Congratulations, you are preparing to adopt your first or next puppy. Bringing a new puppy to
your home is exciting. This article will share a few helpful tips with you.
The tips we’re sharing are applicable and relevant to both new and experienced pet owners. There is no need to lose sleep or be unsure about what you are doing, what you need to do and what you are failing to do.
Sit back, relax, and read our tips below on how to have the best experience possible.
Puppy Proof Your Home
Like baby proofing a home, if you are expecting a puppy, you also need to pup proof your abode, especially if you are a first-time dog parent.
Providing a comfortable and safe environment free of poisonous substances, toxins, and potentially deadly items is a significant first step to keeping your pup safe.
Include safe chew toys to distract your pup and remove dangerous items.
Visit a Vet
Most Australian pet shelters go out of their way to provide the best care for puppies while in their care, but what they can provide is limited.
One of the first things you should do as soon as you get your new pup home is to schedule an appointment with a vet to get them checked out. Ideally, you should visit a vet within the first two weeks.
Pet Accessories
Now that you are ready to welcome a pup into your home, you should consider investing in
some pet equipment, especially if you are a first-time pet owner.
When you invest in high-quality pet accessories such as stainless steel or ceramic water and food bowls, leather leashes, soft collars, preferably leather, it will go a long way. Jute rugs
are also ideal for the family pet. They are easy to clean, durable and will keep your pet off a cold tiled or wooden floor.
Avoid extendable leashes as they afford you very little control when it matters the most.
Learn
As a pet owner, you should take the time to educate yourself about a few things regarding pet care, including the understanding of how puppies think and learn.
Read books, watch videos, speak to experienced pet owners, consult with reputable pet raising sources such as local animal hospitals and kennel clubs.
The more you know, the better and this is true because your pup will be happier when you do the right things.
Pup Training
Home training or housebreaking your puppy is a time-consuming process that involves getting your pup used to living indoors.
During your puppy’s early development, you should take them out every two or three hours for up to six times a day.
Some of these trips should be taken after meals. You can also crate train your puppies or restrict their movement at night.
Dog Food
It would help if you fed your puppy the best quality food you can afford. Consider viewing food as an investment in your dog’s health.
Great quality food and treats will go a long way in keeping your dog healthy and happy throughout their life.
Feed your puppy a wide variety of healthy dog food that includes nutritious ingredients such as real meat, real vegetables, herbs, vitamins and more.
Train Your Pup
Enrol your puppy in doggy daycare or kindergarten where they learn basic commands such as come, sit, and down.
Doggy daycares allow your puppy to interact with other pups. This is important because socializing is essential during the first few months.
Additionally, get them used to be around humans, expose them to new experiences, and guide
them on how to act within the home.
Consistency
It is particularly important while raising a puppy to be consistent. Serve meals around set times during the day.
Take them out around similar times daily, reward good behaviours, and punish negative ones. Consistency will make your life as a dog owner more comfortable, and it will make the transition seamless for your pup.
