As you patiently await the day your furry friend comes home, there are certain things that you’ll want to do before that big day arrives. From dog bowls to play toys, there are a lot of supplies on the “new puppy” checklist. There are even a few things you aren’t going to be able to find at the store. Here are some tips that will help you get ready to make your newest family member feel right at home!
1. Validate a Veterinarian
Puppies need a lot of attention, sometimes the kind that only a professional doctor can provide. Choosing a vet early on serves several purposes. First, you can take your time finding a doctor that you approve of, visiting different locations until you’re happy with the office and staff. In addition, if something unfortunate occurs and your dog needs immediate attention, you’ll already know where to go. Also, knowing the specifics about the breed you are interested, for example a sheepadoodle puppy is going to have different traits than a boxer puppy or a chihuahua puppy. Each breed and mix has certain characteristics and traits that are important to factor into your decision.
Try to find an office that is close to home or where your puppy will be spending most of its days. Seeing a doctor right away will help identify issues before they become too problematic and prevent other complications in the future. Before you start picking out dog bowls or other pup items, find a doctor so you and your dog are ready for any health-related situation.
2. Feeding Time
When it’s time to feed your pup, any old food won’t do. You should first find out what brand and style your canine companion was previously fed as changing foods too quickly may bother the pup’s stomach. Look for brands that are meant to help young dogs grow big and strong; getting advice from your vet is also a good idea.
When picking out dog bowls for food and water, shallow ones work much better than those with deeper sides. Smaller dogs won’t be able to reach the bottom, and bigger dogs will wolf their meals down in an instant. ABCs Puppy Zs provides a perfect selection of shallow bowls designed to suit every pup’s needs, ensuring a comfortable and safe feeding experience for your furry friend. You may also want to get matt to put under the dog bowls in your pup’s eating space to help keep messy eaters from making the floor filthy.
3. Slumbertown
A growing puppy may appear to have boundless energy, but its tail is going to start dropping before you know it. Creating a sleeping area is a great way to make your new pal feel at home. A pet bed is a great option for creating a sleep station. A big, fluffy pillow is sure to keep it warm through the night, and raised beds help keep the dog off the floor.
Another option is crate training, a method that many dog owners use to soothe their pets and help regulate their sleep. The goal is to place your dog into its crate when it’s bedtime, teaching it that it’s a spot for relaxation, privacy, and sleep. Soon, your dog may actually prefer its crate, returning there when it needs a break from the bustle of family life.
4. Exercise
When your puppy wakes up from its afternoon nap, the first thing it’s going to need is a potty break. Most homeowners aren’t lucky enough to have a completely fenced, safe backyard that a puppy can wander around. So, grab a quality leash that can handle the pulling and straining of an excited puppy to help manage it during your walks. For longer excursions, you may want to bring a collapsable dog bowl with you to help keep the happy hound hydrated.
Your dog needs more than just physical exercise; it needs mental stimulation as well. There are a lot of options to choose from depending on the kind of attention your puppy needs. These may include:
- Chewers: These thick, rubbery products will keep your dog’s mouth out of mischief.
- Squeakers: You may not enjoy the sound, but your dog will have a blast!
- Plushies: Don’t use any old ones; grab a toy meant for your doggy to tear into pieces.
- Ropes: Chances are, your pup’s favorite game is tug-o’-war!
- Balls: Playing with a ball is always a go-to puppy pastime.
Make sure you give your dog plenty of exercise to help it grow strong muscles and stay healthy. And when it’s time for walkies, don’t leave the poop bags behind!
Grooming
Even short-haired dogs need special grooming attention every now and then, which is an essential part of how to keep your house clean with dogs. If you can’t afford to bring the puppy into a professional facility, pick up an electric trimmer with a guard so you can give your dog a quick shave yourself. Unlike cats, dogs cannot take care of their own nails; grab a set of dog nail trimmers to safetly cut off the excess. Nervous nellies that don’t want to injure squirmy puppies can always ask their vet for assistance.
Time to Get Excited for Your New Furry Friend
Getting ready to bring home a dog doesn’t only mean gathering supplies. New puppy parents should have a vet ready to handle any problems and provide advice about what other equipment might be necessary. Make sure you’re prepared to welcome the newest member of your family, and you’ll be covered it slimy kisses and wet-nosed thank yous for years to come!
