New Puppy Owner Tips. Having a puppy is, of course, a big decision and a big responsibility. Picking the right breed for you, your family and your lifestyle are vital, but remember, every dog is different. Also, there’s no such thing as a bad dog – you must know how to be a good owner. Here are some things I wish I’d been more mindful of before getting Amber.
Tips advice for new puppy owners, always safe and happy
Ideally, I’d have made my garden 100 per cent puppy-proof before Jack arrived. Unfortunately, we live on quite a busy road and have thick hedges all around the park, but Jack managed to find a way through the first time we let him out.
So, it would have been best to have the whole garden adequately fenced before she arrived for his safety and peace of mind.
I also wish I’d stocked up on a selection of different toys. Puppies’ brains are like sponges – just like babies, they need constant mental stimulation (and as much sleep!)
It would help if you had a range of toys with a puppy, something that’s good for tugging and chewing, rattling, squeaking, and crinkling. For example, a puppy Kong is essential when your pup is teething as it gives them something to chew that isn’t your shoes, furniture or, in Jack’s case, my skirting boards! The KONG Classic is the gold standard of dog toys and has become a staple for dogs worldwide for over forty years.
Tips advice for new puppy owners: Choose the best toys for your puppy
You can put Kong paste or dog peanut butter in your Kong and put it in the freezer before giving it to your dog as a special treat. A wide selection of toys, including a rope lion (click here), helps keep dogs’ teeth clean as they chew on it.
This Pig is another great puppy toy as it has different textures for your pup to explore, including rope sections, a ball for chewing on and a squeak. This bovine flatty has teething hooves and a satisfying crinkle to stimulate a curious pup.
Remember, puppies habituate their toys quickly. So be sure to swap toys in and out of the toybox; any new introductions have far more impact.
I also wish I’d been told about the power of toilet roll inners! Put a couple of treats in the cardboard tube, fold the ends in, and have an instant toy, a rattle that attracts your pup’s attention and rewards good behaviour. Jack loves them! And never underestimate the wonder that is a cardboard delivery box.
Dogs love to get in them, push them around and shred them. Once your rolls and boxes are sliced, collect all the scraps and throw them away. The same goes for toys: once they’re damaged, please throw them away; don’t risk your puppy swallowing anything they shouldn’t.
Tips advice for new puppy owners: Keep it clean.
If only I’d known what a lifesaver an oilcloth could be. If you’re having trouble getting your dog to pee on puppy pads or paper while housetraining them, an oilcloth can easily wipe up any messes. They work on hard floors and carpets and are ideal when your puppy flips over their water bowl – which they will! Puppies are naturally curious and will overturn a bowl of food or water if they can. You can stop this happening by buying a heavier ceramic or stoneware bowl.
It is also a great idea to get your puppy used to wearing a collar and harness as soon as possible and have them put on by an expert who can recommend the type of collar and harness most suitable for the breed. Remember, you need to be able to get two fingers between the collar and your pup. And don’t forget that, like children, puppies grow fast and will need collars and harnesses produced with them, so fully adjustable ones are a great idea.
- Read more: Why Does My Dog Lay On My Stomach?
You’re beginning an extraordinary journey with your new puppy, who’ll love you forever and bring you more joy than you can imagine. So be sure to make the most of every magical moment!
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