Adding a puppy to your family can be exciting. Nonetheless, the whole process of acquiring a puppy and ensuring its health and comfort can be daunting, especially if you are a new parent. Look – you don’t just go to the pest shop, buy a puppy, and take it home. Since you want this little canine to have a lovely place to stay for life, you need to prepare in advance and make sure all essentials are in place.
In the section below, you will find a list of must-haves so that you can give your puppy an enjoyable homecoming. Read on!
A Safe Place To Sleep and Play
Before you bring a puppy home, look at your space, and determine whether or not you have safe places for the dog to play and sleep. Things like playpens and dog crates provide pups with a safe and secure place to play and rest.
Like other little animals, Puppies need a place where they can be confined until they learn some house manners. When it comes to dogs, it doesn’t matter whether you buy a German shepherd or a Boston Terrier. It takes some time for them to find their way around, and confining them in interesting places provides them with the perfect room to learn.
When it comes to buying dog crates and playpens, you don’t have to go large. As long as what you get is large enough for your pup to stand and turn around, you are good to go. Before you go shopping, make sure you do thorough research and buy the best products you can afford.
A Strong Collar and Leash
Buying a sturdy collar and leash should be an integral part of your puppy planning strategy. When shopping, make sure you select a color and leash that is appropriate for the age and breed of your puppy. Since your puppy will grow quickly, buying an adjustable collar is a prudent decision. Regularly examine the color for fit and condition. If you cannot slip two fingers underneath it, replace it as soon as possible.
A Good Trainer
Raising a safe, friendly dog is highly important. Before you bring your puppy home, make sure you identify a good class or trainer. Group obedience classes are important for young puppies. They give them an opportunity to get comfortable around other dogs and people. Remember, dog training is not properly regulated in most states; hence anyone can call themselves a dog trainer. You need to do your due diligence and find a qualified trainer you can trust.
A Qualified Vet
One of the most important people in your puppy’s life is a vet. Make sure you find a vet who will give the pup a pleasant first visit. If you don’t know a local vet, ask for around for referrals. Don’t forget that your puppy might need a thorough checkup and possible vaccinations in the first few days. Therefore, it is important to identify a vet even before the puppy gets home.
ID Tag
Once your puppy gets home, you will need to identify it. Make sure you are ready with an easy-to-read ID tag that contains the puppy’s name, your family name, and your contact details. One mistake that most do owners make is to think that they do not need an identification tag for their dogs simply because their animals are ‘indoor pets.’ In case your puppy escapes for some reason, an ID tag will aid a speedy reunion.
