Welcoming a New Pup into Your Home
Just a little while longer and you’ll be bringing home your new pup! How thrilled you must be!
Have you gathered all the supplies? Do you have puppy food stocked up for the upcoming weeks? Is your living space pet proofed?
If you’ve ticked off all these boxes then you’re all set for your canine companion! But here’s another thing to ponder; what’s your game plan for when your puppy arrives?
Taking care of a puppy requires dedication during the initial adjustment period. You can’t simply introduce one into your household and expect it to settle in right away. Remember, dogs thrive on routines and habits. That’s why having a plan in place for the puppy’s arrival is crucial.
Here are three key steps to keep in mind when welcoming a pup into your abode; consider taking some time off work to ensure proper nutrition for your dog and kick off training promptly.
Take Time Off
Puppies are typically around six to eight weeks old when they join their families. Prior to adoption, they have never been apart from their mother and littermates. Transitioning to an environment with unfamiliar faces can be incredibly stressful for them.
As a dog owner, it’s important to play an active role in helping your furry friend feel comfortable in their new environment. Consider taking some time off from work to focus on bonding with your pup.
The initial week with your companion will bring a mix of excitement and exhaustion. Introduce them to all members of your household as well as any other pets you may have. Help them get accustomed to responding to their name and hearing your voice. At times they might whimper due to missing their previous family. It’s best to ignore this behaviour but offer praise or treats when they calm down. Over time, your pet will grow more accustomed to your presence, although it may take up to six weeks for them to fully settle into their home.
Feed It Well
Your puppy is likely already weaned by the time you bring them home. If you acquire them from a breeder, they may provide you with some dog food for the next few days along with a feeding schedule.
In the beginning, follow the breeder’s guidelines regarding food choices and portions. As time goes on, consider transitioning them onto a formula tailored for their size and age that comes recommended for optimal nutrition.
Ensure your furry friend gets a balanced diet by selecting foods rich in nutrients such as protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. If you’re uncertain about what to feed your doggo, seek advice from your vet. Refer to the feeding recommendations on the dog food packaging.
Puppies who have transitioned from their mother’s milk can now enjoy solid meals. Opt for soft options like canned or dehydrated foods. If you prefer kibble for your pup, consider softening it with warm water before serving. Remember to steer clear of harmful foods like onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, and chocolate.
Train It Right Away
The moment your pup enters your home marks the beginning of training sessions. Early training is essential for dogs to develop and reinforce their skills; delaying it could lead to challenges in the future.
Around seven to eight weeks old, introduce commands like sit, stay and come to your pup. It’s important for them to get comfortable with touch too. Spend time gently touching their ears and paws while praising them for good behaviour.
Between eight to ten weeks old is a time to initiate leash training. Start by letting them wear a collar or harness indoors for short periods daily. Gradually extend the duration as they become accustomed to it.
Some key things to teach your puppy include crate training and potty training. While some dogs pick up on these skills quickly, others may need time to learn. Dogs vary in their learning pace depending on their breed and temperament. Although dogs are generally intelligent, some can be quite stubborn. Training a dog can be a challenge for any dog owner but fortunately there are expert dog trainers available to provide assistance.
Welcome to DoGoodDoggy!
Are you finding it difficult to get your puppy to obey your commands?
No need to worry!
At DoGoodDoggy, we offer support for busy dog parents dealing with the challenges of training their puppies. Our team comprises professionals who specialise in handling both young and older dogs. Through the use of training techniques, we guarantee remarkable results in just 35 days!
Don’t Give Up - We are Here!
We recognise that training a puppy can pose challenges for first time dog owners or those with busy schedules. If you’re having trouble moulding your puppy into a behaved canine companion, you’ve landed in the right place. The DoGoodDoggy approach streamlines the process of shaping your pup into a content and well-adjusted adult dog.
Our goal is to offer top notch puppy training to our DoGoodDoggy community, enabling them to embark on a wonderful journey with their new furry companions.
