Cover photo via Pexels
Younger people nowadays are waiting longer to get married and have kids to start a family. However, that doesn’t mean they are without companionship. According to Adweek, 44 percent of millennials ages 20-36 see their pets as starter children. In fact, these young adults are influenced by their dog’s needs when buying a new home.
Home Size vs Dog Size
Most people adopt a dog with a size that is compatible for their current living situation. Larger dogs and active breeds typically need more space around the house along with a backyard where they can run around and play. Smaller dogs don’t need as much room and several breeds are great at apartment living. When picking out your dog, you most likely took these things into consideration when choosing your particular canine companion.
However, sometimes a dog’s needs will change. For instance, as some pups age they begin to develop mobility issues. While Fido may have been a spritely in his youth, the prospect of climbing too many stairs may make his joints ache as he gets older. Or, say you adopted a tiny puppy thinking you had enough room in your place only for it to grow into a behemoth big boy. Searching for a new home gives you the opportunity to get a place with the right amount of room for your dog.
Amenities Galore
Since millennials see their precious pups like children, they tend to spoil them as well. Finding a home in a neighborhood or area that features plenty of dog amenities means they can lavish their pets with the attention. Beyond businesses being dog-themed, young people are also more conscious about spending their money at local stores.
Things to look for:
- Doggy daycare and boarding facilities
- Pup wash stations and groomers
- Walking trails with waste receptacles
- Dog-friendly patios
- Dog parks
- Pet boutiques
- Bakeries that feature dog treats
- Local pet shops
Introducing Your Dog to Their New Home
Once you’ve found the best place for you and your dog to live, it’s important to be cautious about how you introduce them to their new place. Dogs fear change and love the familiar. Being moved to a new environment without notice can cause anxieties that lead to problem behaviors including destroying your items and marking territory indoors. To help ease the transition, be there with your dog as he explores the new digs and sniffs around. It’s OK to spend a little extra time on his first day playing and bonding in the new space, but as soon as you can get your pup back on his regular routine. The sooner you get back to feeding, walking, leaving and coming home at the same times as you used to, the sooner he will feel things are back to normal.
More tips for introducing your dog to a new home:
- Update tags and microchip information before the move
- Check to house for hazards and escape routes
- Have his bed and bowls set up in a comfortable space
- If you are moving to a new city or town, set up an introductory appointment with the new
veterinarian - Learn new outdoor hazards if in a new region
- Bring your dog along to meet neighbors
For young people especially, a canine companion is like a child. When searching for a new home, it’s important to keep your dog’s needs in mind. Pick a place appropriate in size: Large and active breed dogs need plenty of space and a backyard. Smaller breeds and older dogs do better in more compact spaces. When thinking of a location, check for local amenities that will help you as a dog parent. Finally, take time slowly introduce your dog to the new home but get back on their schedule as soon as possible to encourage adjustment.
Jessica Brody
ourbestfriends.pet