New Puppy
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Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and heartwarming experience. Puppies bring endless joy, love, and laughter to your life, but they also require preparation and care to help them settle in comfortably. But with all that excitement, it's easy to forget the essentials. Here’s a guide to everything you’ll need to buy and tips to prepare for your furry friend’s arrival.
Safety First:
Secure any loose wires, cords, and small objects that can be chewed.
Put away any toxic plants.
Block off stairs to prevent falls.
Install baby gates to restrict access to certain areas.
Common household items that are poisonous to dogs.
Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol, which is an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free products, such as chewing gum, sweets, baked goods, and even some peanut butter brands.
Schedule a wellness check-up with your vet for your puppy as soon as possible.
Socialisation.
Gradually introduce your puppy to different people, places, and other dogs.
Short, positive interactions are key.
Research positive reinforcement training methods to teach your puppy basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Early training helps build a strong bond and establishes good behaviour.
Introduce your puppy to their new environment, family members, and other pets slowly. Allow them time to adjust and build confidence at their own pace.
Establish House Rules.
Decide early on what areas of the house your puppy is allowed in, whether they’ll be allowed on furniture and any other boundaries you want to set. Consistency is key!
Essentials to Buy for Your New Puppy.
Food and Water Bowls.
Choose sturdy, non-slip bowls for food and water. Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are durable and easy to clean.
High-Quality Puppy Food.
Select the best diet for your puppy’s breed, size, and age. Make sure to transition gradually if switching from the breeder’s or dog rehomers’ food. There will be a separate article on what to look for in a food.
Crate or Bed.
A comfortable and appropriately sized crate or bed helps provide your puppy with a safe, cosy place to rest. Crates may look a little daunting, but when set up properly, your puppy will view it as a safe place to retreat to and can be very handy if you need to isolate them for a short period for their safety. Think dropping a bowl of raisins (poisonous to dogs) on the floor and needing time to tidy up.
Collar, Harness, and Lead.
Start with an adjustable collar or harness and a lightweight lead. Ensure they fit snugly but not too tight, leaving space for two fingers under the collar.
Puppy Pads and Cleaning Supplies.
Accidents are inevitable. Puppy pads, enzymatic cleaners, and paper towels will help keep your home clean during toilet training. Don’t forget poo bags for when they start to adventure outside.
Toys.
Puppies love to chew and play! Stock up on a variety of chew toys, puzzle toys, and soft toys to keep them entertained and prevent destructive behaviour.
Grooming Supplies.
Depending on your puppy’s coat type, you’ll need a brush, puppy shampoo, nail clippers, and pet-safe wipes.
ID Tag and Microchip.
An ID tag with your contact information is essential.
Microchipping your dog.
All dogs in the UK must be microchipped and registered by the time they’re 8 weeks old.
Puppy Gate or Playpen.
A gate or playpen helps create a safe space for your puppy to explore without wandering into areas they shouldn’t.
Health Essentials.
Don’t forget to purchase a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs, as well as flea, tick, and worm prevention treatments.
If you are in any doubt about the health of the new addition to your family please seek veterinary advice.
Preparing for a new puppy ensures a smoother transition for both of you. With the right supplies and a bit of planning, you’ll create a safe and loving environment where your puppy can thrive. Remember, the early days are crucial for building a strong bond, so invest time in training, socialising, and, most importantly, showering your puppy with love.
A few notes on crate training.
1. Make it Positive: The crate should be a safe haven, not a punishment. Introduce it gradually and associate it with positive experiences.
2. Temptation is Key: Lure your puppy into the crate with treats, toys, or their favourite blanket. Make it a comfortable and inviting space.
3. Short and Sweet: Start with short periods inside the crate. Increase the duration gradually as your puppy gets comfortable.
4. Feed Them Meals: Feeding your puppy meals inside the crate can help them associate it with positive experiences.
5. Don't Force It: Never force your puppy into the crate. This will create negative associations and make training more difficult.
6. Be Patient and Consistent: Consistency is key. Be patient and persistent with your training, and your puppy will eventually learn to love their crate.
7. Never Use it as Punishment: The crate should always be a safe and positive space for your puppy. Never use it as a punishment or time-out.
8. Observe and Learn: Pay attention to your puppy's cues. If they are whining or distressed, you may be progressing too quickly. Adjust your training accordingly.
9. Make it Comfortable: Ensure the crate is appropriately sized and has a comfortable bed, blanket, and some safe toys.
10. Location, Location, Location: Place the crate in a central location where your puppy can be part of the family activities.
By following these tips, you can successfully crate-train your puppy and provide them with a safe and comfortable space to call their own. Remember, patience and consistency are key!
Many vets offer a puppy health club that provides vaccinations, flea treatments, and regular health checks at a reduced price, often with a monthly payment to help spread the cost.