New Puppy Care Steps: 3 Must-Dos for Happy, Healthy Pups
Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time filled with joy and anticipation. However, as any responsible pet owner knows, caring for a furry addition to the family involves much more than just cuddles and playtime. It requires attention to their physical and emotional needs to ensure that they grow into happy and healthy dogs. If you find yourself embarking on this adventure, it’s crucial to be aware of the essential steps you must take to provide the best care for your new puppy. In this article, we will explore three must-dos that will set the foundation for a lifetime of happiness for your furry friend and help you navigate the early stages of puppyhood with confidence.
The first crucial step in caring for a new puppy is creating a safe and comfortable environment for them to grow in. Puppies are curious and explore everything within their reach, making it essential to puppy-proof your living space. Remove any toxic plants, chemicals, or small objects that could be swallowed, and secure loose wires or cords that might pose a danger. Providing a designated space for your pup will also help in their adjustment process. Set up a crate or a soft bed in a quiet corner of your home, offering them a safe retreat where they can relax and have uninterrupted sleep. By establishing a secure environment, you will ensure your puppy’s well-being and minimize any potential risks.
The second must-do for new puppy care is establishing a routine and sticking to it. Puppies thrive on consistency, so it’s important to establish a regular schedule for feeding, exercise, and potty breaks. Mealtime should occur at the same times each day, offering them appropriate portion sizes of high-quality puppy food. Establishing a consistent exercise routine is equally important for their physical and mental well-being
Preparing your home for a new puppy
Establishing a routine for your new pup
Ensuring proper nutrition and feeding schedule
Socializing your puppy with other pets and people
Basic puppy training techniques for a well-behaved furry friend
Preparing your home for a new puppy
Preparing your home for a new puppy
Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and joyful experience. However, it also requires careful preparation to ensure that your furry friend has a safe and comfortable environment to thrive in. Preparing your home for a new puppy involves several essential steps that will help you create a welcoming space and avoid potential hazards. Here are three must-dos to ensure your home is ready for your new furry family member.
1. Puppy-proofing your space
Similar to baby-proofing a house, puppy-proofing is an essential step in preparing your home for a new puppy. Puppies are curious by nature and often explore their surroundings with their mouths, which means they are prone to chewing on objects that are within reach. Start by getting down to your puppy’s level to identify potential hazards. Look for electrical cords, toxic plants, or small objects that could be hazardous if ingested.
Secure electrical cords by keeping them out of reach or using cord protectors to prevent chewing. Remove any toxic plants from your puppy’s reach, as certain plants can be harmful if ingested. Additionally, make sure to store any small objects, such as coins or buttons, in a safe place where your puppy cannot access them.
Furthermore, take the time to close off any rooms or areas of your home that you do not want your puppy to have access to until they are properly trained. This will help you create boundaries and prevent accidents or damage to your home.
2. Creating a cozy retreat
Just like humans, puppies need a cozy and comfortable space to rest and relax. Creating a designated area for your new puppy will give them a sense of security and help with their transition into their new home.
Set up a crate or a puppy playpen in a quiet area of your home where your puppy can retreat whenever they need some downtime. Line the crate or playpen with soft bedding to make it more comfortable. Introduce your puppy to this area gradually, allowing them to explore and get used to their new space at their own pace.
Remember to provide plenty of toys and chew bones to keep your puppy entertained and prevent them from chewing on furniture or other belongings. Interactive toys, such as puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys, can also help keep your puppy mentally stimulated.
3. Establishing a routine
Dogs thrive on routine, and establishing a consistent schedule from day one will help your new puppy adjust to their new home. Set a regular feeding schedule and provide access to fresh water at all times. Puppies generally need to eat more frequently than adult dogs, so dividing their daily food into several meals throughout the day is recommended.
Establishing a consistent potty routine is also crucial for successful house training. Take your puppy outside to their designated potty area after meals, play sessions, and upon waking up in the morning or after naps. Positive reinforcement, such as praise or treats, can be used to reward your puppy for using the correct spot.
In addition to potty training, make sure to incorporate regular exercise and playtime into your puppy’s daily routine. Regular exercise is essential for their physical and mental well-being.
