Are you a self-proclaimed dog mom? Having a dog can be a fun experience that brings you joyous memories for years to come.
There is just one thing. It is a lot of work! Taking care of a dog takes dedication and education.
So, if you are looking to learn a little more about how you can take care of your dog, you came to the right place.
Read on to discover answers to every dog mom’s questions.
What Kind Of Dog Food Should I Get?
Whether you are a first-time dog mom or a seasoned parent, this is a valid question. Their health is similar to that of humans.
They need balanced meals that are nutritional and good for them in specific ways. Each dog will be a little bit different, but a good rule of thumb is to start with all-natural air dried dog food.
Can I Overfeed My Dog?
The short answer is yes. Dogs will eat if food is given to them, so you are on the right track by asking this question.
Depending on the size and activity level of the dog, their best portion size may vary.
A good start is on one cup for small dogs, two cups for medium-sized dogs, and three cups for larger dogs if they can be active every day.
How Often Should I Take Them For a Walk?
Depending on the health and energy of your dog, your walks with them could look drastically different.
Outside of the typical small walks to go potty, many dogs can enjoy 30 minutes to 2 hours worth of walking every day. For more information, research the breed of your dog.
What Things Should I Get For Them?
Are you looking to have fun with your dog? You can get them all sorts of things like toys, treats they will love, and stuff that will help you spend time with them.
Here are a couple of examples.
Swim Gear
Do you go swimming often? Whether in a lake or a pool, your dog can only swim with you for so long.
When they get tired, they have to return to the shallow area, it honestly can be the most heartbreaking thing to watch them wait for you to come closer. So, get them a float.
There are plenty of cute dog pool floats you can choose from.
Whether you want a yacht, rainbow, or plane, you just have to choose.
On top of giving them the option to float next to you, be sure to get them a couple of balls to chase into the pool and a good towel for when you both are done.
BarkBox
BarkBox is a subscription that many dog moms get for their beloved pets.
This subscription comes every month with new toys and treats that are appropriately themed to the season or related holidays. It is a fun way to keep things fresh for your dog and you.
What Should I Get For Myself?
Having a dog is fun, but it is not easy.
So, there are a few things you should get for yourself to help you handle all of the walks and look cute while doing it.
Nice Walking Shoes
Do you own a pair of nice walking shoes? If not, you may want to hop on that soon, especially if you have an overactive breed like Huskies or Australian Shepherds.
Those breeds need to be outside and exercising a lot.
This may be a great thing for you. Just be sure your feet and legs are taken care of.
Dog Mom Apparel
Being a dog mom is a year-round job. Meaning that you will have to go on plenty of walks out in the cold, rain, and snow.
For these occasions, you should pick up a dog mom sweatshirt to keep you nice and warm, as well as show how proud you are of your canine child.
Cute Leashes
If you are a fan of being stylish, do not let that stop with your dog.
Dogs often begin to adapt personalities similar to their human’s, so lean into that. Get them a cute leash and collar that fits both of your personalities.
That way you both will feel good and look good as you stroll up to the dog park.
Sheets
Last but certainly not least, get yourself a nice set of bedsheets. If you treat your dog right, they will love you unconditionally for as long as they live.
Meaning that if you get in bed, they will most likely follow. While it is so cute having your dog in bed with you, it can ruin sheets and make them incredibly dirty.
So get durable sheets that are comfortable and that fight bacteria.
How Long Can They Be Outside?
Dogs are resilient and love to have fun. This makes taking them outside somewhat dangerous if you are not paying attention.
If the weather is temperate and lies somewhere between 55 and 85 degrees, they will be okay with spending up to about three hours outside with water.
On the other hand, if the weather is above or below those points, you should keep outings at about 20 minutes or less.
How Often Should I Groom Them?
This can depend greatly on the type of coat your dog has, but it is good practice to brush your dog once or twice a week.
Bathing it once every four to six weeks should be good unless it has any encounters with the dreaded mud puddles.
Can I Feed Them Human Food?
Human foods often are too rich, contain too much sodium, and have too much fat for dogs’ stomachs to properly digest.
Meaning that it will often cause them to have diarrhea, vomit, or potentially worse. It is best to keep their diet strict with all-natural dog food.
The Takeaway
Being a dog mom is hard work. You have to make sure they eat right, exercise, stay groomed, and live a happy life.
While it is hard work, having a companion that will love you unconditionally is well worth it.
So keep asking questions and learning how to best take care of your little companion.