Essential Tips for First-Time Dog Owners

Becoming a pet owner can be a super exciting time in your life. We all know that dogs are humans’ best friends, and for good reason. These loyal companions will rely on you for everything. And at the top of the list? Love and affection.

But we’ll be honest. Being a pet owner comes with big responsibilities. If you don’t know what you are doing, you can quickly end up with a pup who loves to eat shoes and socks for dinner instead of that cuddly, well-behaved pup you thought of in your dreams. 

In this blog post, we’ll share some helpful tips for first-time dog owners. With these things to know as a first-time dog owner, you’ll be on your way to happy and highly rewarding pet parenting.

The Joy of Bringing Home a New Dog 

On the day you welcome your new dog into your home, your life changes forever. You’re no longer just going through life solo. It’s now you and your pup, side by side, through every adventure. 

And you’re in good company. Did you know that 66% of U.S. households, nearly 87 million homes, share life with a pet? Dogs are the most popular choice, so welcome to the club! You’re about to experience the same joy that millions of other families treasure. 

From the instant emotional connection and companionship to the sense of responsibility that adds structure to your day, a dog weaves itself into your routine. Before you know it, they aren’t just a pet. They’re family.

Bringing Home a Puppy vs. an Older Dog 

We’d be remiss if we didn’t tell you that adopting an older dog into your home can be just as rewarding, if not more so, as welcoming a young puppy. But, the experience will be different. That’s why we want to share some tips for new dog owners in general, not just puppy tips for new owners.

Here’s what to expect when you adopt a puppy. 

• Boundless energy that requires lots of playtime and attention

• House training, crate training, and frequent potty breaks

• Teething and chewing (yes, even on your shoes and furniture)

• Socialization with people, pets, and environments to shape behavior

• A clean slate for teaching good habits from the start

If you are bringing home an older dog who has been loved by previous families, you will want to set different expectations for yourself. Here is what you might experience.

• Often calmer temperament and lower energy needs

• May already be house-trained or familiar with basic commands

• Established personality and habits (both good and not-so-good)

• Potential health concerns depending on age and history

• A chance to give a dog a second chance at a loving home

Whether you choose a puppy or an older dog, the thing to understand is that you will need to set realistic expectations based on their age. Puppies will test your patience, while older dogs may take time to adjust, but both journeys can be equally rewarding when approached with love and consistency. And trust us, when you follow these tips for new dog owners, we’re pretty sure you’re next step will be to hang some pet portraits on the wall to commemorate your love for your new furry friend.

Establishing Routines that Your Pup Will Embrace

Just like kids (and many adults), dogs thrive on routines. When they know what to expect and when, they’re more likely to demonstrate favorable behaviors. But when those routines are disrupted frequently, or worse, never put into action, pets can show anxiety and even aggression.

So, one of the biggest tips for a new dog owner that we can offer is to set routines early. Here are some things to keep in mind.

• Feeding, exercise, and potty schedules: Stick to consistent times each day to help your dog know what to expect and reduce accidents or unwanted behaviors.

• Building trust and comfort: Predictable routines create a sense of security, letting your pup relax and feel confident in their new environment.

• Puppies and routines: Young dogs have short attention spans, so repetition and consistency are key to reinforcing good habits.

• Older dogs and routines: Adult dogs may come with established patterns, so patience and gentle redirection are needed as they adapt to new household expectations.

Training and Socialization

Next up in our mini first-time dog owner guide is to discuss the significance of training and socialization for your pup. While it is true that you may have the skills to train your dog yourself, training in a solo environment isn’t always successful as you think it might be. The best way to train a dog consists of multiple approaches. We recommend training with a group of similarly-aged (and possibly similarly sized) pups, followed by reinforcement training at home.

Here is what your pup’s training should focus on.

• Basic obedience: Sit, stay, and come are the building blocks that set the tone for good manners.

• Polite greetings: Teach your dog not to jump up on people. After all, you wouldn’t want them snagging your brand-new custom dog shirt!

• Boundaries at home: Decide early whether your pup is allowed on furniture. If the answer is yes, why not snap a photo of them lounging on the couch next to your custom pet pillow? It might even inspire you to turn the moment into a pet canvas to hang proudly on your wall. This said, if the answer is no, establish that rule right out of the gate with a firm no and offering assistance to your pet to vacate the furniture if they try to make it their haven.

• Social skills: Expose your pup to new people, pets, and environments to help them grow into a confident, well-adjusted companion.

Training is about consistency, patience, and celebrating the little wins. Whether you’re raising a puppy or guiding an older dog, remember that the lessons you teach now will shape your bond for years to come.

Bonding, Health, and Wellness for Your Dog

One of the most rewarding parts of becoming a pet parent is building a strong bond while keeping your dog healthy and happy. If you’re looking for advice for new dog owners, remember that bonding and wellness go hand in hand. When your pup feels cared for, they’ll naturally become your most loyal companion. 

Here are a few simple ways to strengthen your connection and support their well-being.

• Daily exercise: Walks, playtime, or backyard fetch help burn energy and support overall health.

• Plenty of fresh water: Keep clean water accessible at all times.

• Nutritious food and safe treats: Choose a balanced diet designed for your dog’s age and size.

• Avoid human food: Many table scraps can upset digestion or be harmful.

• Quality time together: Cuddles, training, and play sessions build trust and lasting affection.

Advice for New Dog Owners from Crown and Paw

At Crown and Paw, we’re in the business of helping pet owners love their pets. From pet-related merchandise, including decor, apparel, and more, we help make your pet a central part of your home. Want more great tips in how to welcome a pet into your home? Follow the Crown and Paw blog today.