Adding a dog to your household can bring your family a lot of joy. Maybe you’re taking in a puppy from a neighbor or adopting a senior dog from the local animal shelter. Naturally, you want to make your home as inviting to your pet as possible. Check out some easy things you can do to accomplish this goal.
Select a Comfortable Dog Bed
Most dogs sleep at least 12 to 14 hours per day. So, why not get a comfortable bed (Check this site) your dog can snuggle into at any time of the day or night? Having a dog bed available to your canine can make it feel right at home. Plus, it may keep your dog from trying to sleep in your bed with you.
Size is one of the most important things to consider when selecting a bed for your pup. It’s best to get a bed that accommodates your dog’s body with a few inches of extra space. That way, your dog has room to turn around and find a relaxing position.
A dog bed with a fleece cover is soft and easy to clean. An ideal dog bed has a solid, non-slip base and a soft, plushy top your dog can burrow into.
Dog beds are available in many shapes including oval, square, rectangle, octagon, and circle. You may want one that echoes the look of your own furniture. Or perhaps you have a go-to brand for pet supplies. No matter the shape, a durable dog bed can be a comforting item for your beloved pet.
Install a Doggy Door
A doggy door gives your dog independence to move from inside your home to the yard whenever it wants to. If you have a door in your kitchen that leads out into your backyard, then installing a doggy door there would be a smart idea. Or, if you have another door in a family room or mudroom that leads outside, a doggy door would be a welcome addition.
When choosing a doggy door to install in your home, be sure to look for one that’s appropriate in size for your dog. After all, you don’t want your Golden retriever trying to fit through a doggy door meant for a miniature poodle!
Another thing to factor into your choice is a lock. Some doggy doors have a lock in their design while others require the purchase of a separate lock or latch. A lock gives you peace of mind about the security of your home. For instance, you may lock the doggy door if you need to board your dog at a kennel and go out of town.
Install an Invisible Fence
Installing an invisible fence is another way you can make your home more inviting to your dog. You can install an invisible fence like those found here all around your property as a way to keep your dog safe if you live on a busy street. Or you can install one in your backyard if your dog likes to spend a lot of time there.
One of the best things about an invisible fence is you can keep your dog safe while not having to build a fence that would detract from the appearance of your property.
Get a Dog Pool
Chances are, you’ve seen those plastic pools for kids sitting outside your local big box or home improvement store. Well, kids aren’t the only ones who like to splash around in these pools. Dogs like to splash around in them too!
This is especially true for water-loving dogs such as Labrador retrievers, poodles, Golden retrievers, Newfoundlands, and Spanish water dogs, among others. Even if you have a dog that only wants to get its paws wet, a plastic pool in your yard can give it the refreshment it needs on a hot day.
As a note, if you do get a dog pool, be sure to empty the water each day especially if your dog has paddled in the water. Over time, dog hair, dirt and other debris can stain the inside of your pool making it look dingy. Also, avoid letting the water stand for several days without emptying it. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in the water creating a problem with them on your property.
Get a Doghouse
Maybe you plan to keep your dog inside your home most of the time. Even so, having a doghouse in your yard is a good idea. If you want your dog to spend some time outside on an especially breezy or hot day, a doghouse can provide the shelter it needs to remain comfortable.
You can put an old cushion inside your doghouse along with one of its favorite toys so it can have some relaxing outdoor time. Your dog can spend a few hours exploring your yard and even napping in the fresh air.
Choosing a doghouse is a fun process because there are so many interesting designs. You may want a doghouse in a particular color that complements the exterior of your home or maybe one with a unique design. Dog houses are available in plastic or wood with roofs in different styles. You are no longer limited to a traditional doghouse.
Choose a Few Favorite Dog Toys
While some dog owners have a box overflowing with dog toys, most dogs have just a few go-to toys they play with. A tennis ball, a rope bone, a squeaky ball, or a small stuffed animal are all traditional favorites with dogs. Try one or two toys to see what your dog chooses. That way, you can have a few toys around your home that your dog picks up.
Lastly, you don’t have to go to a lot of trouble or expense to make your home inviting to your new dog or puppy. Adding just a few things can help your dog feel like a true member of the family!
