How To Take Care Of Your New Puppies?

Adding a new puppy to your family is such an exciting and special moment. The puppy will grow into an adult dog, and together you will get the chance to make so many memories together.

Every dog that has been in my life has made such an important impact on it. There are many things to do when taking care of a new puppy, so make sure you make a list and check it twice.

New Puppy Care

Why Choosing The Right Puppy Is So Important?

There are many different breeds of puppies out there to consider.

You want to make sure that you are bringing home a puppy that suits you and your family’s lifestyle because some dogs are suited to specific lifestyles than others.

For instance, herding dogs like Blue Heelers or Australian Shepherds do well on farms or homes with large backyards. Chihuahuas, on the other hand, do well in apartments and make great lap dogs.

Speak with breeders or the local shelter to make sure the dog you are wanting is suitable for you. Different breeds come with different temperament levels as well.

I love dogs who are gentle, family dogs like Golden Retrievers or Labrador Retrievers. I also love dogs that are easy to train because when you lead a busy lifestyle, it is easier to have a dog that you can train quickly! 

That being said, any breed of dog takes time to train, but some grasp it easier than others. 

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What To Consider Before Choosing A Nice Name For Your Puppy?

The name of your puppy should be perfect because that is what everyone will know him or her by. 

Just like when trying to name a child, naming a puppy can be hard. You can try:

Special Name From Your Childhood

Childhood is full of special names and places, so why not pick a name for your dog from there? 

Try an old street name, childhood friend name, favorite store, or a name from your favorite childhood movie.

A Name Based On Looks or Talent

Sometimes waiting a few weeks after bringing your puppy home can help you decide on a name. The more you get to know their personality, looks, and maybe a hidden talent, the easier it will be to find a suitable name.

Some names I adore are Snowflake, Sugar, Snickers, Auburn, Noir, and Caramel.

A Baby Name

If you are a parent and never got the chance to use a baby name you adored, then pass it on to your new puppy!

This is especially a good idea if you and your partner cannot agree on a name for the baby.

Check: Why Do Dogs Scratch At Their Beds?

How To Set Identification For Your New Puppy?

This is usually done when the puppy is brought in to be spayed or neutered because they are already under anesthesia. 

The tattoo is usually done on the inside of one of your puppy’s ears and it can easily be seen. Floppy ear dogs hide the tattoo better than pointed ear dogs.

Microchipping Your Doggy

A microchip implant is the size of a grain of rice and inserted under your puppy’s skin somewhere. 

The microchip allows veterinarians to track your dog to you if he or she goes missing and is brought in by a stranger.

Collar Tags

You can have collar tags made at any pet store, and you can customize them the way you like. Always make sure you have your dog’s name, owner’s address, and phone number on the tag.

If your puppy loses its tags, you can have them re-made for a cheap price.

What Preparations Do You Need Before Your New Dog Arrives At Home?

Bringing home a new puppy is the start of an exciting journey. There are many things to do to prepare for your puppy’s arrival, so make sure you are ready!

I remember when my first puppy came home, I forgot to buy a leash for it. If you forget something, do not worry because it is a lot to remember.

It might be helpful to assign each family member a responsibility.

Sit Down And Have A Family Agreement

Sit down and have a family agreement on everything that needs to be done before your puppy comes home. 

This may also be a good time to set agreements on things like who is going to walk the puppy in the morning and who is at night, and who will give the puppy food and set a water dish out every morning.

Dog’s Exercise Needs

Stock Up On The Right Supplies

A quick trip to your local pet store will allow you to stock up on the right supplies for your puppy. 

Below I have compiled a list of all the things that I think are necessities to buy:

#1 Crate

A crate is an important training tool, and you can also use it as a safe place for your puppy to stay when you are not home. There are many different styles to pick from, so choose one that is comfortable for your puppy’s size. 

Never buy a crate that is too small and does not allow your dog to stretch out or stand up. 

There are soft crates that can pop up or down when needed, metal crates that are easy to clean, and carrying crates that are great for car travel.

#2 Food And Water Bowls

Having a food and water bowl that is big enough or small enough for your puppy is important. Bigger puppies need bigger bowls and smaller puppies need smaller ones. 

Metal bowls are easy to clean and quite common. However, ceramic ones are sturdy and usually come with cute designs (if you care about that).

