Adopting a dog is a process involving paperwork and research. Dogs are not just for fun, they’re a huge responsibility. When you adopt one, you take charge of caring and raising them.
Different breeds have different needs, and the more you know, the smoother your dog-raising experience will be. However, there’s a lot of information out there, and all of it isn’t true. With that in mind, don’t buy into these 5 myths:
- A Dog Year is Equal to Seven Human Years
When adopting a dog, you ought to know that their lifespan depends on their breed, size, and other factors. For example, larger dogs, like Labradors or English Mastiffs, live 7 to 10 years on average. In contrast, smaller dogs, like Chihuahuas or Beagles, can live up to 18 years.
- Dogs Eat Grass when they’re Sick
This myth has built up layers upon it. Not only is it a common misconception that dogs do this when they’re sick, many speculate on how grass remedies their sickness. Some say dogs eat grass to vomit. Others say grass has nutrients that most dog food doesn’t. In all likelihood, however, dogs just think grass tastes nice. Unless there’s something wrong with your grass, you shouldn’t worry if you see your dog eating it.
- Shelter Dogs are in Shelters because they were Bad Pets
Dogs are seldom given up to shelters because they disrupt life at home. This myth ignores the bevy of reasons for which dogs are given up. Often, dire financial straits may make caring for a dog too expensive.
In extreme circumstances, people may have to move into smaller homes, which often disallow pets. If you’re still not convinced, there’s definitely a dog in your local shelter that’ll change your mind.
- Shelter Dogs have more Health Issues than Breeder Dogs
Like the previous point, shelter dogs are also not in shelters because they were or are unhealthy. Shelter dogs tend to be mixed breeds, which buttresses their resistance to genetic diseases, like cancer. Moreover, shelters treat the problems of all their dogs and make sure they are vaccinated and spayed or neutered before going up for adoption.
- You can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks
Training senior dogs is more difficult that training puppies. However, their lack of response to teaching is not because they cannot learn, nor is it because they dislike their owners. Senior dogs can be very loving compatriots and are willing to learn.
However, as dogs get older, their senses and joints begin to deteriorate. If they’re unwilling to learn something, it may be because what they’re learning causes them pain, or the just can’t do it.
If you’re still anxious about making mistakes after adopting, let us help you with the first few steps. From puppies to seniors, our dog daycare will help socialize your dog and make sure both of you have a peaceful and comfortable home life.
If you do adopt a senior dog, you ought to send them to our pet resort in Indio, CA. We’ll give them a therapeutic reprieve from their aches and pains. Contact us, and we’ll help you live the ideal dog-owner life!
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