Puppy Education

• Tweet

• Tweet

House hunting when you own a dog can be a challenge. Your home must accommodate your dog’s needs as well as your own. You’ll also need to keep him safe while you move and help him adjust to relocating. Let’s take a look at what you can do to make sure that your dog is as happy as you are in your new home.

Selecting the Right Home with Your Dog in Mind

It all begins with choosing the right house that fits your family, your budget, and your dog. Here’s what you should consider:

Find the Right Realtor

From the very first step, you want to make sure your realtor has plenty of experience with selling homes to dog owners. Better yet, find one who has a dog. Of course, even that might not be enough. Rhona Sutter, president of Pet Protect, says a realtor should be knowledgeable about local pet ordinances and other rules that apply to your dog. “Also, when out looking at homes, listen for mentions of local pet amenities instead of just, ‘Great home, great price, must move quickly,'” she says.

Pick the Location Carefully

Make that you can comply with all homeowners association, apartment, or other rules and local ordinances regarding dogs. Conveniences can be important too. A nearby veterinarian can be crucial in emergencies, and pet stores and grooming shops will be helpful. While it might not be at the top of your mind, a nearby dog park can be an enticing feature too!

However, be aware that your dog can be in danger if he gets loose around a busy street. Always keep his safety in mind, and invest in things that have safety in mind. While a good fence can keep him from escaping, look into getting a GPS pet tracker just in case he manages to get free.

The Living Space Your Dog Needs

Every dog loves a backyard, but what size yard does yours need? Do you need a fence? Is the house itself big enough? If you have a puppy, you’ll need to consider how big he’ll grow – or not, depending on the breed. Michelle Christie, corporate affairs manager for Royal Canin South Africa says certain medium to large dogs, like bulldogs, can do well in smaller spaces.

Think About The Future

It’s also wise to consider future needs. What if his leg is injured? What will we do when he is elderly? You can buy a two-story home, but you should map out what you’ll do for your pet if he can no longer climb the stairs.

Other Pets

Local animals and pets can also play a key factor. Are there predators living nearby? Also, find out if the previous owner had a pet. Pets can leave behind dander, bacteria, fleas, and ticks, so clean and exterminate beforehand.

Helping Your Dog Adjust To His New Home

There are a few things you can do to make sure your dog is comfortable and happy with his new home.

• Packing and relocating will stress out your pet. Take time to prepare him by getting him used to packed boxes and your new area, little by little.
• Moving day is difficult for any pet. Make sure he is safe. You may want to leave him with a friend to ensure he does not get lost with all the open doors. Make sure to tire out your dog before the big move with a long walk.
• Create a space just for your dog. Load it with his toys, blankets, and bed.
• Give him a special treat and show him love — even after a tiring moving day. After all, you are his best source of comfort.
• Help him acclimate by keeping the food and water bowls in a similar area as the previous house.
• Don’t wash any of his blankets, beds, or toys as the old smells are comforting.

Your dog is more than just a companion — he’s a member of the family. Put his needs next to yours when buying a new home.