Whichever type of food and water bowl you choose, always clean it every night so that bacteria do not grow.

#3 Food

This is probably going to be one of the hardest decisions. I love feeding my dog real meat and vegetables. That being said, if you want to feed your dog actual dog food, then check out the different dry and soft foods. 

The back of any bag or can of dog food has your puppy’s weight and appropriate serving size listed. Food can get expensive, so it is important to find food that is healthy but affordable.

You will also want to consider your puppy’s activity and breed when dishing out food. The more exercise your puppy or growing dog does, the more food it will need.

#4 Training Treats

Soft chewable treats are great for training. You should not feed your puppy big cookies or high-calorie treats because too many could cause digestive upset.

I like small, fruit-flavored chewy treats to give my dog while training. You can also break apart the treats also to prevent overfeeding.

#5 Collar With License, ID Tag, And Leash

The collar you buy for your puppy should fit snug but should never be too tight. I suggest a body harness for your puppy, as this prevents any pressure on the neck from happening during walks. 

If you buy a harness, you should still have a collar on your puppy with a license and ID tag. The leash you buy should also not be too long or short.

I find asking an expert at the pet store helpful in finding the right leash length.  

#6 Carrier

For smaller dogs, a carrier is a great option for car rides to the pet store or vet.  

With bigger dogs or puppies, a harness that has a loop for a seat belt is a safe way to travel with them. 

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#7 Dog Bed And Blankets

Your puppy will need a comfortable dog bed and blankets to sleep at night and during the day. You can buy a dog bed at any pet store, and you can even give your dog some of your old blankets to sleep with.

Blankets can be a comforting object for a dog to cuddle with, and if it smells like you, your dog will love it even more.

#8 Dog Toothbrush

Your dog’s teeth should be cleaned every couple of weeks, and you can buy a special toothbrush to clean them with. The toothbrush should be appropriate to your dog’s mouth size and you should never brush too hard when cleaning them.

At first, your puppy might not like having its teeth cleaned, so try massaging their gums often with your finger to get them used to the feeling.

#9 Chew Toys

Stock up on chew toys for your new puppy because the teething process will have them itching to chew anything in sight! Toys also keep your puppy occupied so they do not get into trouble around the house.

Always monitor your puppy when they are chewing on their toys and remove any tags.

My Dog Ate Plastic

#10 Grooming Tools

Depending on the breed of dog you have, your growing puppy will need lots of brushing! Dogs like St. Bernard’s, Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and Sheepdogs need regular brushing to prevent matting.

You can also keep a flea comb on hand if needed.

#11 Stain And Odor Removing Cleaners

Your puppy is going to have accidents, no matter how hard you try to avoid them. When you are toilet training your puppy, it can lead to accidents happening in the house.

It is a good idea to have stain and odor-removing cleaners on hand to tend to any messes that happen. 

Always make sure your puppy does not lick any of the cleaners, and never punish your puppy for having an accident.

#12 Baby Gates

There will be areas of your house that you do not want your puppy to enter. I always have my dining room blocked off with a baby gate because I have some expensive antiques and carpet in that room.

Whichever room you decide to block off, try using a baby gate to block the area off. As your puppy matures, you may decide to let them into the area because they are less likely to get into mischief.

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How To Prepare Your House?

Just like when you are bringing home a new baby, you have to prepare your house for your new puppy. You may find it helpful to make a checklist to work off of while you puppy-proof your house.​

#1 Create A Gated-Off Space

Not every space of your house will be safe for your puppy, so make sure you gate off any areas they should not enter.  You can use baby gates, like I suggested above, or keep doors shut.

#2 Puppy-proofing Home

Before you bring home your puppy, make sure you properly put away any dangerous household cleaners, medications, and food, throw away or hide any poisonous plants, and keep garbage out of the dog’s reach.

Plus, you want to consider your puppy like a new baby when proofing your house.

Arrange For Home Care

Home care for your puppy is an important consideration to make.

#1 Doggy Daycare

I love doggy daycares, as they allow your dog to socialize with other dog friends and exercise while you are at work or out for the day.

Some breeders offer daycare for their puppies, so you may be able to organize something with them.

#2 Dog Walkers

It is never fair for your dog to not get a walk-in daily. If you have to be at work extra-long or you are sick in bed, call up a local dog walker and have them take your pooch for a stroll.

