We love our dogs and we wouldn’t be without them. Sometimes though a dog that has been raised in the city takes a bit of adjustment when it comes to the country. A bit like us really. You tend to want to run round a lot and let off some steam!
Being in country is great but there are some things we need to do to make sure the dogs are safe. The same probably applies to livestock.You have to respect the people who have been here for generations. You want to get on with the neighbours. More than anything you want to give your dog the great life he or she deserves with all the freedom that entails.
Get out there and meet the neighbours.
It’s a matter of courtesy really, but you might make it a point. Introduce yourself as the new dogs in town so to speak. That way everyone can start to get used to seeing you around and more importantly your dog can get used to meeting the others dogs around the place.
Set out your dog space
The freedom of living in the country is tempered by some of the possible dangers and limitations. Our dog wouldn’t go running around the town without a lead, and he certainly won’t be doing that here. We have a great garden, and I want us all to be able to enjoy it and that includes the dog.
You might consider running up some fencing to make sure the space he is in is safe and enclosed. That also means I can fence off any areas of water that might prove to be a problem. We’ll be planting here eventually but right now I’m on a bit of a weed-killing spree. I need a dog friendly weed killer and that is exactly what I’ve been laying down and I‘m thrilled with it.
Give him a kennel.
If you have the luxury of a spare downstairs room you could let the dog in there with no worries, and that’s fine sometimes. I’ve alway had an idea that the dog would get his own house! There are plenty of kennel kits out there. I think that it would be great for him to have a space to call his own!
Get some training
Probably the biggest worry for a dog owner in the country is the animals and in particular the stock. It’s one thing to have him tearing off after a rabbit but quite another to think that he’d see sheep in the same vein. Take a look around and get your dog into a training class. The best way to deal with the possibility is of course to get him used to walking around the animals and coming to heel when you call. The rest of the time he’ll be on the lead.
It’s just reassuring to think that he’ll be able to settle into his new home with no worries. I’m sure he’ll soon be walking around like he owns the place.