Oct 124 min read

Top 4 Tips for First-Time Dog Parents in India: Desi Edition

A happy family welcoming their new dog home, smiling and excited in a cozy living room. — Welcome home, new best friend! Where every wag is worth the wait.

Embarking on the Journey of Dog Parenthood: What Every New Pet Parent Should Know

Hello, lovely humans! It’s me, J'adore, the four-legged fashion icon and ultimate dog advisor here to sprinkle some canine wisdom your way! Imagine if embarking on dog parenthood could be both fabulous and enlightening—because trust me, it can.

So, gather around, fellow pet aficionados, and let me take you through the essentials of being a fantastic dog parent in India, desi-style, with insights straight from the world of paws and tail wags.

The Basics: What to Consider Before Bringing Home Your Furry Friend (AKA Your New Family Member Who Will Probably Get More Attention Than You)

Time Commitment: Dogs like me aren’t just accessories; we’re family! We need time, attention, and way more love than that new phone of yours. Daily walks, playtime, and training? Yep, those are essentials. Research from the American Kennel Club says we need 1-2 hours of dedicated time each day [1]. It’s less than the time you’d spend watching a cricket match, so no slacking!
Financial Responsibility: Barking about responsibility here! From food to our fabulous vet bills, dogs are an investment. According to the ASPCA, pet costs in the U.S. average between $1,000 to $2,000 in the first year [2]. Here in India, that translates to about ₹20,000 to ₹80,000 depending on the size and type of pup you adopt. A lot of biryanis, I know! But those tail wags? Priceless.
Living Space: If your place is so cozy you can cook, binge-watch, and brush your teeth without moving, consider your dog breed wisely. I may look fabulous in small spaces, but a Great Dane might find it cramped. The American Kennel Club offers great insights on breeds suited for apartment living [3].
Lifestyle Match: Your vibe attracts your tribe—same goes for dogs. If you’re a high-energy person, think of getting a high-energy dog like a Border Collie. Prefer cozy Netflix marathons? Bulldogs are chill and perfect for a relaxed lifestyle [4].

Essential Education for New Dog Parents (AKA How to Not Be a Total Newbie)

Basic Training: Teach your dog commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." Trust me; it’s for everyone’s sanity. A “leave the chappal alone” command will serve you well, too! Studies show positive reinforcement works wonders [5]. Just have treats ready.
Socialization: Socialization is vital! It helps us get used to everything from pressure cookers to that aunty with boundary issues. The key window is between 3 to 16 weeks, as research indicates [6]. Early social experiences help us become well-adjusted adults. This means introducing us to everything from noisy pressure cookers to overly enthusiastic aunties!
Health Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care? They’re a must! The World Small Animal Veterinary Association recommends core vaccinations for healthy pups like me [7]. Remember, a healthy dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog means fewer "my dog ate my homework" excuses!
Nutrition: Let’s talk chow. Leftover parathas don’t make a balanced diet (sorry, folks!). Consult with a vet for age, size, and breed-appropriate nutrition [8]. And remember, not every treat needs to come from the table.
Exercise Needs: Move it or lose it, people! Dogs need regular exercise for both physical and mental health. The amount depends on the breed—an active Husky needs way more activity than a chill Shih Tzu [9]. So, lace up and join us, even if it’s just a trot to the fridge!

Why We Started The Barkology Club (Because Someone Had to Save India's Dogs from Becoming Couch Potatoes)

Now, here’s where things get exciting! The Barkology Club, was created for awesome pet parents like you who want to stay informed and keep their pups thriving. Our mission? To give you top-notch advice on everything from nutrition to behaviour, saving you from your neighbour’s “well-meaning” advice.

Staying informed on your pet's needs doesn’t have to be a snooze-fest. Stick around! We'll make you laugh, maybe teach you a thing or two, and help you keep your pup happy and healthy.

Ready to Start Your Pawsome Journey?

Each dog is unique, and discovering your new friend’s personality is part of the adventure. We promise this path is filled with wet noses, wagging tails, and maybe a chewed slipper or two. So, stick around and help us make India a dog-loving nation, one pawprint at a time. Because in a country where cows are sacred, isn’t it time dogs got their moment too?

How Can You Trust This Information?

This article is based on guidelines from trusted organizations and contains references wherever applicable from sources such as:

[1] American Kennel Club. (2021). "How Much Exercise Does a Dog Need Every Day?"

[2] ASPCA. (2022). "Pet Care Costs."

[3] American Kennel Club. (2022). "The Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living."

[4] Coren, S. (2011). "Do All Dogs Need the Same Amount of Exercise?" Psychology Today.

[5] Ziv, G. (2017). "The Effects of Using Aversive Training Methods in Dogs—A Review." Journal of Veterinary Behavior.

[6] Howell, T.J., King, T., & Bennett, P.C. (2015). "Puppy parties and beyond: the role of early age socialization practices on adult dog behavior." Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports.

[7] Day, M.J., et al. (2016). "WSAVA Guidelines for the vaccination of dogs and cats." Journal of Small Animal Practice.

[8] Freeman, L.M., et al. (2013). "WSAVA Nutritional Assessment Guidelines." Journal of Small Animal Practice.

[9] Byers, C.G., et al. (2019). "Exercise and Physical Rehabilitation in Canine Degenerative Myelopathy." Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

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Welcome to The Barkology Club! Ready to welcome a furry friend into your life? Our latest post dives deep into dog parenthood—tailored for first-time pet parents in India. From understanding the time commitment and financial responsibilities to choosing the right breed for your lifestyle, this guide covers top 4 Tips for First-Time Dog Parents in India