Always read reviews of dog walkers and daycares before you hand your dog over.

Find A Good School

Your puppy will need lots of training, no matter how good of temperament its breed has.  Finding a good school is important to your puppy’s overall success as an adult dog.

Obedience Classes

Your puppy should attend an obedience class at least once a week. Usually, the classes will have a puppy kindergarten, where your puppy will learn basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leave it. 

These commands will help you and your puppy have a positive relationship as he or she grows up.

Plan The Trip Home

The trip home with your puppy should be comfortable for him or her. You may want to bring a crate from them to sit in or have a box with a blanket.

When I brought my first puppy home, it wanted to sit on my lap the whole ride home. 

While this is cute, to keep the puppy safe, you should always have them secured in a crate or comfy box with a blanket.

What Sort Of Health Care Is Needed For Your New Puppy?

Your puppy will need to go to the vet to get a check-up. Usually, the breeder will have already taken the puppy for vaccinations, deworming, and an overall health check-up.

That being said, it is always a good idea to do it yourself too.

Make Sure You Have A Good, Reliable Veterinarian

Not every vet is going to be great, so do your research and find a reliable one. Your puppy’s health is a big determinant of the type of vet you have.

You want to find a vet that genuinely cares about your puppy’s needs and cares about you, the owner.

Get Your Dog Vaccinated

Vaccinations are important to keep your dog healthy and away from any dangerous diseases, like Parvo. Your vet will be able to tell you what vaccinations are required at certain ages, so you can arrange to have your puppy brought in.

A trip to the pet store afterward is a good treat for your puppy after getting his or her shots.

Discuss Deworming With Your Vet

Always ask your vet about deworming, especially if your dog is throwing up or coughing a lot. If you suspect your dog has worms, your vet can run special tests to find out.

It is important to run tests to find worms because the sooner you treat them, the healthier your dog will be. There are various kinds of worms that are common in dogs, and they all have different health risks. 

Considering Fitting The Dog With An ID Chip

This is especially important if your dog likes to run off-leash.

Sometimes dogs take off while running at the dog park, and if you have an ID chip, like a microchip, implanted in your dog, they can be tracked. The ID chip can easily be inserted during a visit to the vet and it is relatively painless.

Use Regular Parasite Preventative Treatments

Parasites like fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and heartworms are dangerous to all dogs.

If your dog has contracted one, your vet can provide you with preventative treatments, like special medicines and deworming treatments. These treatments are usually easy to give your dog because they come in treat or drop form.

Consider Spaying And Neutering

This is one of the most important things I think you can do for your puppy. 

Spaying and neutering your dog will prevent them from having unwanted puppies and in female dogs, it can actually prevent ovarian cancer.

Around the age of one-year-old is when you should have your puppy spayed or neutered.

​Get Pet Health Insurance

Pet health insurance can be bought for a relatively low cost per month. Each pet insurance plan is different, so call around and ask about the policies and cost.

It is always good to have coverage, even if you end up not needing it. I have spent thousands of dollars on my pets and I am so glad I have insurance to help me with the costs.

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Watch For Early Signs Of Illness

When your dog is not feeling well, there will usually be clear signs. Never look past any illness because it could be something serious. A quick trip to the vet is a good idea to find out why your dog is ill.

  • Lack Of Appetite

If your dog is not eating food, growling at his or her food bowl, or refusing treats, then this can be a sign of illness.

If you notice them not eating for over two days, take your dog to the vet immediately because they need nourishment.

  • Poor Weight Gain

If you notice your dog losing weight or not gaining weight, then this could be a tell-tale sign of something more serious. 

You always want to keep track of your dog’s weight so you know what is a healthy weight for them to be at.

  • Vomiting

Dogs vomiting is a normal thing. Sometimes they pick up things off the road on a walk or they eat too fast. However, if you notice your dog vomiting excessively then you should go to a vet immediately.

Excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration and loss of electrolytes.

  • Swollen, Painful Abdomen

A swollen, painful abdomen can be a serious problem. Oftentimes, this can mean growth, tumor, or digestive issues.

  • Lethargy (Tiredness)

Dogs love to sleep, but if you notice your dog always looking lethargic and not wanting to go for walks, then this could be a problem.

Lethargy in dogs could mean they are unwell, their liver is not functioning right, or even pain somewhere.

