Welcoming home a new member of the family is always fun, but it’s especially when this new member is four-legged, floppy-eared, and bursting with love and attention.
Though taking care of a new puppy can be an exciting journey, it can definitely be stressful without the right approach. Here, Katherine Marraccini breaks down some important tips to know when caring for a new puppy.
Make A Puppy Space
Letting a puppy have a designated space to call their own is important, and allows them to fall into a routine of being in a home for the first time. Getting them accustomed to one area will ensure they don’t get overwhelmed learning about the rest of the home in time.
Scout out a quiet room where the puppy can get rest and be unbothered. Setting up a baby gate in a corner will keep them from getting into trouble. In this area, set up a bed, puppy pads, toys, and food and water to keep them happy and preoccupied.
Find A Veterinarian
Doing research on a trustworthy veterinarian is extremely important. For those who have friends with dogs, ask around for a trustworthy opinion and recommendations as to which local vets are best. It’s important to think about finding a professional that a puppy can grow with rather than finding someone who has cheaper rates.
This vet will be the person to supply a pup with their first round of immunizations, as well as do their routine check-ups and ensure that they’re in their best state of health. Some things to keep in mind when finding a vet are their philosophies, whether they specialize in the breed of puppy one has, and of course, their location.
Finding Supplies
Keep in mind all of the things you’ll need to ensure that the pup’s first couple of weeks at home go by smoothly. Here’s a list of some of the basic necessities a new pet owner will need on hand:
- A bed. If the pup will be spending a lot of time outside, finding an elevated outdoor bed is also a necessity.
- Food and water bowls.
- A crate, one that the pup can grow in would be best.
- A collar with a tag and updated points of contact, as well as a sturdy leash.
- Training pads.
- Treats
- High-quality food
- Shampoo and conditioner
- A brush made for the pup’s hair type.
Make Time to Bond
Pups need a lot of attention. Not only do they need an eye on them just in case they get into trouble, but also because they need time to bond. This is by far the most fun part of having a pup, but it’s important that owners have the time set aside to dedicate to this stage of puppy parenthood.
Bonding time can mean going on walks, showing the pup around the home, introducing the pup to family and other pups with precaution, setting a routine that the owner and pup can both get used to, sleeping nearby them to show the pup they’re cared for, and simply cuddling as much as needed.