Tips for Getting Puppy Home

Getting a new puppy is an exciting but significant commitment. Here are five pieces of advice to consider when bringing a new puppy into your home:

🐶 Prepare Your Home: Puppy-proof your home before your new pet arrives. This means securing anything that could be harmful to the puppy, such as electrical cords, small objects, and toxic plants. Set up a designated area for your puppy with a crate, bedding, and access to water.

🐶 Establish a Routine: Puppies thrive on routine and structure. This helps your puppy learn what to expect and when, and it aids in-house training and behavioural training.

🐶 Appropriate Socialisation and Train Early: Socialisation and training are crucial for developing a well-behaved and sociable dog. Expose your puppy to different people, animals, environments, and sounds—doing so in a safe and controlled way. Also, start basic obedience training, focusing on simple cues and behaviours that create focus for you.

🐶 Visit the Vet: Schedule a visit to the vet soon after getting your puppy. This helps create a positive association to an integral part of your dog’s ‘circle’. Include groomers, walkers and anyone involved in their care.

🐶 Patience and Consistency: Puppies require a lot of patience. They will have accidents, chew things they shouldn’t, and test boundaries. Consistency is key. Use reinforcement-based training methods, such as treats and toys, to encourage good behaviour.

Bringing a new puppy home is both fun and challenging, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can ensure your new furry friend grows up to be a happy, healthy, and well-behaved companion.