By following these three must-dos, you will be well-prepared to welcome a new puppy into your home. Remember that patience, consistency, and lots of love are key to ensuring a happy and healthy life for your new furry family member.
Establishing a routine for your new pup
Establishing a Routine for Your New Pup
Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time, filled with joy and anticipation. However, it is crucial to establish a routine for your new furry friend early on to ensure they grow into happy and well-behaved adult dogs. Establishing a routine provides a sense of structure and security for your pup, promotes good behavior, and helps prevent common issues such as separation anxiety and house soiling. In this section, we will discuss three essential steps to help you establish a routine for your new pup.
1. Consistent Feeding Schedule:
One of the first routines you should establish for your new pup is a consistent feeding schedule. Puppies have small stomachs and need to eat on a regular schedule to maintain their energy levels and health. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food your pup needs and divide it into several small meals throughout the day. Most puppies require three to four meals until they are about six months old, at which point you can gradually transition them to two meals a day.
Designate a specific area for feeding your pup, preferably in a calm and quiet spot in your home. Serve their meals at the same time each day, making sure to provide fresh water as well. By adhering to a consistent feeding routine, your puppy will quickly learn when to expect food, making potty training easier and reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
2. Regular Exercise and Playtime:
Puppies have boundless energy and need plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. Setting a routine for exercise and playtime is vital to providing an outlet for their energy and ensuring their overall well-being. Make it a point to engage in playtime with your pup at least three times a day, incorporating activities such as fetch, tug-of-war, or puzzle toys.
Additionally, daily walks are an excellent way to promote exercise and socialization for your puppy. Start with short walks and gradually increase the duration as they grow older. Remember, exercise should be tailored to your pup’s breed, age, and overall health. Regular exercise not only helps keep your puppy physically fit but also prevents behavioral issues resulting from pent-up energy, such as destructive chewing or excessive barking.
3. Establish a consistent sleep schedule.
Just like humans, puppies require an adequate amount of sleep for their growth and development. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is crucial to ensuring your pup gets the rest they need. Puppies generally need 18–20 hours of sleep per day, but this can vary depending on their breed and age.
Create a designated space for your puppy to sleep, whether it’s a crate or a cozy bed. Make sure the area is comfortable, quiet, and free from any distractions. Set a consistent bedtime routine, such as a final walk and some quiet playtime, before settling your pup down for the night. By establishing a regular sleep schedule, you not only provide your pup with the rest they need but also prevent behavioral issues resulting from sleep deprivation, such as excessive whining or aggression.
Conclusion:
Establishing a routine for your new pup is an essential aspect of their overall well-being and development. By creating a consistent feeding schedule, providing regular exercise and playtime, and establishing a consistent sleep schedule, you set the foundation for a happy and healthy pup. Remember, puppies thrive on routine and structure, and with patience and consistency, your new furry friend will grow into a well-adjusted and obedient adult dog.
Ensuring proper nutrition and feeding schedule
Ensuring proper nutrition and establishing a feeding schedule are essential for the overall health and well-being of your new puppy. Puppies have different dietary needs than adult dogs, as they are still growing and developing. By providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet, you are laying the foundation for a long and healthy life. In this section, we will discuss the importance of proper nutrition and how to establish a feeding schedule for your furry friend.
First and foremost, it is crucial to choose a high-quality puppy food that meets the nutritional requirements of your specific breed. Look for a food that is specifically formulated for puppies, as it will contain the right balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that they need to thrive. Avoid generic or low-quality brands, as they may not provide adequate nutrition and could potentially harm your puppy’s health.
When transitioning your puppy to a new diet, it is essential to do so gradually. Sudden changes in food can cause digestive upset and lead to diarrhea or an upset stomach. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food and gradually increasing the ratio of the new food over a week or two. This allows their digestive system to adjust and ensures a smooth transition to the new diet.
Calculating the appropriate portion size for your puppy is important to prevent both underfeeding and overfeeding. Follow the guidelines provided on the food packaging, but keep in mind that these are just general recommendations. Each puppy is unique, with different activity levels, metabolisms, and growth rates. Regularly monitor your puppy’s weight and adjust their portion sizes accordingly. It is crucial to maintain a healthy body condition score, which means that you should be able to feel your ribs with slight pressure but not see them protruding.
