Top Tips for Preparing for a Puppy

Bringing a new puppy home can bring a lot of joy. They’re really great to offer a mood-booster, while also being motivation to get out and exercise. However, it’s even better if you adopt a rescue puppy rather than purchasing one.

Ethically, by adopting rather than shopping, you help to reduce the demand for puppies which in turn, reduces unethical breeding practices. Additionally, there’s already a dog that needs help or rescue, and you’ll be providing a safe space. Of course, you’ll also be helping out the rescue shelter and contributing to a more compassionate pet community.

Preparation Essentials

No matter whether you’ve purchased or adopted your new puppy, their needs remain the same. And, if you’re planning on offering them a good home, you need to be prepared. With this in mind, there is a ton of different items you should consider purchasing before you welcome your new puppy home.

For instance, you’ll need a harness, lead, collar, bed, blankets and towels. You’re also going to need food and water bowls, chew toys (both squeaky and interactive options), pee pad, cleaning supplies and dog food. Depending on your house, you may need a crate or simply a baby gate to prevent your puppy from exploring areas that are unsafe, or that you simply don’t want them exploring.

In the past, arming yourself with such an array of items could be complex. But these days, many online retailers offer all these products in just one convenient location. Popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon, eBay, and DHgate are great for shopping for these essentials. To get even better deals, you can browse DHgate promo codes on Discoup, making it easier to save while preparing your home for your new furry friend.

Tips for Creating a Pet-Friendly Home

As you prepare, it’s a good idea to take a look at how you can best get your house ready for your puppy. This primarily means figuring out how to puppy-proof your home. Puppies like to get into everything which means you have to be sure that there is nothing toxic in the home. This can be anything from plants to cleaning products. Ensuring that all these toxic items cannot be accessed is the first step on the list.

Dogs are typically adept escape artists as well. This means you need to check and ensure that all the areas are safe and cannot be escaped from. Anything from a broken fence to an open door is an opportunity for a puppy. And, you have to make sure that any seemingly small cracks or openings in fences are sealed off. Puppies can get through smaller gaps than you might think.

It’s not all about safety though. Adopting or bringing in a puppy to a new environment comes with its own challenges. Typically, the first three days is the adjustment period for the dog. The dog is likely going to feel overwhelmed and possibly anxious in this new space. As such, exploration at the dog’s own pace is a must, so make sure there is a designated secure space allowing the puppy to feel safe.

After three weeks, the puppy will be far more settled in. With a routine in place, the dog can now begin some basic training. This will help the puppy to relax and start fitting in, enjoying his home. During this time, meeting your vet and establishing this area of the puppy’s life is also a good step.

Finally, after three months, everything should be progressing well. Now the puppy will be completely used to the house and environment, with the personality coming out in full. Keep up consistent training to reinforce positive behaviors. Never ignore any signs of stress though.

Bringing a puppy into your home is a lot of fun, but can be stressful. Being prepared will not only benefit your peace of mind, but also your puppy’s. Make sure that the transition to your home is a smooth one for all, by being prepared.