Whether you are just about to get your first puppy or have just brought home a new furry friend here are a few tips to help you survive this cute but sometimes challenging stage.
Crates
Having a crate is a wonderful tool not only for housebreaking but to keep your puppies safe when you are not able to watch over them. Puppies have an amazing talent for getting into trouble when not supervised (and sometimes even when they are!). Crates also provide a quiet and comfortable escape when the puppy needs a nap or just wants a break from a hectic household.
When choosing a crate, make sure it is either just large enough for your puppy to turn around in (otherwise they may go potty at one end and sleep at the other) or it comes with a divider to adjust it to the appropriate size.
Depending on the layout of your home, you may also want to invest in some metal baby gates or an x-pen (essentially a metal version of a play pen) to restrict access until they are older.
Toys Toys Toys
Buying a variety of chew toys particularly ones that can be frozen, will satisfy a puppy’s need to chew. Keep in mind that your puppy is growing, therefore you will probably need to increase the size of the toys after a few months (or sooner if you have a giant breed) to prevent the puppy from swallowing the toy.
When your puppy won’t calm down
When your puppy won’t settle having a vest or shirt that you can slip on along with playing soft music will go a long way to make your puppy feel secure and calm. This is a good way for puppies to understand that it’s quiet time.
It’s Never To Early To Start Training
Training your puppy while they are young will go a long way to having a well behaved adult dog. Short but frequent sessions are a great way to keep your puppy focused (pups have short attention spans). Providing your puppy with mental stimulation is just as important as exercising your dog and training is a useful way to do just that.
It’s Okay To Feel That Way
Most puppy books don’t tell you that having a puppy can be a bit like having a new baby. Little sleep, a change in your routine, and feeling a bit overwhelmed when you bring home your first puppy is normal. Soon your pup will be sleeping peacefully throughout the night and so will you. In the meantime, if you feel particularly frustrated, take a break or talk to someone who’s been through it before. They can reassure you that unlike a human child it’s only for a little while and soon you will wonder how you ever lived without a dog!