Five Ways to Prepare for a Puppy

At Deceased Pet Care, we want to provide you with everything possible to enjoy as much happy and healthy time with your pet as possible. Last month, we talked about the benefits of bringing home a new pet. If you missed it, you can check it out here. This month, we want to set you up for success as your family’s new addition makes his or her home. Without further ado, here are Five Ways to Prepare for a Puppy.

Puppy Proofing
Since much thought has been put into adding a new member of the family, we want to make sure you put just as much effort into preparations for welcoming your new pup home. Make sure you hide or wrap all cords as they can often morph into dangerous chew toys. Put away all loose food, especially chocolate, salts, sugars, and fats as these can be detrimental to a puppy’s young digestive track. Place pet gates by stairs, and make sure any rodent poison and traps are out of reach from curious noses.

Words of Affirmation
Let’s admit it, we all love encouragement a lot more than chastisement. Shouts, smacks, and rolled up newspaper are not acceptable forms of training for your puppy. These types of disciplinary actions can lead to fear and social anxiety; both of which can cause significant problems in the future. Instead of punishing or shouting, a firm “NO” will suffice. Also, encourage ten times more than you punish. Praise your puppy for good deeds! We want them to know where they are succeeding, not just pointing out their shortcomings.

Food Fights
The puppy years are paramount for the future of a puppy's health. Make sure you have food that is made specifically for the digestive system of puppies. Adult food simply won’t do. Check online for your specific breed’s needs, but the general rule is: Ages 6-12 weeks = 4 meals, ages 3-6 months = 3 meals, and ages 6 months or more = 2 meals. Overfeeding and underfeeding can lead to future complications so make sure your puppy is receiving adequate nutrition, but not excess.

Bathroom Breaks
It’s very important you train your puppy for proper bathroom habits at a young age. Pads are a great intermediary, but full training is needed as soon as possible. When bathroom training remember the three “P’s”: patience, planning, and praise. Also, set a schedule. It’s very important your pet knows when relief is coming. We recommend first thing in the morning, before bed, and right before each meal to start. It’s a large commitment, but it will save you tons of frustration in the future. Treats are a great affirmation tool as well. If your pet is frequenting in the house, analyze your schedule before dishing out discipline.

A Safe Place
Chances are, especially if your puppy is newborn, he or she will experience some separation anxiety. We recommend having your family members take shifts to spend time with the puppy round the clock. Snuggles, hugs, and gentle petting is welcomed. It should only take about three to four days for your new puppy to understand this new place is home; a loving supportive one at that.

We think a puppy is one of the best investments you can make for you and your family. At Deceased Pet Care, we live for the joy family pets bring, and we want you to experience that joy and happiness too. Do you have any important tips for caring for a new puppy? Let’s us know in the comments below. Until next time have a happy, healthy, and fulfilling day alongside your pet.

Imagecredit: happypuppypics.com