  • Diarrhea

Diarrhea is as common in dogs as it is in people. Your dog is bound to get an upset tummy at some point in his or her life, but chronic diarrhea is a serious matter.

It might even be a result of your dog’s food, which you might have to change.

  • Difficulty Breathing

If you notice your puppy is breathing heavily or having trouble breathing, then this could be a symptom of respiratory distress which is typically caused by a disease.

Always have your puppy’s breathing examined by a vet if you are worried; it is better to be safe than sorry.

  • Wheezing Or Coughing

Wheezing or coughing could be a sign of kennel cough, which can be treated with medicine. Kennel cough is associated with dry coughing or snorting-like coughs.

Heart disease, chronic bronchitis, and heartworm disease are also connected to frequent wheezing and coughing.

  • Pale Gums

Pale gums can be a sign of anemia or liver problems in your dog.

A quick check into your dog’s mouth can tell you if your dog has pale gums or not; their gums should be a healthy pink color.

  • Swollen, Red Eyes, Or Eye Discharge

These are symptoms of dry eyes, tear duct problems, allergies, tumors, and distemper. Because there are so many possibilities with these symptoms, it is best to have your dog’s eyes looked at by the vet.

Discharge like “sleep”, is normal for dogs to have and should be wiped clean every morning with a warm cloth.

  • Nasal Discharge

Nasal discharge is a sign of a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. If your dog sneezes a lot, do not be alarmed because this is just as normal in dogs as it is in humans.

Keep watch on your dog’s nasal discharge and if it becomes excessive or is paired with reverse sneezing, then you may want to consult with your veterinarian immediately.

  • Inability To Pass Urine Or Stool

If your dog is not going to the bathroom then this could be something you want to address with your vet. 

Your dog should at least pass urine every day and stool every other day, but never more than that. This could be a sign of a digestive issue, lack of fiber in the dog’s diet, or a bladder problem.

What Are Tips Before Choosing Food For Your Dog?

Selecting the right food for your dog is very important. It should provide your dog with enough energy and nutrients.

#1 Try Out Dry Food On Your Dog

Some dogs prefer dry food to soft food, so try giving your dog dry food first. It packs a lot of nutrients (depending on the type) and it is easy to dish out.

#2 See If Your Dog Prefers Canned Food

Canned food is a good option for dogs who have sensitive gums or who do not like dry food. Wet foods can run on the more expensive side compared to dry food, so do your shopping before buying.

#3 Try Semi-moist Foods

Semi-moist food is usually about 60% water when weighed. 

This type of food may be enjoyed by your dog, but remember, it can contain more sugar and sodium than dry or canned food.

Doggie Treats

#4 Talk To An Animal Nutritionist About A Raw Food Diet

Raw food diets have become very popular lately. They have many benefits and dogs have been thriving on them for years. However, not every dog is going to enjoy raw food so if your dog turns away from it, do not force it at them.

Talk to an animal nutritionist before introducing your dog to raw food so you know how to prepare it and how much to feed them.

#5 Never Feed Your Dog Certain Human Foods

Just because some food is healthy for humans does not mean it is healthy for dogs.

Never just assume your dog can eat something, and always do your research before feeding.

Alcohol

Many people think alcohol is safe for dogs, but it can actually cause them to be drunk and is hard on their liver. It is best to avoid alcohol in all forms.

Avocados

Avocados are not safe for dog consumption, as the pits are highly toxic and are choking hazards.

Grapes And Raisins

These two foods are very toxic for dogs and can cause liver and kidney failure.

The smallest amount of these two things can cause serious health issues, so do not keep these in dogs reach in your house.

Chocolate

This is common knowledge, and yet, chocolate accidents still happen with dogs. Always keep your chocolate away from your dog and never allow them to have a piece.

A safe alternative to chocolate is unsweetened carob chips, which can be found at most grocery stores.

Any Food Containing The Sweetener Xylitol

This sweetener is common in baked goods, gum, and coffee sweeteners. It is best to avoid bringing this sweetener into the house because it is highly toxic to dogs.

Check all peanut butter you feed your dog too because this sweetener is found in a lot of peanut butter brands. 

Xylitol can cause vomiting, seizures, and liver failure.

Coffee And Tea

These are two dangerous chemicals for dogs to consume mainly because of the caffeine content.

