James Wellbeloved

New puppy owners: what you need to know

 

Getting a new puppy is one of the greatest joys any pet owner can feel, and it is a time to be excited – but it’s important to know what you’re getting into and what is required of a good pet owner. All dogs have different requirements, and there are some important things to remember to help keep them healthy and happy.

 

Puppies are curious and energetic 

Puppies are curious and energetic, often more so than adult dogs. It is important to know how much to feed your puppy to help them grow up healthy and strong. Give them toys to play with, but don’t be afraid to let them explore other objects around the house as well so they become familiar – just be sure to supervise them so they don’t eat your remote control or hurt themselves.

We also recommend baby-proofing gardens and stairs so your puppy doesn’t accidentally escape or find themselves trapped.  

 

Protection

As soon as your puppy is exposed to the outdoors and other dogs, they are at risk of catching infections; their first outing should be to your local vet to begin their vaccination treatment.

It is a legal requirement to get your puppy microchipped, so this would be a good opportunity to do both. Microchipping is cheap and painless and will give you some peace of mind in case your puppy ever goes missing.

Finally, your vet will be your number one advisor about keeping your dog healthy throughout their lifetime. Introduce them early and let them start to build a bond.  

 

Socialising is important

Once your puppy has received its vaccinations and they are cleared to go for walks in public places, begin socialising with other dogs.

This might be a bit scary for your puppy at first, but you can control the situation by keeping them on the lead and introducing them to other dogs slowly.

Meeting a variety of dogs of different sizes, ages and temperaments will help your dog start learning the dos and don’ts of doggy etiquette.

 

Consistency pays off

Like teaching boundaries to children, it’s important to do the same with your new puppy. Introduce them to your rules and start training them early on so they respond to your commands.

Help them get used to spending time alone from the beginning. Don’t make a big deal out of hellos and goodbyes, and even if you spend a lot of time at home, giving your puppy a few positive sessions alone in their crate or room will help reduce separation anxiety in the long run.

It is important to remember that your new puppy will look to you as their companion and their protector. By giving them the medical and social protection they need early on, you’ll prove yourself to be a good and caring pet owner.

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