Choosing to add a new puppy to your family should not be taken lightly. There are a lot of responsibilities, and a little prep work ahead of time will make the transition to puppy parents a little easier.
Clear Communication
Especially if you live with other people, it is important to maintain clear communication for everyone’s role with the new puppy. Determining who is responsible for walks, feeding and filling the water bowl, and potty breaks is important. Will you dog be fed table scraps? Will they be confined to a certain location at certain times?
A Puppy-Proof Home
Think about where your puppy will spend most of their time. Will you use a crate of kennel? Do you need to get a baby gate to block off your area? Within the space your puppy will be, are there any items your puppy might chew on or destroy (cords, shoes, plants, etc.)?
Time to Shop
You’re probably aware that you need to purchase bowls, a collar and leash, food and toys for your new puppy. Since you don’t really know what your puppy likes yet, it may be best to get a sampling of toys and know that, as your dog grows, their tastes may change, and they may want different types of toys.
Visit Your Vet
If your puppy was adopted from a shelter or breeder, they may be up to date on vaccines, but will likely need boosters soon. Make sure you take your pup to the vet to establish them as a patient, and to establish their schedule for shots. The vet will also be able to offer insights into puppy diets, potty training and obedience training.
Patience, Patience, Patience
It takes a lot of patience to raise a puppy to be a good dog. YOU have the responsibility to teach them what the human world is all about. Dog trainers often say it’s about “management” – in other words, if you don’t want your dog to eat your shoes, don’t leave them on the floor when he has access to them. Whether you want to teach your pup to sit, to stay off the furniture, or to stay quiet when the doorbell rings, its all about patience, reputation and consistency.
Our biggest suggestions are to do your research on breeds and understand the responsibilities of owning a dog before deciding to bring a puppy into your family. They may be cute, but they sure are a lot of work!