Everything You Need To Know About Raising A Dog (Singaporean Edition)

Adopting? Purchasing? Or even fostering? This guide is perfect for those looking to own a cute puppy. Follow us along this read to know more about everything you need to know about raising a dog in Singapore.

Before actually owning a pup, there are an impossible number of factors to account for. And one of the bulk is commitment. How much time are you willing to spend with them? A dog can live an average of 13 human years, and with the proper nutrition and attention, perhaps much longer than that. Are you ready to commit?

Some key areas we will be focusing on in this post:

• Looking for your perfect pup
• Breakdown Cost Of Owning A Dog
• Prepping Your Home For The Dog
• What Happens After Your Dog Settles In
• Definitely bathing and other stuff (we call it maintenance)

1. Looking for your perfect pup

Not every breed of canines is suitable for everyone. Family, other pets, and children can be significant factors in deciding. It will be critical for you to observe your current lifestyle as well as any concessions you’re willing to give up for your new dog.

If any members of your family prefer low-shedding dogs, take some time and consider the hypoallergenic-friendly breed of dogs out there in the world.

2. Key factors to consider

Activity Level

With dogs, there needs to be a semblance of a routine involved. If you cannot commit 1-2 walks or even runs, you might be better of considering a dog with lower energy levels.

Size & Growth

It’s not just about directly looking at their sizes. Smaller dogs are vulnerable and can get injured from being stepped on accidentally. Larger dogs tend to need larger spaces, and coupled with longer tails, they need more “wag space”. This helps prevent their tail from getting injured and your expensive figurines damaged.

Basic Grooming

Hair, coats, and shedding. This all comes into play when you decide which dog you’re choosing. Certain dogs like the Labrador and Shiba Inu loves to shed…unwillingly. This is due to their long and thick coats. So don’t be surprised to find a little fluff on that slice of cake you’re enjoying without sharing with them. It’s their form of appreciating you for not sharing. Look for a trusted dog groomer near your area. This will help keep the shedding in check.

Age

All puppies need a vast amount of attention and training, especially over their first years. Getting an adult dog may be more suitable for you if you prefer companionship, without the crazed energy levels during the day. Suppose you’re at the age where cleaning up after spills and accidental poo is appalling. In that case, you might be considering a senior dog as a companion to chill and watch TV with.

HDB Approved Breeds

Take a look at the HDB site before deciding on your final decision.

Check it out here.

3. Breakdown Cost Of Owning A Dog

Depends On Where You Acquire Them: Commercial Or Adoption.

It is relatively affordable to adopt a dog from our local heroes SPCA, starting at $180. For senior dogs over 7.5 years of age, it costs about $70. Specific pedigrees and crosses below 7.5 years of age may cost slightly more, about $250. The jolly thing to note is that it negates the costs of being dewormed, sterilised, microchipped, vaccinated, licensed, and registered if you decide to adopt one. Which saves you a grand total of about $500 or more!

However, if it has always been your dream to own a specific breed, get ready to spend thousands of dollars. But it’s definitely worth it.

Initial Expenses (Before Onboarding At Your Humble Place)

Deworming – $50
Vaccination – $35 to $80
Microchipping – $50 to $80
Spaying/Neutering – $200 to $500
Leash/Collar – $5 to $100 (Every pup needs more than one collar, check them out here)
Dog Licensing – $14 for sterilized pups or below 5 months old*, $70 when unsterilized
Food Supply (1 month) – $40 to $200 (Check out our huge selection of food supply here)

Recurring Expenses For Your Dog (Just when you think it over)

Food Supply (1 month) – $40 to $200
Vaccinations (Yearly) – $35 to $80
Deworming – $50 as required
Licensing – $14 to $70 each year – has to be renewed every year
Shampoo – $10 to $30 every few months
Vet Visits – $40 to $200 when your pup is ill
Grooming – $20 to $100

4. Prepping Your Home For The Dog

The initial week you get to mingle with your dog is undoubtedly exciting. However, it can prove to be challenging as well. Listen up if you need tips and tricks to help settle your dog at home, fuss-free.

Secure an enclosed spot for your puppy, ensure it is well ventilated with enough lighting. Make sure that this space is safely enclosed. Any sharp edges or gaps might be potentially dangerous to your young and mischievous puppy. Water, food, and an all-you-can-sleep bed stuffed with toys are very much appreciated (Check out our toys here). You may also consider laying out plenty of newspaper for when you’re engaging your puppy in toilet training. Remember, this should be the first spot your puppy touches when you initially bring them home. If newspapers are not your choice of reading, you can also purchase pee pads here.

Take a deep look at your living area and spot anything potentially harmful within reach of your tiny puppy. Things like these can include ornamental trees, remote controls, and even shoes. Dogs like chewing. Just make sure they’re not nibbling on the wrong items.

Consider taking a few days off work to accompany your dog. Spending more time with each other can help the two of you connect, making training much more manageable.

Dogs have allergies too. Common allergens include nuts, chocolate, onions, raisins, mushrooms, raw eggs. Immediately clear leftover foods or place them in the fridge, prevent your puppy from getting a taste.

5. What Happens After Your Dog Settles In

Bootcamp For Puppies

Once the family has settled in and is comfortable, it would be preferable to start training. The earlier you start, the better your lessons will stick!

Routine

Slowly incorporate routines into your puppies life. Such can be a routine for mealtimes, walks, exercise and even bathroom breaks. Make sure you’re following all their activities closely.

Find Your Local Vet

Being in Singapore, there is never a shortage of Veterinary Clinics here. But do find your preferred one and stick with it. We’ve all seen too many dogs that fear the vets! So make sure that their first appointment is an enjoyable experience.

Locate A Groomer

Grooming is essential for dogs. It helps them get used to human interaction and additions like nail trimmings, dental and brushing. Ideally, things like brushing their teeth, trimming nails, and washing their coat can be done at home, and should be too! Just for special occasions, the groomers can take over. If you’re looking for grooming tools, we got you! Click here for a wide range of tools just for your pup.

6. Conclusion

It might be hard resisting those large puppy eyes, that energetic wagging tail and the bolting bark that will greet you when you first meet your pup. However, you have to always remember that as the head of their family, you are the one with better judgment concerning your decision and actions. The responsibility falls upon the owner, which is you.