Josh Billings

Puppy Preparations

As you prepare for your new puppy, we ask that every family read at least one of the books below.  They will make a tremendous difference in the adjustment of a puppy in your home.  Very few people know how to handle dogs or what dogs respond to...most of the issues are not with the dog.  :)

• Raising Puppies & Kids Together by Pia Silvani & Lynn Eckhardt

• The Puppy Primer by Patricia McConnell

• Perfect Puppy in 7 Days by Sophia Yin (with lots of  pictures)

• How to Behave So Your Dog Behaves by Sophia Yin

• Before You Get Your Puppy by Ian Dunbar (only approx 50 pages and FREE)

 

Typical Daily Routine

Sticking to a routine will be one of the best things you can do for your new puppy.  The puppy will begin to sleep less and play more over time, so adjust your schedule as needed.  Make a schedule that works for both your family and the puppy.  Determine who is responsible for food, water, playtime, training, pooper scooper duty, clean up duty for accidents, cuddle time, and grooming so everyone knows what to expect.  

 

Don't forget to...O

• Order your first bag of dog food from me

• Sign up for puppy training class as soon as possible. 

• Pick a name

• Find a vet - make an appointment within 3 days of bringing home your puppy

• Puppy proof your home - move items up higher, block off the house / garden plants that are poisonous to dogs, toilet lid down so to avoid a tragic puppy accident.

• Daily leash training and walks will help to bond you and your puppy.  It is important to get your puppy accustomed to new sights and sounds as he adjusts to new environments.

•  Fence - put in a fence.  It can be traditional or electric. Many have wished they had gotten their physical fence sooner.

• Order a name tag that has your phone number on it.

• Purchase supplies - crate (helps with potty training, keeps them safe, it's like a bedroom of their own.  Find one with a divider so it grows with your puppy. , food & water dishes, food.  

• Toys!!! - Your puppy needs to chew.  Toys provide entertainment, relief from boredom and teething.  They can also help clean their teeth.  If they chew it up, tear it apart or open it up, take it away immediately or it may cause a blockage which could require surgery.  Stronger toys include strong rubber and nylon and rope toys.  Treat or food dispensing toys for food motivated puppies are great.  Bully sticks and hooves are better than rawhide as they breakdown.

• Insurance - Decide if you want to buy insurance. 

• Find a puppy playgroup - visit prior to bringing your puppy home to see how the dogs interact.  Do not participate until a week after your puppy has had all their vaccinations.  

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            Some of these ideas/ suggestions and picture are courtesy of Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles.

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