Puppies have relatively small stomachs, and they need to eat more frequently than adult dogs. Generally, you should aim to feed your puppy three to four times a day until they are about six months old. This ensures that they receive a steady supply of nutrients throughout the day and helps to prevent blood sugar drops, which can cause lethargy, weakness, and even seizures. As your puppy grows older, you can gradually decrease the number of meals to twice a day.
Establishing a feeding schedule is important as it provides predictability and structure for your puppy. Choose specific times for each meal and stick to them as much as possible. This helps to regulate their metabolism and teaches them when to expect food. It is also essential to create a calm and quiet environment during mealtimes. Minimize distractions, such as loud noises or the presence of other pets, that may cause anxiety or competition for food.
In addition to their regular meals, it is vital to provide your puppy with access to fresh water at all times. Puppies have a higher water requirement than adult dogs, as they are more active and have faster metabolisms. Ensure that the water bowl is clean and refilled regularly to encourage proper hydration.
In conclusion, ensuring proper nutrition and establishing a feeding schedule are crucial steps in caring for your new puppy. Choose a high-quality puppy food that meets their nutritional needs, and transition them to a new diet gradually. Monitor their portion sizes and adjust accordingly to maintain a healthy body condition. Feed your puppy multiple times a day and establish a consistent feeding schedule for predictability. Remember to provide fresh water at all times. By following these steps, you are setting your puppy up for a happy and healthy life.
Socializing your puppy with other pets and people
Socializing your puppy with other pets and people is a crucial aspect of their development. By exposing them to different environments, animals, and humans, you are shaping their social skills and ensuring they grow up to be well-rounded and confident dogs. Proper socialization can prevent behavioral problems, anxiety, and fear of aggression later in life. In this section, we will discuss the importance of socializing your puppy and provide three key steps to help you achieve a happy and socially adept pup.
1. Start early and take it slow
It is important to start socializing your puppy as early as possible. The critical socialization period for puppies is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. During this time, they are more open and receptive to new experiences. However, be mindful that this period is also when they are most vulnerable to disease, so take precautions and avoid exposing them to unvaccinated pets or unfamiliar environments with potentially infectious agents.
When introducing your puppy to new pets or people, take it slow. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of their interactions as your puppy becomes more comfortable. Start with short and supervised meet-and-greets in a controlled environment. Always ensure that both the other pet and the person are calm and gentle, setting a positive tone for the interaction.
2. Positive reinforcement and rewards
Use positive reinforcement techniques to create positive associations with new experiences. Offer praise, treat, and reward your puppy whenever they display desired behaviors during social interactions. This helps reinforce the idea that meeting new people or animals is a pleasant and rewarding experience.
Similarly, expose your puppy to different environments, such as parks, bustling streets, or pet-friendly stores. Use treats and playtime as incentives to help your puppy feel more at ease in new surroundings. Gradually increase the level of distractions in their environments to ensure they remain focused and comfortable. The goal is to build their confidence and teach them that the world is a safe and enjoyable place.
3. Exposure and controlled interactions
It is important to expose your puppy to a variety of people and animals early on. Ideally, this should include friendly dogs, cats, and other animals, as well as different types of people—children, adults, men, and women. Expose them to diverse environments like busy streets, parks, vet clinics, or grooming salons. This exposure will help them become familiar with and comfortable with different situations, reducing the likelihood of fearful or aggressive behaviors later on.
Ensure each interaction is calm, controlled, and positive. If your puppy shows signs of fear or unease, do not force them to continue the interaction. Instead, remove them from the situation and try again at a later time. It is crucial not to overwhelm your puppy, as it may have long-lasting negative effects on their social development.
Remember, socialization is an ongoing process. It is important to continue socializing your puppy even after the critical period ends. This will help them maintain their social skills and adaptability as they grow into adult dogs. Regular exposure to new experiences and ongoing positive reinforcement will support their development into happy and well-adjusted companions.
In summary, socializing your puppy with other pets and people is essential for their overall well-being. Starting early, taking it slow, using positive reinforcement, controlled interactions, and constant exposure to new experiences are key steps to ensure your puppy grows up to be a friendly and well-socialized adult dog. By committing to socialization, you are laying the foundation for a lifetime of happy interactions and companionship.
