All You Need To Know About Getting A Puppy

If you are a self-professed doggy person, deciding to share your life with a canine companion is an exciting prospect. Dogs bring joy and love to the world and, indeed, are man’s best friend. They become an integral part of the family, and taking care of them properly is crucial for their long-term health. If you have decided to get a puppy, what do you need to know?

Puppies–like babies—need a lot of stuff and attention. Here are some things to consider before jumping in! Click To Tweet

Things to Know About Raising a Puppy the First Few Days

A new puppy will likely feel anxious when you get him, so you must buy and prepare a comfortable carrier for him. Put a warm blanket inside so it is warm and the puppy feels safe and secure.

Dogs respond to the voice, so whispering will help your puppy relax. It is helpful to take some spare bedding and cleaning products in case of any accidents on the way home.

Before you take your new dog home, you should make sure that you have enough food, a warm place for sleeping, and have ‘puppy proofed’ the house.

Young dogs are notorious for chewing things, so spend some time clearing away trailing wires, small objects, and anything else you value. Puppy’s teeth can be painful, and they will chew to try and alleviate this.

It would be best if you also put down some pads to protect your floor from accidents. Training your puppy should start immediately so they learn where they can go and where they cannot.

Puppy Food Should be on Your Getting a Dog Checklist

Getting the right food for your puppy is vital for long-term wellbeing. There are many options, and it is helpful to do your research to decide on the best feeding regime.

Your puppy will need several meals a day from 3 months, reducing to 2 meals at six months. How much you feed them will depend on the size. It is helpful to ask for advice from the vet if you are unsure.

What to Do With a New Puppy in Regards to Socialization?

It would be best if you socialized your puppy early on. Introducing him to different people will help him get used to human contact and will be less likely to be alarmed by people as he gets older.

Taking your puppy out and exposing him to as many different situations as possible will build confidence.

You could take him to puppy socialization groups, so he gets used to other dogs in a positive environment and does not develop any aggressive tendencies due to fear.

Training a New Puppy

Training should begin as soon as your puppy gets home. Most dogs respond well to treat-based rewards and tend to learn quickly.

Your puppy will be keen to please but even keener if there is a tasty treat to be had. Positive reinforcement training using rewards is the number one method because it is so effective. Your dog will more likely repeat something such as sitting or lying down if he associates it with reward.

If you are unsure of the proper techniques, you could enroll in some puppy classes where a professional trainer will guide you and demonstrate the various methods.

Owning a dog is a big responsibility and requires work and commitment, but you will be repaid with a loyal and faithful friend you can always count on and love.

What are some things you wish you knew before getting a dog?