When you first get a dog, you only focus on the good - you dream of long walks or plays in the park or just snuggling on the couch. Challenges will pop up as time goes on, making you feel disheartened, but you can overcome them.
These are some of the challenges of owning a dog that friends of mine have come across, and how they overcame them.
Travel can be More Complicated
Travel is no longer as simple as booking, packing and leaving. Still, it also doesn't need to be that complicated either. With a dog, you have to also consider the pup when you plan your next adventure.
You could choose to take your pup with you somewhere in Australia, there are plenty of dog-friendly adventures right here at home.
Alternatively, you can find a pet sitter or boarding facility that will love them and care for them whilst you relax on your holiday.
Struggling with Leaving them Alone
No matter what your circumstances, there are going to be times, you'll have to leave your pup home alone. This may cause your pup extra anxiety if they aren't used to it, and they'll express this by destroying things or trying to escape your yard.
The best way to overcome this is to get your pup used to being alone gradually, start with a short trip to the shops for 20 mins and then build up to a couple of hours or a whole day. You can also utilise things like treat dispensing toys to keep them occupied whilst you're out of the house to lower their stress levels.
Giving Them the Exercise they Need
When you first get a dog, you're all excited and committed to ensuring that they get more than enough exercise each day. As time progresses, life sometimes gets in the way. Not all dogs need the same amount of activity, so you should make sure you know what’s recommended for your pup.
If your circumstances change and you're worried you won't exercise your pup enough, there are options to help. You can hire a dog walker to take them out once or twice a week to help cover the times you may not be able to.
You can also look into ways to stimulate their brains with games or training or other fun activities you can do at home.
Even a game of tug in your lounge room will help give your dog some much-needed stimulation.
No matter the challenge before you even consider giving away a dog, look online to see how others have overcome the challenges of owning a dog for support and ideas.
