When you bring home your new puppy, this is an exhilarating time for everyone. A puppy has boundless energy, affection and fun, and this little being will be sure to energize your family. There will be many things that you need to know and plan for as a new pup parent. If you want to make sure that you are ready and have everything that your puppy needs, here are a few must-know details that any new pet owner needs.
Food and Feeding Schedule
When you bring home your puppy, it is important to understand that they are still developing. They need fuel to grow and the nutrients necessary to promote good health. Discuss options with your vet and determine your puppy feeding schedule. Keep in mind that their needs will likely change throughout their life and you will need to adjust their food and schedule accordingly. Consistency, high-quality products and nutrient-rich options will all be important aspects of your pup’s diet.
Potty Training
Puppies, much like their human counterparts also require potty training. Early on, you will need to take your pup on frequent walks and potty breaks and pay close attention to avoid accidents. Most dogs can start potty training between twelve and sixteen weeks, and the process often takes four to six months to fully complete training. While accidents are common early on, and even frequent with puppies, consistent training can help your pup build up bladder control and a schedule. Just as you wouldn’t want to potty train your child too young, you won’t want to start them too early and before they are developmentally and physically ready.
Behavioral Training
Dogs’ instincts want them to follow a pack order, and behavioral training can help them understand that. Not only can this help you have a better-behaved dog, but you also can avoid dangerous and potentially risky encounters with others if your dog is well trained. It works to your advantage and theirs to invest in behavioral dog training melbourne, when they are a pup.
Socialization
Another essential part of pet ownership is proper socialization. Your pup needs to understand how to behave with others and what is expected of them. This is true for their interactions with strangers, other dogs, house guests and even family. If you want to have a healthy and happy experience with your pup, socialization is key.
Preventative Care and Proactive Planning
With your dog, preventative care and proactive planning will go a long way. This can include anything from preventative healthcare to puppy-proofing your home to proper identification. All of these steps can help your dog live a healthy life and ensure that they are protected in the case of emergencies. Just as you would want to be proactive with your and your family’s health and wellbeing, your canine companion will need the same care.
Supplies
As a new dog owner, you cannot forget to stock up on supplies before your puppy arrives. You will need everything from toys to a crate to food serving dishes to a leash and collar. While you will likely want to spoil them, you don’t need to buy everything in the store, you just need the essential puppy supplies.
Patience
One of the most important things that you will need for your new pup is patience. While owning a dog is a wonderful, heartwarming experience, it can also be frustrating and exhausting. You need to be patient during the hard times, remember the heartfelt moments and avoid common dog ownership mistakes. Not every moment with your puppy will be easy, but it will be well worth it in the long haul.
Giving your pup a good life requires a comprehensive plan, including everything from their feeding schedule to supplies to their training. If you want to thrive as a pet owner and give your pup the life they deserve, start with these areas. The love you will receive in return will be indescribable, and it will be inconceivable how you ever lived without them.