Basic puppy training techniques for a well-behaved furry friend
Basic puppy training techniques for a well-behaved furry friend
Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting and joyous experience. They are cute, cuddly, and full of energy. However, along with all the fun, it is essential to provide your new furry friend with proper training. Basic puppy training techniques not only help with establishing good behavior but also make them feel secure and happy. In this section, we will discuss some fundamental techniques that will help shape your puppy into a well-behaved companion.
1. Start with crate training:
Crate training is one of the most effective methods for housebreaking your puppy and creating a safe space for them. Dogs are naturally den animals, and a crate simulates a den-like environment that appeals to their instincts. When selecting a crate, make sure it is large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Here are some steps to follow for successful crate training:
Introduce the crate gradually. Start by placing the crate in a quiet area of your house with the door open. Allow your puppy to explore it at their own pace without any pressure.
Encourage positive associations: Make the crate a pleasant place by placing soft bedding, toys, and treats inside. You can even feed your puppy their meals near the crate to create positive associations.
Gradually increase crate time: Once your puppy is comfortable in the crate, start closing the door for short periods. Initially, stay nearby and gradually increase the duration. Always reward your puppy with praise and treats for good behavior.
Create a routine: Establish a consistent schedule for crate time, including naps and nighttime rest. A routine will help your puppy understand when it’s time to relax and reduce anxiety.
2. Establish a consistent house-training routine.
Housebreaking your puppy is an essential part of their training. It requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here are some steps to help you establish a successful house-training routine:
Set up a designated elimination area. Choose a specific spot in your yard where you want your puppy to relieve themselves. Take them to this area every time they need to go and use a specific command, such as “go potty,” to associate the action with the command.
Observe your puppy’s behavior: Watch for signs that your puppy needs to eliminate, such as sniffing the ground, circling, or suddenly becoming restless. Take them to the designated area immediately to prevent accidents.
Reward good behavior: When your puppy successfully eliminates in the designated area, praise them enthusiastically and offer a small treat as a reward. Positive reinforcement will reinforce the desired behavior.
Be consistent and patient. Accidents will happen, especially in the early stages of training. Never punish your puppy for accidents, as it may create fear and confusion. Instead, clean up the mess calmly and continue with the training process.
3. Socialize your puppy from an early age:
Socialization plays a vital role in shaping your puppy’s behavior and ensuring they grow up to be confident and well-adjusted dogs. Early socialization helps prevent fear or aggression towards people and other animals. Here are some tips for successful socialization:
Introduce your puppy to various environments, people, and animals. Gradually expose your puppy to different environments, such as parks, busy streets, and public places. Allow them to interact with people of all ages and other well-behaved animals.
Encourage positive experiences. Provide positive reinforcement and rewards whenever you’re In conclusion, welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyous time. However, it is important to remember that proper care and attention are necessary to ensure their happiness and well-being. By following these three must-dos for happy, healthy pups, you can create a safe environment, establish a routine, and provide the necessary healthcare to set your puppy up for a fulfilling life. Remember to prioritize socialization, training, and proper nutrition, as these elements are crucial for their development. With patience, love, and consistency, you can build a strong bond with your new furry friend and enjoy many years of companionship together.
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Excellent advice..couldn’t agree more!
My dog already doesn't potty in the house he does it outside
what breed s that dog
P**** & S**** has me beat.
As a future veterinarian! I approve this message! 💯
What do you use in your reward pouch?
Keeping your dog on a leash at the dog park is fine
Level up your dog's training with a free online workshop that rivals service dog standards. See results in just a week! Access it anytime. Share with fellow fur baby parents and create a community of well-trained and happy dogs.
Don't bring your dogs to the vet to get vaccines, just because your landlord requires it. Don't be a scumbag dog owner. Get them for their health.
Yeah it’s so dumb t take your puppy out to dog parks. I say wait at least they’re over 1 year old so their immune system is good enough to not get so sick especiallyPARVO.
A puppy can get PARVO even after their vaccines. I say wait a year until then…
Easiest pups to toilet train???
