A Beginner’s Guide To Caring for Puppies
You’ve just brought home a new pet. You’re as excited as your new puppy and can’t wait to start. However, knowing what to do can be challenging if you’ve never cared for a puppy. Where does one get pet supplies? How often does my puppy need to visit the vet? If these are some questions in your mind, then you’ve come to the right place. This guide will help you prepare your home and yourself for a new puppy.
Puppy-Proof Your Home
For a new puppy, your home is a playground. It’s important to puppy-proof the house before your new family member goes exploring. All chewable items that can be swallowed must be stored away. Cover or hide electrical cables behind furniture. Keep the puppy from entering rooms where pee or poop could cause damage. Get down to the floor and inspect the sofa and other areas from a puppy’s point of view.Buy Puppy Supplies
Following is a list of essential puppy supplies you must get:- Dog bed
- Bowls
- Toys
- Treats
- Dog food
- Collar and leash
- Brush and comb
- Dog shampoo and conditioner
- Cleaning supplies
Find a Vet
Ask around for a reliable vet and register your puppy with them. Vet clinics generally take new pet parents through the vaccination schedules, deworming process, parasite control, and more. If you can find a 24/7 online vet, then even better. Set aside an emergency fund for any unexpected veterinary expenses.Spend Time in Puppy Training
Puppies won’t automatically know how to behave appropriately. Your new dog has to learn appropriate behavior. Giving your puppy a treat when they behave well encourages them to continue that behavior. Employ reward-based training techniques. Potty training is another important aspect. Keep the following tips in mind while potty training your puppy:- Prevent it from making a mess at home.
- Offer frequent toilet breaks.
- Encourage your puppy when they go to the right spot.