Keep tea bags, coffee beans, and coffee and tea pods away from dogs.

Fruit Pits And Apple Seeds

Pits and seeds are dangerous for dogs to consume because the pits and seeds contain poison and are also choking hazards.

Be careful when eating fruit in the house and ensure that you responsibly dispose of the fruit pits and seeds.

Garlic And Onions

The pungent flavor of garlic and onions may be appetizing to dogs, but do not feed them these foods.

The Allium species (like garlic and onions) are highly dangerous to dogs to ingest and can cause severe stomach upset or death if consumed in large quantities.

Walnuts And Macadamia Nuts

Walnuts and macadamia nuts are delicious but they are not suitable for dogs to eat. If consumed, vomiting, fever, muscle tremors, and weakness can occur.

Dough Made With Yeast

Yeast is unsafe for dogs to consume, so avoid baking dog food with yeast or giving your dogs any treats with yeast in it. 

The ethanol that is produced during yeast fermentation is what can cause dogs to become very ill.

#6 Read The Ingredients Of Dog Food

Always, always, always read the ingredients of dog food. Your dog is unable to read the ingredients so you must do it and make sure your dog can consume everything inside.

If there is anything you are unsure about, ask your vet or research online. 

Some brands of food are healthier than others and you should avoid food that has fillers and additives.

#7 Avoid Giving Your Dog An Excessive Amount Of Treats Or People Food

It is hard to not give your dog all the treats in the world when they stare at you with those puppy dog eyes.

However, you should avoid overfeeding your dog treats because this can cause them to become too full to eat their meals or consume too many calories which can cause weight gain.

You should avoid feeding them people’s food as well because there can be many ingredients in people’s food that are unsafe for dogs.

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#8 Give Your Dog Water

Your dog should always have access to clean drinking water, especially in the warmer months of the year. 

Always leave a bowl of water out for your dog to drink from during the day and night.

#9 Medicines And Poisons

There are many medicines and poisons that you should keep away from your dog. 

Birth control pills, ADD medications, antidepressants, harsh household cleaners like bleach should all be kept out of your dog’s reach.

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How to Determine The Feeding Amounts And Frequency For your Puppy?

Your puppy will need more or less food depending on its age. 

Your vet should be able to let you know the appropriate amount of food for your dog, and you should take into consideration your dog’s exercise level also.

Feed Multiple Times A Day

Your dog should eat between 2-3 meals per day and no more than that.

Two meals are standard, but if your dog is active then 3 meals may be best.

  • Age 6-12 Weeks

This age group should eat four meals per day and are usually still nursing from their mother.

This is probably the only time your dog will eat four meals per day because they are rapidly growing and developing during this stage.

  • Age 3-6 Months

This age range should be eating around three meals per day because they are still developing and are running around lots.

Try to avoid lots of treats during this phase so your puppy eats their meals.

  • Age 6-12 Months

By this age, your puppy will be beginning to mature and should only need two meals per day.

However, depending on his or her activity levels, they may need three.

Alter The Amount Of Food Based On Your Dog’s Body Condition

Depending on how big your dog is or how small it is, you may need to adjust the amount of food they eat. 

Dogs who are overweight will need less food, and dogs who are very active will need more.

Breeds like Great Danes or Rhodesian Ridgebacks will need lots of good food, but dogs like Pugs or Chihuahuas will need less.

Follow The Manufacturer’s Feeding Recommendations

Each manufacturer will have different feeding recommendations because every food is different. It is especially important to take this into consideration if you switch your dog’s food.

Always read the recommendations and follow them. 

If you still have questions about the feeding recommendations then ask your veterinarian.

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What Can Be Some Good Bathroom Routine Practice For Your Puppy?

You should set a regular bathroom routine for your puppy because dogs like routine.​ 

I always take my dogs out in the morning at 7 am and at night at 7 pm. This set schedule helps them remember when they should go to the bathroom.

After You Get Up From Bed

Try making a point of taking your dog out after you get up in the morning.

Not only will your dog get a chance to relieve themselves after a long night, but the fresh air will help you wake up.

Before Puppy’s Bedtime

Your puppy should be given the chance to relieve him/herself before they go to bed.

It will help them sleep better if they can relieve their bladder, and can help prevent any accidents from happening during the night while you are sleeping.

