New legislation granting tenants the right to keep pets has prompted many prospective animal owners to consider bringing a dog into their homes. Experts are urging new owners to carefully prepare to ensure a positive experience for both owner and pet.

Dave Martin, director of animal welfare at Inspiring Vet Care, emphasizes the importance of selecting a dog breed that aligns with an owner’s lifestyle. Prospective owners should research breed characteristics and reputable breeders before committing to a pet. Equally important is evaluating the living environment, including factors such as noise levels, potential hazards, and availability of outdoor space. Dogs require consistent attention, time, and structured routines to thrive.

Veterinary care is another critical aspect of responsible ownership. Owners are advised to register their pets with a veterinarian soon after adoption to schedule health check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative treatments for fleas and worms. Discussions around neutering should also be part of the initial consultation.

Socialization and routine training play vital roles in a dog’s development, particularly for puppies. Owners should gradually expose their dogs to various people, places, and experiences to build confidence and reduce anxiety. Establishing clear boundaries, combined with positive reinforcement such as treats and praise, helps promote desirable behaviors. Toilet training and “puppy-proofing” the home can reduce accidents and prevent pets from ingesting harmful or valuable items.

One of the common behavioral challenges faced by dog owners is separation anxiety. Symptoms may include excessive howling, barking, destructive activities, or inappropriate toileting when the dog is left alone. To address this, Agria Pet Insurance recently launched a podcast series, Telling Tails, which offers expert advice from animal behaviorist Hannah Molloy. She recommends gradually acclimating dogs to being alone, beginning with short absences and slowly increasing the duration. Molloy also underscores the importance of maintaining consistent daily routines and being patient as each dog adjusts at its own pace.

Additionally, Molloy advises owners to make departure signals clear rather than leaving unnoticed, helping dogs to anticipate and cope with the owner’s absence. For persistent or severe cases, canine behavior specialists can provide tailored support and intervention.

Dog enthusiasts can also look forward to Dogstival, a two-day event held May 30 and 31 at Burley Park in the New Forest. The festival offers numerous activities for dogs including a large foam party, pop-up beach, flyball, stand-up paddle boarding, a skate park, and an adventure playground. Other attractions include sausage-making and painting sessions designed for dogs. Owners can participate in dog-themed quizzes and bingo and browse more than 130 vendor stalls. Tickets start at £10, and further information is available at dogstival.co.uk.