Tips for First Time Puppy Owners

Got that puppy you were dreaming of? Getting yourself a puppy is a big decision, and it is only important that you become a responsible owner. Pet parenting isn’t easy, and you need to make sure that you give time, money, and effort into taking care of your puppy.

If you are a first-time puppy owner, you might be overwhelmed with happiness and anxiety at the same time. Are you doing the right thing? Can you take care of it properly? Will it grow up to be a happy dog? Don’t be afraid, below are some tips for you as a first-time pet parent.

1. PREPARE YOUR HOUSE

Aside from making sure that your home is comfortable for your new puppy, it should also be puppy-proof as well. To do this, go around your home and check if there are possible threats or dangers for your pup. For example, are there any house cleaners lying around? If you see anything, then make sure that you put them out of its reach. Other possible hazards are exposed wires, small toys, or objects that can choke your puppy, exposed cords that can be pulled, and objects that can easily fall. Basically, just make sure that your puppy won’t be able to get its paws or mouth on anything that can harm it or anything it can destroy anything.

2. BUY PUPPY PRODUCTS AND EQUIPMENT

Another important thing to take note of is that you need to make sure that you are prepared with the necessary puppy products and equipment. Make sure that you invest in good-quality ones because these are the ones that last, giving you the best value for your money. Below are some of the supplies you may need:

• A high-quality puppy food
• Food and water bowls
• A puppy collar with ID tags that have your puppy’s name, along with your details and phone number
• It would also be good to invest in a dog crate. A crate will become your puppy’s home, and it will be incredibly useful during travel, or even during your trips to the veterinarian
• Brushes, grooming kits, nail clippers, shampoo, and other toiletries for your puppy
• Safe chew puppy toys for teething
• Protection against ticks and parasites
• Dog treats
• Blankets and a dog bed

3. VISIT A VETERINARIAN

It is also important to get a veterinarian for your puppy. It will need vaccinations, so make sure that you are also prepared for that as well.  Regular visits to the veterinarian can help you during emergencies, and veterinarians can also give you advice as well. You can ask your friends if they have any recommendations.

4. WATCH YOUR PUPPY’S WEIGHT

Data shows that most dogs are actually overweight, so make sure that you also consult your veterinarian about this as well. He or she can help you and guide you in making sure that your puppy is getting the right nutrients, and eating the right dog food (and amount of food) for its breed and size.

5. PUPPY TRAINING

You can purchase some books that have information on how to train your puppy so that they have the opportunity to perfect their skills with you. However, you can also enroll your dog in obedience school or find a personal trainer, depending on how confident you feel about training him or her yourself.

Now that you know generally what you need to get started in caring for your new puppy, go enjoy some time with them!