Are You Ready For A New Puppy?

• Puppies require 3-4 meals per day and immediate bathroom breaks after meals for successful house training.
• Puppies cannot be left alone for extended periods, and they often wake up frequently at night.
• Young puppies are curious and love to explore and chew their environment, requiring constant supervision and a dog-proofed home to ensure their safety.
• Regular obedience training and socialization sessions are necessary and time-consuming.
• Regular exercise and play are vital to a puppy's overall development and well-being.

Choosing the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle

• Adult size: Larger breeds require more space and their upkeep can be more costly.
• Activity level: Can you match the exercise needs of an energetic breed?
• Coat: Are you prepared to manage regular shedding or professional grooming needs?
• Temperament: Do you prefer a calm lap dog or a more lively, playful pup?

• Animal shelters or rescues: If possible, adopting from an animal shelter or rescue should be your first choice. Mixed breeds are often underrated and make excellent companions.
• Ethical, experienced breeders: For a purebred puppy, locate a reputable breeder who conducts thorough health checks. Avoid pet stores and backyard breeders.

• Questions for breeders:
  • Do they possess a breeder's license, if required in your area?
  • Can puppies be viewed with the mother on-site, in the place they were born and raised?
  • Have the parents been health-tested for all common inherited diseases in the breed?
  • How many litters has the mother had? More than four can be concerning.
  • How old is the mother dog? Ideally, she should be between 1-8 years old for best welfare.
  • What is included in their health guarantee, should issues arise?
  • At what age can puppies go home with their new families? The minimum age should be 8 weeks.
  • Can you revisit the puppy before taking them home?
• What to look for when visiting:
  • Healthy, lively puppies at a good weight, with no signs of disease or distress.
  • A clean living area with adequate food, water, bedding, and stimulation for the pups.
  • Evidence of regular vet checks, weight monitoring, deworming, and initial vaccinations.
  • Well-socialized puppies that are used to being handled and exposed to various sounds and textures.
  • A healthy mother dog with a good temperament, who appears well cared for.
  • A willingness to take back any puppy if the owner can no longer provide adequate care.

• Keep electrical cords, cleaning agents, and other potentially toxic household items out of reach.
• Use baby gates to restrict access to certain rooms, and supervise your puppy at all times.
• Place houseplants and small objects out of reach to avoid accidental ingestion.
• Invest in a crate and toys to discourage chewing on inappropriate items.

• Leash, collar with ID tag, food and water bowls, and puppy-appropriate food
• A roomy dog bed and crate for comfort and security
• A variety of toys to cater to their different needs - interactive, chew, and snuggle types
• Brush and grooming tools suitable for their coat type
• Pet stain remover for inevitable accidents

• Find a conveniently located, affordable vet with a solid reputation.
• Visit the office to meet the staff and familiarize yourself with the facility.
• Provide all medical records obtained from the breeder or adoption source.
• Discuss the next steps in vaccination schedules and overall wellness care.

• Feed your puppy high-quality food that's appropriate for their breed size and age.
• Begin house training and obedience training immediately, using positive reinforcement methods.
• Expose your puppy to various situations, people, and pets for comprehensive socialization.
• Stick to the recommended vaccine schedule to prevent potentially life-threatening diseases.
• Establish a routine for feeding, potty breaks, training, exercise, and play time.

• Comfortable Dog Carrier: A sturdy, well-ventilated carrier will help keep your puppy secure during transit. Make sure it's spacious enough for them to move around, but snug enough to make them feel secure.
• Cosy Blanket: The familiarity of a cosy blanket can provide comfort and warmth. Consider getting a blanket that smells like their mother or littermates if possible. This familiar scent can be soothing during the unsettling experience of transition.
• Food and Water: For longer journeys, it's essential to have some food and water on hand. However, try to avoid feeding your puppy during the car ride to prevent motion sickness.

• Quiet Environment: It's natural for your puppy to feel anxious or scared during this period. A quiet, peaceful environment can help minimize stress and help them feel more secure.
• Carrier Settling: Position your puppy comfortably in their carrier. You might want to include a soft toy for them to cuddle up to for comfort.
• Limited Handling: If your puppy is nervous, limit handling by multiple adults or children. Too much stimulation can increase their stress levels.
• Adequate Space and Fresh Air: Make sure your puppy has enough space and fresh air during the journey. Avoid wrapping them too tightly in blankets or confining them in small, stuffy spaces.
• Comforting Your Puppy: If your puppy shows signs of distress, such as whimpering or restlessness, take a moment to sit quietly and gently comfort them. A soft voice and gentle petting can be reassuring.
• Comfort Breaks and Spare Bedding: Puppies may urinate due to nervousness or excitement. Allow for comfort breaks if it's a long journey and bring spare bedding just in case of accidents.

• Take Time Off Work: Spend the first two to three days at home with your new puppy to establish trust and routine. Consider working from home if you can't take leave.
• Start Potty Training Immediately: As soon as you arrive home, take your puppy to their designated potty area and praise them when they eliminate. Set up a routine with hourly potty breaks.
• Supervised Exploration: Let your puppy explore their new home under supervision. Encourage their exploration with praise and treats, while redirecting any unwanted behaviors.
• Keep the Environment Calm: Maintain a quiet and relaxed environment for your puppy to adjust to their new surroundings. Avoid inviting people over immediately after your puppy's arrival.
• Use Your Puppy's Name Often: Frequently use your puppy's name in daily interactions and during training sessions to help them learn it. Reward them with treats and praise during these sessions.
• Engage in Play Time: Spend plenty of time playing with your puppy to bond and help them burn off excess energy. Play games involving their toys.
• Begin Crate Training: Start crate training as a safe and controlled environment for your puppy when you can't supervise them. A properly introduced crate can become a secure place for rest and can assist with potty training and routine establishment.
• Monitor Nap Times: Allow your puppy to nap during the day but avoid letting them sleep too close to bedtime. This ensures they're tired enough to sleep through the night.
• Limit Food and Water Before Bed: Pull food and water three hours before bedtime to reduce the likelihood of nighttime accidents.
• Nighttime Potty Breaks: Wake up for potty breaks every 3-4 hours during the night. Avoid playing with your puppy after these breaks; simply put them back in their crate. Let them cry it out if they do; don't give in as they might associate crying with attention.

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