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Adopting A Pau ? Know the Basic Before You Sign The Paper ?
Handle the Pup Fimrly ,But Gently
Adopting a Pup? Know the Basics Before You Sign the Papers
Raising a puppy to a healthy and happy full-grown dog isn’t rainbows and sunshine as any dog trainer will tell.
Owners are required to put as much effort, care and love into raising a puppy as they would their own child!
Still thinking of adopting a puppy? Raising your pup into a well-balanced, healthy and happy adult dog requires careful adherence to the following!
Puppies go through an impressionable age at 16 weeks which means owners must inculcate desirable behaviors at this age. Proper handling of the animal as soon as you bring him home is expected, even if your puppy hasn’t been vaccinated. You need to do the following every day, without fail.
Handle the Pup Firmly, but Gently
Gentleness is required as your puppy won’t be used to being handled by a stranger. Turn the puppy over on his back (when least expecting or wanting the contact) and count to ten. Don’t let your puppy go until you have counted to ten or feel the pup is relaxing under your touch. The idea here is to promote trust, which is why you must handle your puppy firmly yet gently and with confidence.
At a different time, examine your pup’s teeth and tongue closely. Get your fingers right into its mouth.
Handle feet, one at a time by separating the toes. This exercise should be performed daily as your pup will start to get used to being handled like this, which will make it easier to clip nails, pull out thorns, etc. later. Early handling of the puppy will help you (and the pup) when it comes to being handled, groomed or treated later on.
Early Socializing With Other Animals, Dogs, and Humans
Introductions may already have been made with other household members but proper socializing comes soon after the puppy settles in his new surroundings. You don’t even have to fully vaccinate the puppy yet! By socializing we mean:
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- Your puppy can meet cats or other pets
- Your puppy can meet healthy and fully vaccinated dogs
- Your puppy can meet babies and toddlers
Of course caution is advised when introductions are being made in a less formal setting, i.e. play and interaction must be watched over.
Also remember; a tired puppy is a grumpy pup that can show mild aggression by biting. This isn’t your pet’s fault. Make sure to reprimand if this behavior continues.
Start Basic Training from the Minute Puppy Arrives
It’s a good idea to implement basic training in your puppy’s everyday routine so that he can get used to more comprehensive training later on.
Incorporate an easily recognizable behavior framework that your puppy can quickly adopt and get used to. Dogs are naturally dominant animals but you can teach them who the alpha is by providing clear instructions from the get-go.
A puppy who knows what is expected of him will be happier! You must also specify a feeding schedule in this period and encourage good behavior with healthy dog chews or treats.
Expert dog trainers recommend attending puppy training classes for better results. This will make the foundation for future years of happiness and health for your dog!
Refer to Royal Dog Chew for your dog’s healthy treat requirements.
