Is there really anything else that is more exciting than welcoming a new puppy into the family? The first few days, new puppies are often cautious, spending lots of time watching and sleeping. However, by day three - all bets are off - and puppy chaos ensues! Raising a puppy certainly comes with its challenges and responsibilities. Here are my very top tips for transitioning a new puppy into your family.
New puppies are as curious and adventurous as toddlers - and because of this often find themselves in loads of trouble. Take a look around your home for things that a new puppy might find exciting - indoor plants, electrical cords, kid’s toys and low-lying rubbish bins. Investing in baby gates is a great way to restrict access to off-limits areas, especially at the very beginning. These are also great if you’ve got cat’s in the home, who will appreciate a safe refuge.
Definitely do your research when it comes to bringing a new puppy into the family. Dog breeds have been very intentionally selected and bred over many hundreds, sometimes thousands of years - their temperament and disposition is often genetically engineered within them. For instance, if you’re wanting a quiet dog - stick well clear from the Huskies known for their singing. If you live in an apartment, is a working, herding border collie really a good match for you?
This is also really important when it comes to advocating for your pet’s health. Puppyhood is a key period to be proactive about your puppy’s healthcare - knowing health predispositions for your puppy breed will go a long way to prevent chronic health problems.
The classical example is airway management for short-faced breeds such as bulldogs and pugs. However, did you know that other breeds benefit from early interventional health strategies - including poodles and their crosses, rottweilers, pointers, great danes, mastiffs, sharpeis, labradors and golden retrievers, just to name a few?
Socialisation is critical for puppies to grow up to be well-adjusted when it comes to interacting with other dogs, people and the world in general. Socialisation means exposing your puppy to various people, animals, and environments from a young age and framing these experiences as positive. The puppy vaccination that we use at VetLand allows for an early finish of the vaccination schedule for many puppies, allowing them to safely begin this socialisation at quite a young age - from only 12 weeks!
Positive experiences during socialisation will help your puppy become a well-rounded and confident adult dog and minimise the risk of severe behavioural problems such as anxiety, separational stress and aggression. Puppy school is essential for all puppies - whether this is your first, or twenty first puppy. This is a unique experience outside of their typical comfort zone and is of maximum benefit in a very narrow age window, from 8 - 16 weeks old.
Dogs thrive on routines. Establishing a consistent daily schedule for feeding, potty breaks, exercise, and playtime will help your puppy feel secure and confident in their new home. Puppies need frequent bathroom breaks, so be prepared to take them outside every few hours, especially after eating or playing. Crate training is fabulous tool for both potty training and providing your puppy with a safe space when you're not around. Crate-trained dogs love their crate, and will use it as an indoor kennel.
Ensuring your puppy's health and well-being is paramount, puppy time is when they are laying the foundations that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Professional advice regarding their behaviour, nutrition, interventional health care procedures and parasite control are key ingredients for success. Your family vet will give the best advice about all of these areas - but it doesn’t hurt to do your research and ask plenty of questions. Be vigilant about keeping your puppy's vaccinations up to date, as this helps protect them from various diseases.
Also, consider getting pet insurance to help manage unexpected veterinary expenses. At VetLand, many puppies are eligible to join our Peace of Mind membership program, unlocking huge discounts on premium health care and allied services!
So, all that being said - welcoming a new puppy into your family is one of the best experiences but it does come with responsibilities. By puppy-proofing your home, getting familiar with your puppy's breed, socialising your puppy, establishing a routine, and prioritising healthcare, you can set the foundation for a happy and well-adjusted canine companion.
Remember that patience and love are the essential ingredients in the journey of raising a puppy.