Adopting a pet is no less than having a child because of all the work and attention you will be putting in. Most first-time parents of a puppy are nervous but fear not, you are here for a reason.
Take it from someone who has been through this stage; it gets better! So, let’s dig in all the details you must know when you bring a new family member home!
Essential Supplies for Your New Puppy
Before your puppy comes home, make sure you have all the essential supplies ready to go. This includes:
- A comfy bed
- Food
- Water bowls
- A leash and collar
- Toys
- Plenty of puppy pads or newspapers for potty training
Don’t forget to puppy-proof your home by getting rid of anything dangerous or chewable.
Be Extra Attentive For The First 24 Hours
The first twenty-four hours are very crucial because they will decide how the puppy will be behaving with you for the first few weeks. Do not show any form of aggression no matter how tired you are and give them a safe space to just be themselves. Trust us, they will come crawling back to you once they know you can be trusted.
Creating a Comfortable and Safe Space
When you first bring your puppy home, it’s important to create a cozy and safe space for them to settle in. Pick a quiet spot in your home and set up a comfy bed or crate with some soft blankets. Make sure your puppy can easily get to fresh water and a designated potty area.
Keep Your Puppy Active and Happy
Exercise is important for keeping your puppy healthy and happy, but it’s important to choose activities that are safe and right for their age and size. Short walks, play sessions in a fenced yard, and puppy play dates are all great options. Additionally, grooming and basic care tasks, like trimming the nails of your puppy, should be done regularly to ensure they stay comfortable and can play safely. Avoid anything too intense or rough that could hurt your growing pup.
Nutrition and Feeding Guidelines
Puppies have special nutritional needs to help them grow and develop. Choose a high-quality puppy food that’s right for your pup’s breed and size. Follow the feeding guidelines on the package and stick to a regular feeding schedule. And don’t forget to always have plenty of fresh water available.
Protecting Your Puppy’s Health Is Imminent
One of the most important things you can do for your puppy’s health is to make sure they get all their vaccinations. Work with your vet to set up a vaccination schedule that will protect your puppy from serious illnesses like parvovirus, distemper, and rabies. Keep track of your pup’s vaccination records and stick to the recommended schedule.
Regular Check-Ups and Preventative Care
Along with vaccinations, regular check-ups with your vet are super important for keeping an eye on your puppy’s overall health and development. Your vet can give you advice on things like flea and tick control, dental care, and spaying or neutering.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and bring up any concerns you have about your puppy’s health.
Train Them Well And Improve Their Socialization
You must train them how to meet and behave in front of others. Improving their socialization skills can help you in many ways. For starters, you can leave them to a trusted partner if there’s an urgent task that needs your attention. They also get to thrive when they are socializing.
Basic Training Commands Every Puppy Should Know
Training your puppy is a big part of being a responsible dog owner. Start with basic commands and use lots of treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Be patient and consistent with your training, and remember that every puppy learns at their own pace.
- Some of the basic commands to get started are:
- Sitting
- Running
- Going to their potty area
- Sleeping on their bed
Choosing the Right Food for Your Puppy’s Breed and Age
Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and those needs can vary based on breed and size. Choose a high-quality puppy food that’s right for your pup’s age and breed. Look for foods that are packed with protein, calcium, and other important nutrients to support healthy growth and development.
Understanding Feeding Schedules and Portions
Puppies need to eat more often than adult dogs, usually three to four times a day. Follow the feeding guidelines on your puppy’s food packaging and adjust portions as needed to keep them at a healthy weight. Don’t forget to count any treats or snacks in your pup’s daily calorie intake.
The Role of Playing in Your Puppy’s Development
Playing isn’t just fun for puppies – it’s a super important part of their cognitive and social development. Through playing, puppies learn important skills like bite inhibition, problem-solving, and social cues. Make sure your puppy has plenty of safe and appropriate toys to play with, and set aside time each day for interactive play sessions.
Puppy Care Through 6 Weeks to 12 Months
As your puppy grows and develops, their care needs will change. Keep in mind the following things:
- From 6 to 8 weeks, your puppy will need frequent feedings and plenty of rest
- From 8 to 16 weeks, socialization and training are top priorities
- From 4 to 6 months, your puppy will start losing their baby teeth (keep those chew toys coming)
- By 6 to 12 months, your puppy will be entering adolescence and may test boundaries
For more detailed guidance on caring for your puppy during this crucial stage, refer to our guide on 6 weeks to 12 months Puppy care
Preparing for the Adolescent Phase
The teenage phase can be a challenging time for puppy owners, as their once-cuddly pup starts to assert their independence. Keep up with training and socialization, and be patient as your puppy navigates this new stage of development. With consistency and positive reinforcement, you can help your puppy grow into a well-behaved and loving adult dog.
You Are All Set To Be The First Time Parent Of A Pup
Bringing a new puppy into your life is a big responsibility, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience. By giving your puppy the right care, training, and love, you can help them grow into a happy, healthy, and well-behaved adult dog. Remember to be patient, consistent, and always keep your puppy’s best interests in mind. With a little bit of effort and a lot of love, you and your puppy will be on your way to a lifetime of joy and companionship.
FAQs
How often should I take my puppy to the vet?
It’s important to take your puppy to the vet regularly during their first year of life. Most vets recommend check-ups every 3-4 weeks until your puppy is about 16 weeks old, then every 6-12 months after that.
When can I start taking my puppy on walks?
You can start taking your puppy on short walks as soon as they’ve had their first set of vaccinations, usually around 8 weeks old. Keep walks short at first, just 5-10 minutes at a time, and gradually increase the duration as your puppy grows and builds stamina.
How do I know if I’m feeding my puppy enough?
Puppies have different nutritional needs based on their breed, size, and age. As a general rule, follow the feeding guidelines on your puppy’s food packaging and adjust portions as needed to maintain a healthy weight.
What should I do if my puppy has an accident in the house?
Don’t get too frustrated if your puppy has a few mishaps. Stick to a regular potty break schedule and reward your puppy with treats and praise when they go in the right spot.
How much exercise does a puppy need each day?
The amount of exercise your puppy needs will vary based on their age, breed, and individual energy level. As a general rule, aim for 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day.