Any advice for potty training? I take mine out constantly and keep him in the crate but he still will poop in the house. He's a month old Shiba
I would never take a dog to a dog park no matter the age
Years ago I made the mistake and took my beagle to the dog park. She picked up a case of the dog flu. She was sick for days. Never ever again.
Why can’t you bring your dog to a dog park?
my dog doesnt like people because we got him during lock down do you have any tips?
Do you crate your dog when you sleep? Why not just train the dog to not chew stuff they are not supposed to?
When my dog had puppies instead of just selling them we pad trained and doggy door trained them when they were old enough so the buyers wouldn’t have to 😊
Thank you, I have a puppy
Thank you
car training is also important
Why not bring them to a dog park ????
I’m getting a new puppy for Christmas but the thing is I race go karts, and my dad wants to take the puppy with us to the race tracks will that hurt their ears?
Puppy biting. Need a vid. 😊
What kind of dog? Boerbel?
Super important for sure I’ve always thought that a dog that is food aggressive is a dog that is just plain no good.
Thanks for mentioning the dog park. I've heard they are crawling with possible disease and dogs gone wild.
My friend puppy died today he got bit badly by to dogs 💔🤦♂️
never put my dog in a crate
I love your videos, my friend you are off the chain. Please keep up the great work I watch them every day off the hook good information. 🔥🔥🔥💯4️⃣1️⃣1️⃣‼️
I feel bad the dog has to get used to gunshots, bombs, screams, alarms pretty wild
What a gorgeous pup
Dog parks is a good way for a puppy to get parvo, rip the puppy you love within the next day or two
Potty training prior to 4 months of age will most likely be hit and miss. At 4 months old, a dog is equivalent to a 3-year old human child. My children were very amenable to toilet training at 3 years, but two was too young – in my humble opinion.
After six weeks of vigilant watching and taking my G.S. outside, he would still sneak somewhere and relieve himself.
At four months old, it was like a program just kicked in overnight and he was magically wanting to go outside, not inside. Other than a few more accidents, he was reliable inside very rapidly after he turned four months old.
I'd start with not rewarding a puppy with food/treats for being on a table. Then potty training.
Doggy day cares and dog parks are almost never a good choice
DONT LISTEN TO THIS MAN ON THIS. I have a lot of respect for him as a trainer but he is steering you wrong here. I did this, my German shepherd had just had his 3rd vaccination. We took him everywhere. But because we were careless and brought him everywhere with us, he got parvo. He lived 5 days after that. We did everything there was to do. It just wasn’t enough. Parvo is everywhere out there yall. It’s in the parking lot at the convenience store. It’s at petco. It’s at your local vet office. Avoid going anywhere, and avoid exposing them to any dog before they’re at least 6 months old and fully vaccinated. And PLEASE never let them have access to your shoes. It transmits orally, and even adult dogs might carry it. If you step in it, and your puppy chews your shoes, it’s over. It’s a very serious virus that will live on surfaces in the environment for years.
I 1000% agree on the no dog park thing. I've never and will never take any of my boys to one.
Day 16 of asking you to do a video on the Ridgeback breed I love the breed and would like to hear your (professional) opinion on them
If you've already made one I haven't seen it sorry
Your dog will only do that sh*t once and thank God my dog's smart! Love your videos!
I walk my dog on a very busy street literally so they they don't react with loud noise…they have learned to pay attention to unfamiliar sounds.
Sorry but crate training is just not essential. Depends on a few things
Shes so cute.
Wait until you are fully vaccinated at 16-18 weeks to socialize your puppies. The same way it doesn’t matter how cute they are if they poop everywhere, it doesn’t matter how cute they were if they get Parvo and Distemper and die a horrible death simply because you were impatient.
Getting a puppy soon and I have so much to learn. When can I take him around other dogs?
What kind of dog is that I have the same one and don’t know the breed
side note cause i just checked your website. who is paying $20,000 for training? cause that’s crazy. i can’t send my dogs to you cause i can’t afford it but my dogs are out of control
Amen!!
Agreed
Never crate trained any of my dogs. I took there asses outside they hated that more after they got used being inside.
I do not even know how I ended up here but I thought this post was great I dont know who you are but definitely youre going to a famous blogger if you arent already Cheers
It’s called quality. Hello, thank you. Thank you for stopping by and for your motivating comment. I thank you very much.