You have finally decided to get that new puppy you have always wanted. You want to make sure that your new pup is as happy and as healthy as can be. Though, you are not quite sure where to start. These are some things and ideas that will make them feel right at home.
The first thing you want to do is make sure to have a potty spot. A spot you pick where you want your new puppy to use the restroom when they need to. Puppy training pads are the best option for cleanliness until they are old enough to understand about going outside to use the bathroom. Show your puppy this spot immediately, they may not understand just yet as they will be surrounded by so many new things. Accidents will happen, just be prepared.
It is best not to overwhelm your new puppy. As much as you may want to show them the whole house, they should only have access to one room. Using a baby gate to section off the room from the rest of the house is one of the best options. If you give them too much space, they will more than likely have an accident. They may also try and get into things like the trash. So it’s best to keep it singled out for them for now. You will want to grant them access to another room when they have shown you good behavior and minimal accidents when going to the bathroom.
You will want to have a puppy pen for playtime and a crate for bedtime. As mean as it may sound, this will teach your dog at an early age, when it is time to settle down or when they are able to have free roam. Speaking of sleeping, it is very common for puppies under ten weeks old to sleep up to eighteen hours a day. Let a sleeping dog lie.
When toilet training your puppy to go outside, it is best to reward their good behavior with a small treat. If you are taking your puppy out on one of the many late-night trips they need, it is best to keep the lights to a minimum. You do not want your pup to be overstimulated especially at night.
Games and playing are essential to keeping your puppy happy and active. Your puppy will want to bite or nip playfully. Chewing is something every puppy goes through, especially through their teething phase. Teething will start around twelve weeks of age and will continue until they are about six months old. There are a few things you can do to help manage the chewing and biting behavior. Biting has a lot to do with your puppy’s energy, if they have a lot of energy they will ultimately bite more. This goes for a puppy that is overstimulated as well. You can prevent chewing by getting them to chew rope toys, chewy treats, and even small balls to play with.
Having an active puppy is not a bad thing. You want them active during the day so that you can walk and play with them until they are tired. They will be able to relax more and focus a bit better after a long, fun day of play.
Puppies will need to be up to date with their vaccinations, as it is crucial to their health. It will ensure that they are protected from heartworms, tapeworms, intestinal worms, and other conditions caused by not vaccinating them. Rabies vaccines are needed in dogs in case they develop this disease.
Your puppy may also need to be neutered as they may become aggressive and antisocial. Neutering can also be helpful to prevent certain diseases later in life. Multiple surgeries may be needed as your dog starts to age, depending on genetics and accidents that may happen.
Puppies will need to eat a lot, you want to be sure that you are giving food frequently. Puppy chow is a great option, however, your puppy may need a specific diet depending on its breed. It is advised to speak with your veterinarian about what kind of food your new canine should be eating. There are dogs and puppies that require wet food rather than regular dog chow.
With all the needs your puppy has, you want to make sure that they are getting what they need when they need it. It is always a great idea to invest in puppy insurance plans. Puppy insurance plans cover things like swallowed objects, vaccinations, dietary supplements, neutering, digestive health, disease detection, cancers and growths, and even dental care. Be certain that you are prepared for when the unexpected happens. Get your individual puppy insurance plan today, make sure that they are truly in good health.
