Dogs are our best friends, and many pet owners get a dog for companionship — but if it’s your first time, it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure what to prepare. To give your dog a comfortable and healthy environment, preparation beforehand and proper care afterward are both essential.

Here’s everything you need to prepare before getting your first dog!

【Mental preparation and self-assessment】

Before getting any pet, you should honestly assess whether you’re ready — including your finances and the opinions of people around you. Here are a few key things to consider.

1. Does your family or landlord agree?

If you live with family, you’ll need everyone’s consent. If someone objects, take a step back and think about whether now is really the right time. If you’re renting, make sure to check with your landlord before bringing a dog home!

2. Do you have the financial means?

Owning a dog comes with ongoing costs — food, vet care, toys, and more. Dogs aren’t covered by public health insurance, so can you afford vet bills when your dog gets sick? This is exactly why pet adoptions often have age and financial requirements.

3. Is your home big enough?

Dogs need space to move around. At a minimum, there should be a dedicated spot where your dog can rest comfortably.

4. Do you have time to walk and spend time with your dog?

Dogs need exercise and companionship just like people do. A dog that lacks attention may develop separation anxiety, leading to excessive barking, destructive behavior, and more.

5. Do you have the patience to train your dog?

Before your dog learns the rules, you’ll need patience to correct unwanted behavior. If your dog is difficult to train, are you open to working with a professional trainer?

6. What happens to your dog when you’re away for extended periods?

If you’re often away from home, what will your dog do? Being left alone can worsen separation anxiety. In that case, hiring a pet sitter is the best option — it’s far better than leaving your dog home alone.

7. Are you committed for the long haul?

Owning a dog is a long-term responsibility. Think carefully about whether you can stay by your dog’s side for years to come — no matter if you move, get married, or face other life changes.

【Essential supplies】

1. Dry food, wet food, treats, and supplements
2. Food bowl and water bowl
3. Pee pads and a litter tray
4. A playpen, crate, or cozy bed
5. Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental chews
6. Dog shampoo
7. Grooming brush and nail clippers
8. Outdoor gear (leash, harness, collar, poop bags, etc.)
9. Toys

【Essential knowledge】

1. Puppy vaccinations

2. Spaying/neutering

3. Microchipping

4. Parasite prevention (heartworm medication, flea treatment, etc.)

5. Regular health check-ups

Dogs are wonderful, but caring for them takes patience, time, and money — all three are non-negotiable. Many dogs develop separation anxiety, excessive barking, anxious behavior, and destructive habits simply from a lack of companionship. If you can’t always be there for your dog, the best solution is to find a professional pet sitter so your dog doesn’t develop behavioral issues from loneliness.

The Fluv app offers the largest pet sitter matching service in Taiwan, with over 2,500 certified pet sitters who can help with separation anxiety training, companionship, dog walking, and more — so you can have complete peace of mind.

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