Preparations For Bring Home Your New Dog
Major preparations should be made when accepting a new puppy into your home. In the same way expectant parents would decorate a nursery and baby-proof the house, prospective dog owners will also need to make some adjustments.
Be sure to create a safe and comfortable space devoted solely to the puppy. This could be a bed, cage, or crate. Place the food and water bowls near this area if possible. Also, remember to purchase chew toys to scatter around the house to entertain your puppy.
Visit a pet store ahead of time and consult a salesperson on the best food for your new dog. You will also want to pick up dog treats, a collar, and a leash.
Puppy Proofing Your Home
Puppy proofing the house is perhaps the most important preparation. You may want to consider purchasing gates to confine the puppy to specific parts of the house. Make certain that the following items are out of reach: paper, pens, markers, paper towels, toilet paper, blankets, pillows, sporting equipment, tools, shoes, clothing, and food. A curious puppy will chew almost anything while she is teething. Divert her attention from household items by offering her dog toys to chew on.
Bringing Your Puppy Home for the First Time
Introducing Pup To Your Home for the first time is a joyful and exciting experience. When you go to pick her up, allow her to get to know you a little before whisking her away to a foreign environment. Since crating the dog for the ride home may frighten her, have someone hold her. While this type of travel isn't recommended in everyday circumstances, it is the best way to help a puppy feel safe in an unfamiliar setting.
Once you get her home, introduce her to the entire family, including other pets that live in the home. Let her explore the house and become familiar with the new environment. Do not leave her alone for extended periods of time for at least the first few days. This will ease the transition, and help avert accidents. It is also helpful to establish a feeding and exercise schedule. If the puppy can anticipate when she will be fed and let out, she is less likely to soil the carpet.
Schedule a visit to the veterinarian for a full examination and any necessary vaccinations. This will ensure your puppy will be both happy and healthy for years to come.
