Preparing for a New Puppy

It has finally happened. Maybe you were not in a place where you could offer a new dog a home, but now after much deliberation and discussion, you have decided to add a new puppy to the family. This is an exciting time for everyone in the family and can be a time of great joy and family bonding as you get to know your new dog.  You may be asking yourself, “how should I be preparing for a new puppy?”

Having a puppy can bring you a lot of happiness, but it also involves a lot of responsibility. Before you bring your new furry friend home, it is best to know what you will need and what you will need to do to give your new pup the best start in life and make the training process as simple as possible. If you are not sure where to start, look no further. We will share items that you will need for your puppy, as well as socialization tips. Take a look!

What Are Must-Haves for My New Puppy?

Before you bring your new puppy home, make sure to have everything they need to make the transition as smooth as possible for all of you. These items include the following:

• Stainless steel, glass, or ceramic food and water bowls. While plastic bowls tend to be cheaper, puppies tend to chew, and you may have to keep replacing them. Stainless steel, glass, or ceramic or sturdier are heavier and can withstand puppy rambunctiousness. 
• Puppy food. There are many puppy foods available at your local pet store. If you are not sure which food to pick, seek out the advice from a trusted veterinarian. Always make sure to pick food that is specific for your puppy’s age. 
• Treats. These will be a lifesaver when you are trying to potty train your puppy.
• Crate. Before you pick a crate, make sure you have a rough idea of the size your puppy will be full grown so that the crate will last for a long time. They should be able to comfortably stand up and turn around while in it. 
• A bed. It is important for your new puppy to have their own place to sleep, rest, and get away if needed.
• Toys. Puppies don’t just want to chew; they need to for their own physical and mental health. Be sure to get them durable chew toys that they will be more willing to chew on then your furniture or shoes. 
• Pee pads. Pee pads will help your puppy learn that there is a specific area that need to go when they have to potty. Plus, they are easy to clean and will help your puppy have an easier transition to using the potty outside. 
• Brush and nail clippers. The type of brush you will need will vary depending on your puppy’s coat length. Even if your dog is short haired, they still need to be brushed to remove loose hairs and help maintain healthy skin. A good pair of nail clippers is also necessary as long nails can get caught in things and cause injury to your puppy. 
• Puppy shampoo. Dogs do some of their own grooming, but regular bathing with a shampoo designed for them will keep their skin and coat healthy. 
• Parasite prevention. Dogs tend to pick up a lot of critters when they go outside. Make sure they are protected against fleas, ticks, intestinal and heart worms as these can all cause serious health issues. 

This may seem like a lot, but it will all be put to good use and will last for a long time.

How Do I Socialize My New Puppy?

A big part of having a dog is socializing them with new people, other dogs and animals, and new situations. You may feel overwhelmed by how to go about it, but you do not have to do it all at once. Introduce new situations and other people gradually. This could be as simple as taking them on walk, taking them to a dog park for a half hour (once they have been vaccinated), joining puppy training classes, or even taking them to the pet store to pick out a toy. And of course we can always help by walking your new puppy on a consistent basis! Check out our new puppy services page. https://peakcitypuppy.com/new-puppy-service/

The most important thing is to be patient and remain calm. Puppies are learning and they can pick up on your anxiety and stress. When they make mistakes (jumping, barking at other people or dogs, etc.) be firm and say no, but do not yell. They will associate those situations with bad and it will have the opposite effect of what you want. 

Make new experiences positive for your puppy. Praise them effusively when they behave in the way you desire. Don’t be afraid to incorporate treats if your pup is motivated by food. 

Any new situation can be a learning experience and a way for your puppy to get used to, so they will grow up curious and eager instead of fearful and anxious. Do not be too hard on yourself if things don’t always go smoothly. You can always try again and use different tactics or come back to something if your puppy is not quite ready. 

Most importantly, have fun! If you are enjoying yourself your puppy will enjoy themselves too and the learning experience will be more effective. 

Final Thoughts

Getting a new puppy is a thrilling time, filled with new experiences for both you and your pet. One thing you need to focus on with a new puppy is making sure that you have everything you need, such as food bowls, crate, toys, pee pad, and grooming equipment.

It is also important to socialize your puppy to a wide variety of people, animals, and situations. This helps them grow up to be less anxious and fearful and less disruptive overall. Be patient, kind, and calm. Most importantly have fun and make the experience enjoyable for you and your puppy. 

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