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Urgently After The Dog Takes Some Food

After your dog has a meal, you may want to let them out in the yard to go to the bathroom.

Especially after they drink a lot of water, they should be let out to urinate.

Once The Puppy Drinks A Lot Of Water

Again, always let your puppy out to urinate after they drink a lot of water.

In the hot summer months when your puppy drinks more, they should be let out even more frequently to urinate because they will be sweating more.

After The Dog Wakes Up From A Nap

After your dog wakes up from a nap, you should let them out to urinate. During sleep, their systems rejuvenate and your dog may have to pee when they wake up.

During And After Physical Activity

As your dog plays and runs, they may feel the need to go to the bathroom.

This is ok if they are outside and there is grass, but if they are inside playing you should let them outside to do their business.

Crate Train A Puppy

What Are Some Easy Grooming Ideas For Dogs?

Just like the way you keep yourself groomed, you should keep your dog groomed the same. 

You may choose to groom your dog yourself or take it to the groomers.

#1 Keep The Puppy’s Teeth Clean

Your puppy’s oral hygiene should be a big priority of yours, as you want to prevent any gum disease from occurring.

Brush your puppy’s teeth yourself or get a dog groomer to brush them for you.

#2 Trim The Dog’s Nails On Time

Your dog’s nails should be kept trimmed at all times because if not, it could cause pain or difficulty when walking.

You may want to get a professional to trim your dog’s nails for you because you do not want to cut them too short and cause bleeding.

#3 Give The Puppy Some Good Brushing On Regular Basis

This is especially important if your dog has a long coat. Regular brushing is good for keeping your puppy’s coat healthy and matte-free.

#4 Check Puppy’s Skin While Brushing

Always do a skin check while brushing your puppy. This is a great time to look for any bumps, lumps, scratches, or bleeding.

Be careful to not brush too hard either.

#5 Give The Dog A Bath Per Month

Whether you bathe your dog yourself or take it to the groomer’s, this should be done once per month.

Your dog does not want to feel dirty or smell, so keep them clean so your nose and their nose stays happy.

What Are Some Common And Easy Exercising Habits For Your Dog?

Your dog should be given regular exercise no matter how big or small.

Exercise is great for keeping their heart and bones healthy.

#1 Take Your Dog For Walks

Every day you should take your dog for a walk, whether it be for 15 minutes or 1 hour.

Walks are also a great bonding experience for you and your dog.

#2 Talk To Your Vet About Exercising A Dog With Medical Issues

Dogs that have medical issues need different levels of exercise. 

Always ask your vet what a suitable amount of exercise is for your dog if they have medical issues. If your dog has joint issues, you should avoid any strenuous exercise.

Puppy Not To Bark

#3 Play A Game With Your Dog

Playing with your dog is an important part of bonding.

Your dog should have lots of toys to play with and you should engage in play with your dog at least once a day.

​#4 Check The Weather Before You Go Outside

A dog-poncho is a great way to keep your dog dry in the rain, and a sweater will keep them warm in the winter.

Check the weather before you go outside so you and your dog can dress appropriately.

House Training Your Dog

It is important to house train your dog so that you can prevent accidents from occurring.

If you spend a couple of hours a day house-training your dog it will be sufficient.

Choose A Spot Where You’d Like Your Dog To Relieve Himself

From the minute you bring your puppy home, you should direct him or her to the area where you’d like them to relieve themselves. This means you will have to watch your dog carefully for signs of needing to use the bathroom.

I installed a doggy door on my back door and my dog uses it if he needs to go.

Take Your Dog Outside Frequently In The Beginning

Your dog should not be cooped up inside.

So frequently taking them outside from the beginning will allow him to get used to going for walks, playing in the backyard, and going to the bathroom outside.

Watch For Signs That Your Dog Needs To Relieve Himself

Your dog may whimper, cry, or scratch a door when they need to use the bathroom, so make sure you listen to those sounds.

Remember, a dog does not have the ability to use words to tell you he or she needs to go to the bathroom, so you need to know the signs.

Give Your Dog Lots Of Immediate Praise

When your dog goes to the bathroom in the spot you wanted them to, give them immediate praise.

This could be saying “Good job!” enthusiastically, scratching behind their ears, clapping your hands, or even giving them a treat.

