are:
A dog tag with your details, in case your dog becomes lost.
A crate for when you’re traveling with your pet.
Walking shoes to protect your dog’s paws if you live in a warmer climate.
Grooming accessories such as a brush and nail clipper.
Dog Toys and Chews
Toys can keep your dog happy and entertained when you’re busy or away from home. If you have a dog that loves to chew, you might consider robust rubber toys that are durable and long-lasting.
Dogs that are easily mentally stimulated might enjoy puzzles or play feeders. Otherwise, a handy ball or frisbee should satisfy any dog.
The Best Size, Breed, and Temperament for Your Particular Lifestyle
When it comes to selecting a breed, you’ll want to consider your living situation and daily activities. Do you have a yard? Do you frequent the outdoors or prefer spending time at home? Are you a regular traveler or enjoy having friends over? All of these preferences will dictate what type of dog best suits your home.
Active Breeds
If you consider yourself an outdoor adventurer, you’ll want to adopt a dog that can keep up with your activity levels. Avid hikers, swimmers, or campers will love having an Australian Shepherd or Labrador Retriever by their side.
Do you love a daily run? If so, you might consider a Greyhound or Beagle. Outdoorsmen should avoid breeds with shorter legs—these include Dachshunds and Chihuahuas.
Companion Breeds
Do you love winding down in front of the television after an arduous day at work? If so, consider adopting a smaller, non-sporting breed like a Maltese or French Bulldog that is happy to lay around most of the day or older rescue dogs that have had a chance to mellow out. These lower-energy and older dogs don’t require as much exercise as their frisbee-fetching counterparts—though you will need to keep an eye on their diet!
Make Sure a Puppy Suits Your Budget
It should go without saying that adopting a puppy is an investment. Beyond its initial needs, you’ll have to budget accordingly for annual vet visits, emergency medication, travel costs, grooming, and more.
If you’re on a budget, dogs that require additional grooming can break the bank. Instead, consider a shorthaired pet that requires minimal maintenance.
Don’t hesitate to spend a few dollars puppy-proofing your home by incorporating couch covers or corner protectors.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, adopting a puppy for the first time isn’t a decision you should take lightly. If you are adopting a pet for the family, make sure you get everyone involved in the decision-making process and prepare your home in advance.
Adopting a dog is both an exciting and daunting process. Being well-prepared can go a long way for you and your new friend. For more on how to prepare your household for the arrival of your long-awaited canine, click through to this guide.
About the Author
Mike Powell is a dog enthusiast, expert, and founder of Dog Embassy. He aims to provide accessible resources on training, care, nutrition, and gear.