Welcoming a New Puppy
Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and anxiety provoking . The joy, love, and companionship that a puppy brings can be immeasurable. However, it’s important to prepare yourself and your home for the new addition to make the transition as smooth as possible. Let’s face it, your furniture, floor, and shoes might not be the same after bringing home a puppy, but these tips and tricks will help you prepare and set you up for success.
Puppy-Proofing
Just like you would baby-proof a house for a newborn, (which we will be talking about soon!) you’ll need to make sure your home is safe for a curious, teething puppy. Start by taking inventory of hazardous items that could harm your pup such as, cleaning supplies, small items that might be swallowed, electrical cords, or easy access to trash cans. After you bring home a puppy, they will also continue to help you out with this first step. Pups are great at locating hazardous items that you may not have thought of at first such as socks and underwear laying on the ground, bathroom trash cans, or harmful food that may be sitting under your cabinets or dinner table.
- Secure trash cans: Puppies are notorious for getting into things they shouldn’t. Consider investing in puppy-proof trash bins or keeping them out of reach.
- Hide cords: Use cord protectors or tuck cords behind furniture to prevent your pup from chewing on them.
- Create a designated puppy space: Use baby gates to block off areas that are off-limits, like stairways or rooms with fragile items.
Prepare for potty training
Potty training can take time and patience, especially for a rescue pup, but the groundwork starts before your puppy even arrives. Having all the necessary tools ready can help your pup become more successful:
- Puppy pads or outdoor area: Decide if you’ll be training your puppy to go outside immediately or using pads indoors for the first few weeks. If going outside, designate a specific spot in the yard. If you live in an apartment, consider a grass pad on the deck if you have one for frequent trips to the bathroom. This can be very helpful if going outside the apartment takes time.
- Crate: Crate training can be an effective way to help your puppy learn to hold its bladder. The crate should be large enough for your pup to stand up and turn around but not too large that they can designate one side as a bathroom. Finding the right crate can take time and be a frustrating process if you don’t know how large your pup is going to be. Take a look at Facebook Market place for used crates instead of buying a brand new one.
- Cleaning supplies: Accidents will happen, so have enzymatic cleaners on hand to remove odors and discourage repeat offenses. Another tool that has been extremely helpful is a wet vacuum cleaner. If a majority of your home has carpet, this is for you! This investment will go a long way during potty training.
Stock up on supplies
Before you bring your puppy home, make sure you have the essentials to keep them comfortable and safe. Here’s a quick checklist of items to have ready:
- Collar and leash: A soft, adjustable collar and a sturdy leash for daily walks and training.
- Food and water bowls: Opt for non-slip bowls to avoid messes. You might also want to get a water dispenser for convenience.
- Quality puppy food: Consult with your vet about the best food for your puppy’s breed, size, and age. Transitioning to new food too quickly can upset their stomach, so try to stick with the same brand the breeder or shelter was feeding them initially.
- Toys: Choose a mix of toys that are safe for puppies, such as teething toys, soft plush toys, and interactive puzzle toys to keep their minds stimulated.
- Bed and crate: Your puppy needs a comfortable place to sleep. Choose a soft bed or blanket that will make them feel secure in their crate or sleeping area.
Find a veterinarian you trust
Before bringing your puppy home, schedule a vet appointment. Even if the breeder or shelter has already had your puppy checked, it’s good to establish a relationship with a local vet.
- Vaccinations and deworming: Make sure your puppy is up-to-date on all vaccinations, deworming, and flea prevention.
- Microchip: If your puppy isn’t microchipped already, consider having it done as a safety measure.
- Discuss future care: Talk to your vet about a vaccination schedule, spaying or neutering, and any breed-specific health concerns.
Prepare of socialization or the lack of…
A well-socialized puppy is a well-adjusted dog. Socialization should begin the moment your puppy comes home. Exposure to new people, places, and other animals is key to developing a well-rounded, confident dog.
- Introduce them to different environments: Start by taking them on walks around your neighborhood, to the park, or even to pet-friendly stores.
- Meet other dogs and people: Invite friends over and arrange playdates with other dogs to help them learn appropriate social behavior.
- Positive experiences: Always ensure your puppy’s experiences are positive and not overwhelming. Gradually expose them to different sounds, sights, and textures.
Establish a routine
Puppies thrive on routine. It helps them feel secure and understand what’s expected of them. Establish a daily routine that includes:
- Feeding times: Feed your puppy at the same time each day to regulate their digestion.
- Play and exercise: Make time for play and exercise to help your puppy burn off energy.
- Training sessions: Consistent short training sessions will help them learn commands and good behavior.
- Potty breaks: Take your puppy outside frequently to avoid accidents and reinforce potty training.
Patience and bonding
The first few days or weeks with your new puppy will be full of excitement, but also challenges. Your puppy is adjusting to a new environment, and it will take time for them to feel completely at home. Bonding with your new pup takes patience, and some things may not go smoothly at first.
- Gentle discipline: If your puppy makes mistakes (which they will!), use positive reinforcement and redirection instead of punishment.
- Give them space: Some puppies may take a few days to warm up to you, while others may be instant cuddle bugs. Let them come to you at their own pace.
- Bonding time: Spend quality time with your new puppy—whether it’s snuggling, playing, or just sitting together. Building trust early on is crucial.
Training is key
Start training your puppy as soon as possible. Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” can be taught in short, positive reinforcement-based sessions. Early training will help your puppy understand your expectations and will build a foundation for more advanced training as they grow.
- Use treats and praise: Positive reinforcement is more effective than punishment. Reward your puppy for good behavior and redirect unwanted behavior with a calm approach.
- Keep sessions short: Puppies have short attention spans, so keep training sessions to 5-10 minutes and end on a positive note.
Conclusion
Bringing a new puppy into your life is a rewarding experience that requires preparation, patience, and commitment. By taking the time to puppy-proof your home, prepare for training, and provide the right resources, you’ll set your new furry friend up for a lifetime of happiness and well-being. Remember, this journey is as much about learning and growing together as it is about enjoying the countless moments of love your new pup will bring.