Carry Baggies To Clean Up Solid Waste

Always carry a dog bag in your pocket when out for a walk so that you can pick up your dog’s waste.

Avoid leaving it on people’s lawns or public places because this is rude to the owner or other parkgoers.

Confine Your Dog To A Small Indoor Space Until He Or She Is House Trained

Your dog should not roam the house freely when they are not house trained because this could lead to unwanted accidents in areas of the house.

Keep your dog in a small indoor space until he or she is house trained.

Crate Train Your Dog

Crate training your dog is good for when you have to leave them alone during the day. Always keep lots of toys, blankets, and fresh drinking water in the crate for your dog to entertain himself with.

Crate training is also great for creating healthy separation.

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Socializing Your Dog

In order to keep your dog happy, you must socialize him or her lots!

Your dog should be exposed to various sights and sounds, other dogs, and people.

Use Rewards For Good Behavior

Treats and toys are good rewards for dogs who express good behavior.

I always keep a handful of treats on me at all times so I can be ready to reward my dog’s good behavior.

Introduce Your Dog To Normal Household Activity

Household activities like vacuuming, visitors, music, and lawnmowers are all things you should introduce to your dog too.

Dogs can develop fears of sounds they are unsure of, so expose your puppy to them now.

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Take Your Dog To A Dog Park

The dog park can be lots of fun for your dog to run around and meet new doggy friends!

Try taking them to the dog park as often as possible, and who knows, you might meet some new friends too!

Try A Puppy Socialization Class

If dog parks are not your thing, try a puppy socialization class.

Your puppy will be able to meet other puppies and get the proper socialization help he or she may need; it is a worthwhile investment.

The Bond Between You And Your Dog

The bond you establish between you and your dog will last for years to come.

But, there are a few things you must do from the moment you bring your dog home to secure this bond.

Treating Your Dog With Respect And Love

Just like you would to any other family member, your dog deserves to be treated with respect and love.

Never scream or hit your dog, and always try to understand that you are the only thing your dog has.

Register Your Dog And Put Tags On Its Collar

Always register your dog and secure ID tags on its collar. This way, if your sweet puppy gets lost, whoever finds him or her can look at its tags and give you a call.

Remember, your dog does not have a voice to tell someone where they live!

Be Aware That Your Dog Has Basic Needs That Need To Be Fulfilled

Dogs have needs just like people do.

Make sure your dog has shelter, warmth, food, water, exercise, and love.

Why Do Dogs Poop Against A Tree

Make Sure Your Dog Has Access To A Comfortable Place To Sleep And Is Not Left Out In Extreme Temperatures

Your dog should never be left out in extreme temperatures, such as in the hot summer months and frigid winter months. 

Bring your dog inside and keep them warm so they do not freeze or overheat outside. Your dog should have a comfortable place to sleep and never be left outside when it is too cold or too hot.

Build A Bond With Your Dog

You and your dog should build a bond of mutual love and respect by playing together, sleeping together, and enjoying life together.

The more your dog grows to trust you the more you two will have a healthy and happy relationship.

Dog Constipation: Causes, Symptoms

The Scoop On Poop

There is a lot to know about your dog’s poop.

Yes, it is not a glamorous topic but it is an important one!

Check Your Dog’s Poop Every Day

Your dog’s poop can tell you a lot about how they are feeling. If it is diarrhea-like, then they may be experiencing an upset stomach.

If their poop is solid, then they should be feeling healthy. If your canine’s poop is very yellow, then this could be a sign of too much bile being excreted.

Poop can be confusing, so always monitor it and ask your vet if you are concerned about something.

How To Increase Your Dog’s Patience?

The more patient your dog is the better it will be for you. There are many easy ways to train your dog to be more patient, and this will benefit your dog’s socialization skills more.

You can try placing a toy in front of your dog and telling him or her to “leave it”, and if they leave it for 30 seconds you can give them a treat.

Try placing a light object on your dog’s head and get him or her to stay still with it. After 30 seconds, reward with a treat.

A quick search online can provide you with many great ways to practice patience with your dog!

Learn: How To Train Your Puppy Not To Bark? 

Final Thoughts

There are so many important things to consider before bringing a new puppy home. However, take your time preparing your house and your life because you do not want to forget anything vital!

A new puppy means you are bringing home a new friend and family member to love and learn with.

Hopefully, now you can consider yourself a puppy expert!

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