How to help a puppy in a new home

by Michael Gaste
The day your puppy steps foot in your home for the first time is the beginning of a long and close friendship. You’ll have lots of funny, warm, and touching moments ahead. This article will help you get through them right and keep you from making common mistakes. We’ve put together tips on how to get your puppy to adjust to it’s new family faster.
Help a puppy in a new home- What to do before you get a puppy
Prepare your home for your new inhabitant
Your new puppy’s curiosity knows no boundaries. He needs to explore every corner of your home as well as everything in between. To avoid accidents, take precautions before your puppy arrives.
Remove wires from the floor. Tuck them under the baseboard, or put them in a box or mount them high enough so he can’t reach them. Move your houseplants up as well. Some, like Spathiphyllum, Schefflera, and Aloe, are toxic to dogs. If a puppy tries a leaf (and he probably will) it can cause mucous burns or intestinal distress.
To puppy proof your home, make sure everyone in the home is on the same page. Keep anything small enough to fit in the dog’s mouth out of reach. All potentially dangerous items, whether they’re leftover shoes, medicine, or household chemicals, are now kept in locked cupboards. Use childproof locks in case of the puppy figures out there’s something interesting hiding from him in the closet or cupboards. Puppies love to chew on soft things like clothes, towels, blankets, pillows and the like. As they grow in their first year or two they start chewing on larger things like furniture, baseboards, and all sorts of things.
Help a puppy in a new home- Buy everything your puppy needs
Here’s a minimal set of things you’ll need in the first few weeks:
- Food and water bowls. Ideal are metal bowls with a non-slip base or suction cups. Plastic bowls are easy to knock over, while ceramic ones can break.
- Cot. Your puppy needs a cozy place to sleep, preferably not on a passageway and away from batteries and drafts. The size of the bed should allow your dog to not only curl up but stretch out his legs.
- Puppy pads. You can walk your pet only after vaccination and quarantine. Until then he will have to take care of all the important things at home. Use puppy pads until the dog is housebroken.
- Dog grooming supplies. Your puppy needs a special shampoo designed for pets. It won’t irritate or dry the skin. You may also need a coat brush to suit your breed.
- Treats and toys. Provide the right toys and treats for your pup to chew on instead of being destructive.
- Dog crate. Use it right away if you’re taking your puppy home from the shelter or kennel. Another great idea if you need to take your puppy to the vet.
- Collar and leash. Even if your puppy hasn’t yet been vaccinated, these walking accessories should be purchased in advance. So when he’s out of quarantine from his vaccinations you’ll be ready to go.
Learn the dog’s background
When you choose a puppy try to learn as much as possible about the dog’s background. What was the dog’s daily routine? The puppy is used to being fed and walked (if all vaccinations have already been made) at a certain time. By continuing a routine the dog is already used to, he will adjust to his new home with much less effort.
Ask a breeder such as Bernedoodle Breeder in California and see how well they know the dog.
Find a veterinary clinic
Get the phone number of a 24-hour veterinary clinic near you, just for your own peace of mind. It’s a good idea to have a regular vet who can keep track of your puppy’s progress.
At the first checkup, ask the vet about the peculiarities of your chosen breed. For example, cocker spaniels are prone to ear problems. Dogs with flattened muzzles have trouble breathing, so they shouldn’t be walked in the heat. Don’t forget to prepare for emergencies with a first aid kit to treat wounds.
Help a puppy in a new home Learn how to raise a puppy
Help a puppy in a new home. Don’t expect him to know where the loo and the food are and to follow your commands the first time. He’ll work it out as he goes along. It’s up to you to help him adjust to his new home and make sure he’s well cared for. Read about the peculiarities of the breed and choose a suitable name. Learn basic training requirements.