Do's and Dont's of Puppy Care

Bringing a new dog home is a treat for everyone, but that doesn’t mean that everything will be sunshine and rainbows after the homecoming. There are certain things that you should know before a puppy even crosses the threshold of your home.

To help with your newest four-legged adventure, use this short list of do’s and don’ts to determine how you should proceed.

DO: Make Time for Your New Puppy

If you’re going to buy or adopt a puppy, you need to ensure that you can spend enough time with him or her to establish a positive relationship. Your puppy should associate you with love, but also with authority. If you don’t spend adequate time with your puppy soon after you bring them home, you may not form a strong relationship.

DON’T: Bring Your Puppy Home at a Hectic Time

The idea of a puppy on a holiday weekend or as a birthday present might seem like a good idea, but if you have a lot going on that weekend and a ton of people at your house, your puppy is going to be extremely stressed. Not only that, but you may not have enough time to devote to those first few crucial days of training.

DO: Look at Insurance Plans for Your Dog

Pet owners can spend billions on veterinary care annually. Fortunately, this cost can be offset by quality pet insurance plans for dogs.

DON’T: Surprise Your Other Pets

While it’s completely normal for other pets to be apprehensive at first, you should take the time to acclimate them to a new animal in the house. Bring all of your pet supplies in the house before the puppy gets there and make time to introduce your pets in a safe and controlled environment. Having treats present and making sure your pets are all calm beforehand are crucial steps to take.

DO: Help Your Puppy Transition

Your puppy will most likely be sleeping in a crate for the first few months that they’re with you, so make sure it’s an easy transition from their litter. Bringing a blanket from their birth mother can ease the transition, as well as a few toys and the same food they’ve been eating.

DON’T: Give in to Whining

Your puppy will cry for the first few nights in your home. That’s completely normal. Whatever you do, don’t give in and comfort them. It might seem mean, but if you give them attention when they whine, they’ll learn that throwing a hissy fit will get them what they want.

The most important part of owning any dog is to be knowledgeable and responsible. If you take these do’s and don’ts to heart, you should be prepared to start a long and happy relationship with your new puppy.