New Puppy? Now what?
We recently cared for a sweet Corgi puppy that was going to be a surprise Christmas gift. Many people get a puppy as a gift for Christmas and if you did, congratulations! Taking responsibility for a new puppy is very rewarding but does have its challenges. We have compiled a list to help you be equipped to provide the best life for you and your new pup. These tips not only apply to new puppies but also to any new adopted dog in your life.
First and MOST important is the need for your unconditional love! These puppies only know love and they depend upon you to show them right from wrong, they trust you so don't let them down.
Dietary Needs: Make sure you always have fresh water available, get a food bowl that is non-toxic, and dedicate a safe space in your home to feed them. Some puppies/dogs require special food bowls i.e.: elevated feeding stations or bowls to help slow them down while eating. Do your research on dog food and choose the best and most healthy dog food for your breed of puppy. It can be overwhelming with all of the options available, from grain free, raw, canned food, dry kibble, gently cooked, etc., so talk to your veterinarian to discuss what food is best for your puppy.
Leashes and collars: Purchase a well-made, durable leash and collar. Adjustable collars are a must because they allow room to grow. A good rule of thumb on how tight to have the collar is being able to put two fingers between the dog’s neck and collar.
Leashes vary in material, length, and function so make sure to get one that is appropriate for your puppy. Stay away from retractable leashes, as they are very dangerous and can cause serious injury. When walking your puppy, a harness may be needed to help with pulling or chewing. A gentle leader is another option for puppies who like to pull.
Identification: The amount of pets that go missing daily here locally would blow your mind. Having i.d. on your pet is the #1 way to assure the return of your lost pet. Have your vet or local rescue Microchip your pet. Keeping your contact information updated on the microchips manufacturer’s website also proves pet ownership, in the event someone steals your dog. Make a pet i.d. tag with your phone number, address, and the dog’s name so you can attach it to his/her collar. You may consider buying a collar that has this information embroidered or implanted on it.
Training needs: Purchase a pack of puppy training pads for possible accidents. House training can take several months, so start early and don’t rush it. Puppy socialization is a critical part of your responsibility to ensure a balanced, well behaved dog. Partner with a dog trainer that offers training classes, so they can teach you the proper commands, to be consistent, and the right and wrong ways to deal with behaviour concerns. It’s important to know that just because you’re working with a trainer doesn’t mean you don’t have work to do too. Training will still need to be reinforced and practiced at home.
Breed specific needs to know: Some breeds require a lot of space to run around. If you don’t have a large area, consider hiring a dog walker or taking them to daycare. Huskies are known to be escape artists, so make sure your yard is secure and your fence is tall enough. Some breeds, like Beagles, Dachshunds, and Basset Hounds, are more vocal than others, which would not be ideal if living in an apartment. Doing research on breed specific behavior is a great idea before bringing a new pet home, however that is not always an option. If you find yourself with a puppy that is making your life a challenge, we recommend talking with a dog trainer.
Grooming needs: Start bathing your puppy at a young age, so he/she can get used to the sensation of being wet. Make bathing a fun and rewarding experience by treating them for each step in the bathing process. Buy a nail dremel to ensure your dog’s nails never get long. If you don’t want to groom your pup, hire a groomer. All Poodle/Doodle breeds need to be groomed regularly, ideally every 3-4 weeks, and combed daily.
How to integrate a new puppy into your family: Some breeds are high energy, some low energy, some have anxiety or behavioral issues, and some just want to love all over you. Knowing how to integrate your new puppy's personality into your household is something that takes time to learn. Make sure your new puppy matches your lifestyle because getting a dog is a big decision.
Budget: Now that you have a new addition to your family, it’s time to take a look at your budget and make sure you allocate money for their care. Not only will you need to save for vet bills, but also grooming (sometimes once a month, depending on breed), food, training classes, and a pet sitter/dog walker for when you travel or are at work. While that may sound overwhelming, start setting aside $20-$50 a month (or more) in anticipation of those expenses down the line.
We are happy to partner with you in your new puppy’s care! You can book dog walking or drop-in services anytime at funkybunchpetcare.com
