Puppy Preparation:
Excitement isn’t even the word for bringing home a new puppy! Prior to your precious pooch arriving in your home for the first time there are certain things to keep in mind as you prepare for puppy.
- Communicate with your family. Once all family members have agreed upon a puppy and breed and where to get the puppy such as a shelter or local breeder, part of preparing for puppy includes a conversation with the family. For instance questions should include: who will take the puppy outside? Who will be responsible for feedings three to four times each day? Who will make the veterinarian appointments?
- Preparing for puppy also includes creating a generic vocabulary. For instance, each person in the family needs to know what the commands are to prevent confusion in your dog. For instance, “down” in your household may equate to lying down, not sitting down.
- Shop til you drop! Preparing for your puppy’s arrival includes purchasing supplies such as dog bowls, water bowls, chew toys, bedding, a leash, collar, ID tag, crate, gate, and grooming supplies.
- Next, it’s time to puppy-proof that home! Preparing for your puppy includes taping electrical cords to baseboards, moving household items to high shelves such as cleaning detergents, removing plants as well as breakables, installing gates, setting up the crate and so-forth. Pretend as if you have a toddler in your home; would your puppy get into hard-to-reach area or perhaps swallow small items?
- Preparing for puppy also includes not overwhelming him or her with excitement. Of course you’ll be ecstatic but you’ll have a long time to express your love to your new family member.
At The Dog Bowl, nothing is more important than your pets’ health and well being. For more information about preparing for your puppy and to shop for items you will need click here.
