Thinking about having a new dog? If you already had a dog before you probably know what is waiting for you. On the other hand, if this is your first dog, then you will be very surprised at how complicated that actually is.

There are probably dozens of things, but we will give you some of the most important ones, so you can be ready. You really don’t want to face unexpected problems as you go, because that can be very frustrating and become much more complicated than it actually is, and worst of all, it can have a negative effect on the relationship you are building with the dog.

First of all you need to know that dogs take up a lot of time and energy. If you are not dedicated enough, you probably won’t have the dog you wanted. Consider which breeds are suitable for your home, your environment and the time you are willing and able to dedicate to your new friend. If you live alone and spend most of your time at work, your dog is not going to be happy all alone, so you should consider investing in a dog walker.

If you decide to have a puppy you need to get it vaccinated and spayed or neutered as soon as possible. Another thing that is a must is getting health insurance. Talk about this with your veterinarian and ask him for recommendations. You also need to take your dog for routine checkups, since the dog can’t tell you when something is wrong, and sometimes it is really hard to notice – though the dog’s mood has always been a go-to indicator of physical well-being for owners.

Now, when it comes to your dog’s space, there are a lot of things it needs. A huge backyard is like heaven to dogs. A lot of space where they can run, roll and play. You should adapt it to his needs. Put toys and things he can chew on all over the place. You can even make him some sort of polygon and teach him how to cross it, rewarding him afterwards. Don’t forget to protect your precious plants, and forget about gardening for the first month or so – dogs are notorious (non)assistants in the yard. Your beloved pooch will dig up your beloved plants, and this is a cold hard fact.

He also needs a place to sleep. Is he going to be outside in a dog house or you will allow him to sleep inside on a doggy bed? It is up to you, but you do need to provide him with some space where he will feel safe and consider it as his.

Now, here is a basic list of dog supplies you will need to provide:

Beside your dog’s food, you need to get some food and water bowls, of course. Then there are all kinds of toys and chewables, since dogs love chewing on things, and you definitely don’t want it to be your furniture. An ID tag is essential for taking your dog outside, as well as a collar and lead. Engrave as much information as you can on your dog’s tag, in case he gets lost. You also need a grooming kit, which varies, depending on the breed. Together with that kit, you would want to get cleaning supplies like shampoo, a poop scoop and poop bags. (Collecting doggie waste is your new life, welcome aboard, and don’t worry, it’s only horrible the first few times)

Consider arming up on pet supplies and food before the dog ever comes home, so that you won’t find yourself running to a pet shop and back every day for the first couple of weeks.

All of this might sound a lot and a bit frightening, but you need to accept your dog as a part of your family with same needs as any other human. Once you do that, you will feel a real connection with it, and realize why dogs are man’s best friend.