So you want to bring home a puppy? Puppies can be a fun and enjoyable experience. They are cute and cuddly, and it pains us all to see them grow up. Of course, many of us think this because the puppy isn't ours. HA! That cute and cuddly pup is also a little ball of destruction if you are NOT on your toes. Many do not realize the challenge of a puppy. The exposure in the first 4 months of a puppy's life will mold and impact its entire life. Training and socializing are key to a happy, well-rounded, and stable pup.
Choosing the right puppy is the first step. When you chose your pup, whether it's from a breeder or a rescue, take note of the activity and energy level. At 8 weeks, pups are developing the beginning of their personalities, whether it be active, laid back, mischievous, or reserved. You also need to know your breed traits as well. Even in a mixed breed pup, the traits are in there, just watered down a bit. Base your selection on your family's activity level. If you are a runner and very active, then an active pup is fine for you. If you are a reserved and laid back family, you may not want to choose the most active, wild, and playful pup of the litter. He will require more exercise as he matures or your furniture and carpet may be a victim to his boredom.
Once you have decided on a pup, introduce him to his new family and household. Decide where the pup will spend the majority of his puppyhood. Will you crate train him or allow free roam in a designated area? Many crate-train their puppy to assist with housebreaking. Decide where the crate will be located, or if you will have multiple crates in the house. I am a firm believer of a pack, so I tend to keep a crate near the bedrooms so the pup can bond with the family even during rest times. Keeping a crate in a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle is wise as well. Everyone needs a cave to withdraw to and have some privacy. The pup will need to learn how to be on his own, to avoid separation anxiety, and this cave crate will provide that. Make sure everyone is "okay" with the puppy. He will need a lot of socializing with all family members, dogs and cats alike, if you want him to be well rounded.
Housebreaking and early training starts immediately. Puppies will eliminate frequently in the early stages. The more water they have, the more they will urinate. Regulate food and water intake on a schedule to help predict and train the puppy when to go. Puppy pads are helpful in the colder seasons and then gradually moving the pads to outdoors to assist in housebreaking the pup. Training can start right away. Teaching the puppy his name and sit are the first and easiest. Start with that then work on impulse control, recalls, and other basic obedience.
Toys, Toys, toys and more toys, will help to save your furniture, shoes, and/important documents. Buy toys of different textures, but stay away from toys that resemble your important items. No need to get him use to those fabrics or textures now. Puppies go thru a teething stage just as humans do, and will need so something to chew on to lessen the soreness of their gums. Soft rubber toys and teething rings that you can freeze are always a good call.
Take the puppy everywhere you can. Get him use to different people of all ages, dogs of all breeds and sizes, cats, squirrels, locations, and noises. One of the biggest problems BiTP works with is leash reactivity associated with other dogs or small animals, and anxiety based fear problems associated with loud noises or fast moving objects. Socializing is a huge must as a puppy, and key to stability as an adult. You MUST expose them to as much as possible in these first months!
While there is a lot to remember and a lot of work to do with your puppy, they are still fun and the most enjoyable learning experience you can have. Take lots of pictures because they grow up fast. We offer a puppy obedience package, and will gladly be there to help introduce your pup to its new home, and guide you every step of the way if you need. Feel free to contact us with questions and concerns with your new pup. Enjoy him, they are pure happiness!
DJF
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