First-time puppy and need some new advice for your puppy? We’re here for you. We have been through this and know how exciting and frustrating it can be.
There are a lot of things you need to do before adopting or buying a puppy. Browse our article, and you will have no problem welcoming the new member of your family.
Three things to know before having a puppy
Before adopting or buying a puppy, you need to prepare yourself. These are the things you should know.
1. It will be difficult at first.
Puppies have higher energy levels than expected, go through a biting phase, and need training early on. This means that some adaptation will be required, which can be difficult if this is your first puppy and you don’t know what to expect.
When it gets frustrating, the thing to remember is that with constant training and patience, your puppy will come out of the mean phase.
2. The first year is the most expensive.
Getting a puppy is going to get pretty expensive, as there are quite a few things that puppies need. The first year can cost you $1,000 or more.
Fortunately, most of the things you buy in the first year, like the crate, bowls, and bed, are going to last for a while. So, you shouldn’t worry too much about your wallet.
3. Your life will change.
When the puppy arrives, your life will change. It is up to you for everything from food to affection, and you will often need to plan your routine around your new pet.
However, you will also get a lot in return. If you prepare well and put effort into training your puppy, you can rest assured that your life will only change for the better.
The essentials for welcoming a new puppy
Before having a puppy, there are some essential things you need to do.
1. Find a good vet.
If you know when you will have a puppy, it is a good idea to seek a vet.
Find vets near you and ask your friends for recommendations. Finding the right vet is crucial. Once you’ve found them, you need to plan the first check-up and discuss vaccines, food, and anything else that might interest you.
2. Research on training
Training should begin as soon as your puppy arrives.
There are a few basic commands that you can easily learn on your own, like sitting, lie down, come over, etc. If you want or need more, you can sign up for an online training course, or you can find a professional to train your dog. You.
3. Prepare the family.
If you don’t live on your own, it’s a good idea to discuss all things puppy-related in advance. Decide on the limits, if you want your dog to have complete freedom in your home, or if certain areas should be off-limits.
Also, we must discuss the chores, who will feed him, walk him, etc.
How to prepare your house for a puppy?
Because little puppies are like little children, protecting your home from puppies is a must. In order for a puppy not to get hurt, there are some things you need to do.
Hide electrical cords. You need to move the cables somewhere higher, cover them with something or protect them using cable covers. Move anything that is poisonous that your dog might swallow. You should store cleaning supplies and medicines in cupboards and on high shelves. Also, if you have plants that are toxic to dogs, make sure they are out of reach. Store small and sharp items. Small decorations, coins, needles, scissors, and anything else a dog can eat or injure itself should not be within reach. Buy an animal-proof trash can. The smell of the trash attracts dogs. They can eat something of it and get sick. Prepare a place for your puppy to go to the bathroom. Finding a place where your dog can do his business before he arrives is vital, so you can start potty training immediately. If you have a yard, putting up a fence is something you need to do. You don’t want your pet to escape or get lost. Also remove anything that can harm your puppy. Secure a swimming pool if you have one and maintain your greenery to avoid ticks that can infect your dog.
What to buy for your dog
The biggest problem for new puppy owners is what to buy when the puppy arrives. So here’s our ultimate shopping list to help get you fully prepared.
New Puppy Shopping List
1. Food and water bowls
It’s best to buy those made from harder materials, as puppies can and will chew on the softer ones.
2. Leash
You can choose between regular leashes made of different materials and retractable leashes. If you choose retractable leashes, make sure they are designed for small dogs or puppies. But of course it depends on the breed and size of the puppy.
3. Harness/collar
Whether you need to get a harness or a collar depends on what you prefer. Some owners consider harnesses to be better because they are concerned that a collar will suffocate their dog.
To avoid putting a lot of strain on your dog’s neck, if you choose a collar, it is comfortable, durable and has an easy release option.
4. Seat belt harness
If you plan to drive with your dog, a dog safety harness is necessary. A seat belt harness should be crash tested, well designed and secure, but not too tight.
5. Dog medal
A tag with all the information about you can come in handy if your puppy escapes. They are very affordable and can even be homemade.
However, they should not replace microchips. Identity tags should just be one more step that will make your puppy’s return easier.
6. Food
It is important to have food specially designed for puppies. If you are having trouble choosing, you can always consult your vet.
7. Treats
Most new puppy advice will tell you that treats are essential for successful training. Choose the ones that use natural ingredients and are safe for puppies.
8. Toys
Toys are essential when you have a dog. Having something to play with makes dogs both calmer and happier.
Experts advise, if the breeder allows it, to rub a toy against the other puppies in the litter. This way your puppy will feel calmer when he smells the toy.
Chew toys can also benefit both of you, as puppies are less likely to chew on your furniture if they have toys to chew on.
9. Dog bed/crate
The bed should be comfortable and suitable for chewers, as your puppy will try to chew it. If you are a handyman and don’t want to spend the money on it, you can always do it yourself.
The cage should be large enough for the dog to move around. Keep in mind that your puppy will grow fast, so you should choose a crate that would suit your dog as an adult, not a puppy.
Another good option is to buy a playpen to protect your puppy when you can’t watch him.
