Are you dreaming of owning a dog, or perhaps you’ve recently added one to your life? These dogs make wonderful companions but also require a lot of work.

We recently asked experienced dog owners for their best tips, and this is what they said:

1. Train Early

Dogs are smart and curious, but they’re not born knowing what you expect from them. Puppy training should start when you bring them home.

It’s easier to begin training a puppy while it's young than to correct bad habits later. Teaching your puppy will also help them grow up to be confident, well-behaved dogs and prevent many problems down the road.

2. Dog Proof Your Home

Dogs are naturally curious, and as puppies, they tend to get into anything they can. Puppy- and dog-proofing your home is important and will help you avoid lots of pain down the road. 

By dog-proofing your home, you'll not only be protecting the things you love, but you’ll also be setting up your dog for success. 

Protect your puppy from accidents, potential vet bills, injuries, and worse.

3. Buy A Good Vacuum

It's very natural that dogs shed year-round and shed their coat once or twice a year. In fact, if dog hair really gets you down, you probably shouldn’t own one. 

However, the shedding is manageable with continued brushing, vacuuming, and sweeping. Just know it will be a constant thing but the work is worth all the love they return.

4. Plan to Brush Often

Invest in a good de-shedding rake and plan to brush your dog weekly. 

The good news is that, aside from lots of brushing, they don’t require much more grooming than the occasional bath with non-drying shampoo, ear cleaning, and nail trimming.

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5. Give Lots of Attention

Dogs are not ornamental pets, content to hang out in the background. They strongly desire to be part of the family and will develop behavior problems when not given the time and attention they need. They are happiest by the side of those they love and with participating family members.

6. Provide Lots of Exercises

Along with needing lots of attention, they are also athletic and need lots of exercise. Fortunately, you can combine these two activities into play and training time. They love to run, fetch balls, and learn new things. 

It really doesn’t matter how you meet their need for exercise as long as you can do it each and every day, rain or shine.

7. Teach Them House Manners

When teaching your dog how you expect them to behave indoors, you must be consistent.  Boundaries and expectations are important for these dogs to learn, but they also provide stability, which builds confidence.

For example, if you don’t want your dog on the furniture, never let them on the furniture.  If you allow your dog to bark when someone is at the door, don’t expect them not to bark at the door. It’s up to you what is permissible, but consistency is the key.