Tips for Single Dog Owners to Make Life Easier
By: Kay Carter | May 28, 2019
Having a pet is one of life’s greatest joys, but it can also be a lot of work, especially if you’re raising a pet on your own. Without the help of a partner, the responsibility can begin to feel a little overwhelming. Here are a few tips to make your life as a single dog owner that much easier.
Training Time
One of the biggest obstacles for any single pet parent is managing bad behavior. Whether your pet is a rescue or from a breeder, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to do a bit of work to make sure you and your pet are on the same page. Setting aside just 10 minutes a day to work on some obedience training can make a major difference in the quality of life for everyone.
A Consistent Schedule
Dogs, like humans, benefit from having a regular schedule. One of the major guiding factors of a dog’s life is its sleep schedule. When and how your dog sleeps can tell you a lot about its health, so if you’ve never paid attention to this before, now is a good time to start.
In a similar vein, it’s helpful to enforce a consistent daily routine. Scheduling regular walking and feeding times will help keep your pet at ease, so they know when to expect the most highly anticipated activities of the day. This will make life easier for both of you.
A Comfortable Bed
There’s nothing quite like sleeping in your own bed and your furry friend probably feels the same way. Your pet will be much more at ease with a bed they love to cozy into. According to House Method, creating a comfortable space for your pet is a great way to keep them calm while you’re away. If you have a puppy, consider placing them in a crate or small penned area. With adequate water, a toy, and a soft place to rest, they’ll be right at home even when you’re not present.
The Right Cleaning Supplies
Of course, even the most vigilant pet parent may encounter an accident in the house. This is especially true if your pet is young and still learning the ropes of potty training—having the right cleaning supplies to remove each mess is essential. An enzyme-based cleaner is your best bet for removing any odours that may attract your pet to soil again in that spot. Your furniture and carpets will thank you.
KONG Toys for Long Days
In an ideal world, you would be able to spend endless amounts of time with your pet. However, the reality is that you likely need to work or spend time out of the house. This means that your dog is going to be on its own. Many dogs—like those who haven’t learned to respect furniture, clothes, and other items—may find themselves foraging through the house, leaving a trail of destruction behind them. With a Kong toy, you can satisfy your dog’s natural instinct to “work” for its food, while also keeping it occupied during longer stretches of separation.
Many people may say that being a single pet parent is an impossible task but, rest assured, it doesn’t have to be that way. By keeping these tips in mind, you can make life easier for you and your four-legged loved one.
Disclaimer: healthcareforpets.com and its team of veterinarians and clinicians do not endorse any products, services, or recommended advice. All advice presented by our veterinarians, clinicians, tools, resources, etc is not meant to replace a regular physical exam and consultation with your primary veterinarian or other clinicians. We always encourage you to seek medical advice from your regular veterinarian.