10. Grooming tools
To properly groom your dog, you will need to purchase brushes, specialized dog toothpaste or dental sticks, shampoos, and clippers. Even if you plan to take your dog to a groomer, you will need these products to maintain their fur, nails, and teeth between treatments.
13. Puppy pads
Leak-proof puppy pads are great for the training process. Buy the replaceable ones first. Later you can switch to reusable jars or different jars, mats and trays.
14. Urine neutralization products
Accidents happen. Your puppy will likely urinate on your floor several times before training. That is why you need to prepare and buy specialized products to neutralize urine.
What not to buy
Some things are necessary for your new puppy, while others could be a waste of money. Here are the things you should avoid buying:
Blankets – reuse your old ones. The puppy may feel stressed and urinate on it. After the training passes, you can buy new ones. Expensive products – buy the usual products first. Your puppy will likely chew them eventually. Once it is out of the chewing phase, you can splurge on the necessities. Too Many Products: Your dog doesn’t need ten different toys, three harnesses, and four different balls. We know you’re excited and want your dog to have it all, but 1 or two products from each categoryares more than enough. You can always buy more later.
Tips for puppies for the first week
You’ve got everything prepared, and now that your dog is finally home, you don’t know what to do next. Don’t worry, we’ll help you get through it. Read our tips from Week 1 to find the answers to any questions you might have.
First drive home
To bring your puppy home you will need a crate or box with a blanket. If a puppy sits in the seat, he can become excessively distressed.
It is always recommended that at least two people stay in the car. One person can drive, and the other can entertain the puppy.
First hours in the new house
When the dog comes home, it should be taken for relief, either on the grass outside or on the puppy’s pads. Generally, puppies can hold their bladder for one hour for each month of age.
However, anxious puppies might need to pee more often. So take more frequent bathroom breaks at the start.
When the puppy enters your house, it will likely want to sniff everything and discover its new territory.
If you already have a pet, they aren’t in the room when the new puppy arrives. They should be carefully introduced later. The same goes for toddlers.
If he starts to feel sleepy, take him to the crate or to bed. Someone should stay nearby to check on the puppy every now and then.
Ask the breeder when the puppy usually eats and then feed him. Of course, you need to adjust the feeding time to your own schedule, but to start, make it more familiar to the dog.
First night with a new puppy
The first night will probably be a little stressful for you and your puppy.
At least two hours before going to bed, you should stop feeding him and giving him water. Just before going to bed, take your puppy to relieve himself. Also, play with the puppy a lot before going to sleep to exhaust it.
Put your puppy in the crate/bed lined with a toy and blankets. The crate/bed should be near your bed.
If your puppy is crying, you take him to the toilet and put him back to bed. Likewise, if he is vomiting from anxiety, clean him up and let him sleep again.
Most trainers don’t recommend cuddling your puppy or putting him in your bed if you want your puppy to sleep at night. Nights can be rough at first, but you’ll need to stay strict and consistent if you want your puppy to learn good behavior.
Other tips for the first week
Over time, your puppy should become calmer. He should get used to living with you by the end of the week. However, don’t expect miracles – every dog is different, and it is a process, after all.
Plus, there are some things you should do in the first week to make your job easier in the long run.
Take your puppy to the vet.
The first vet check-up should take place within the first week. The vet will examine the puppy for any illnesses, treat it for parasites, etc. You will also schedule the first vaccination and additional checks.
Start your training.
The best time to start training is when you bring your puppy home. Of course, you should take it slow and start with simple commands like sit, lie down, come, etc.
Also, praise him when he does something right and gives him a treat.
To be coherent
Feed your puppy at the same time every day, three times until the age of six months Take him to the toilet after every meal, in the morning and before bed Do not cuddle your puppy at night Do not encourage your puppy to bite or chew on anything other than toys.
It is crucial to follow the same routine throughout the week as this creates a schedule for later. Of course, cuddling and rocking the puppy should be part of your routine as well. He must feel love and socialize with humans.
Be patient
Being patient is something you will need to practice during this first week. You need to take care of the puppy, create a schedule, and reinforce the behaviors you desire.
When you get through the first week, it will be much easier. And in no time, your puppy will grow up and everything will be much easier.
Faq
Where should your puppy sleep the first night?
For the first night, your puppy should sleep in a crate or bed next to your bed. It is important to keep him close, as he may wake up several times and become anxious.
A crate is a better option because the puppy cannot escape from it, but a dog bed can also be safe if you close the door to the room.
Should I let my puppy cry the first night?
Yes, you should let the puppy cry the first night. Specialists do not recommend cuddling crying puppies as it encourages them to start over.
You can take your puppy to the bathroom and leave him alone again. It is difficult to watch the puppy cry, but rest assured that the crying will stop after a while.
How long will a puppy cry in the crate at night?
Some puppies don’t cry at all, some cry for a few days at night, while others cry only one night and never again. Additionally, some may cry for only about an hour, while others may continue to cry through the night.
It depends on your puppy, but as we mentioned, it will stop when your puppy gets used to their new home.
What not to do with a new puppy?
There are a lot of things you shouldn’t be doing, but some of the common mistakes are forcing puppies to do something, getting mad at them for bad behavior, laughing at something they shouldn’t. Not do and leave them alone too long.