Caring for the New Family Dog
As the owner of a new puppy, you can expect your lovable little companion to:
- Chew on the leather handle of your guitar case, the plastic lever on your home office chair, and the wooden leg of your walnut veneer coffee table.
- Whimper at the side of your bed at 6:15 in the morning on your sleep-in Saturday.
- Add a total of $1,397 to your credit card debt during their rookie year as the family dog.
- Have a few solid and liquid accidents on the Moroccan wool rug in your living room.
All of the above.
It’s a lot to take in, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges. While there may be some ups and downs, getting started on the right foot as your pup’s new best friend will make the experience unforgettable. Prepare to be a responsible dog owner, and your new puppy will bring endless joy and love into your life!
Prepare for Bringing the Puppy Home
Of course, you’re excited and eager to start life with your new pet. But it's important to remember that this is a big transition for your puppy. He’s just been taken from his mother, siblings, and the familiar environment where he felt safe. Therefore, it’s up to you to make the transition as smooth as possible for both of you.
Puppy-proof
Like toddlers, puppies can get themselves into trouble quickly. You’ll want to protect both your home and your puppy from potential hazards. Use a handy puppy-proofing checklist to ensure everything is ready before your puppy arrives.
Gather Supplies
- Crate: A crate provides a secure resting space for your puppy and acts as a safe place when you need to leave him alone briefly. It also helps with housebreaking, as dogs tend not to soil their crates. Ensure the crate is large enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Baby Gates: If you plan to restrict your puppy’s access to certain parts of the house, buy or borrow baby gates. Tension-mounted gates are a good option for temporary use.
- Collar and Leash: Your puppy will need a collar and leash for walks and outdoor adventures. These are also essential for training your puppy to follow basic commands.
- Food and Water Bowls, and Food: A typical puppy needs to be fed two to three times a day. Consult your breeder or veterinarian for advice on the best food for your puppy, especially if he has special dietary needs.
- Dog Bed: Whether your puppy is in a crate or roaming around, he will need a dog bed for naps and rest. Choose a bed that is comfortable and suitable for his breed and size.
- Grooming Supplies: Depending on whether you have a long- or short-haired breed, purchase the appropriate brushes, combs, dog shampoo, cotton balls for ear cleaning, nail clippers, and toothpaste and toothbrush for your puppy.
- Cleaning Supplies: Puppies are bound to have accidents, so stock up on paper towels, cleaning cloths, and cleaning products designed for dog messes.
- Toys: Your new puppy will need an outlet for his energy. Toys are great for play and stimulation. Consider hard rubber toys, rope toys, and flavored bones for unsupervised play. Soft toys and tennis balls are fine, but be sure to supervise your puppy to avoid accidental swallowing of pieces.
Decide on House Rules
Puppies are eager learners, but they need consistent guidance. If the rules change daily—such as whether they’re allowed on the furniture or whether their nipping is acceptable—it can be confusing for them. Consistency is key. The whole family should sit down together and agree on the house rules for your new puppy to ensure everyone is on the same page.
By preparing well and gathering the right supplies, you’ll make the transition smoother for your new puppy and set the foundation for a happy life together.
Introduce the Puppy to His New Home and Family
As excited as you are, you can make the transition smoother for your puppy by taking things slowly. Introduce family members one at a time, if possible, and give your new pet time to explore his surroundings. Show him his designated sleeping spot, outdoor potty area, crate, and food and water bowls. Most importantly, introduce him to his toys. During these first few days and weeks, make sure to supervise your puppy at all times, or at least keep him within view.
Now is also the time to assign responsibilities for your puppy’s care: who will take him on the last potty walk, who will feed him, who will clean up accidents, and so on. Consider creating a schedule for feeding, potty breaks, and walks, which will help remind everyone of their duties.
It’s never too early to start reinforcing good behavior with treats and rewards, and gently correcting undesirable behavior. But remember, puppies chew, potty indoors, cry, and can sometimes find themselves in harm’s way. With attention, supervision, and plenty of time spent together, you’ll be building a strong, lifelong bond.
Be Vigilant About Your Puppy’s Health
Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian to ensure your puppy stays healthy. Follow the vaccination schedule, as puppies receive some antibodies from their mothers, but vaccinations and follow-up boosters are essential for protecting him from serious diseases.
Your vet will likely recommend preventive measures for common issues like Lyme disease and heartworm, such as topical flea and tick repellents and chewable heartworm preventatives. Set reminders on your calendar for when to apply these treatments.
Learn about the specific health risks associated with your puppy’s breed. Your vet will help you recognize potential issues early on and offer guidance on how to prevent them.
Here’s a quick daily checklist to help maintain your puppy’s health:
- Check his skin and coat by running your hands over his body to feel for ticks, fleas, or any unusual bumps or lumps.
- Look for excessive scratching or rubbing of his ears, which may indicate an infection.
- Inspect his paws for cuts or abrasions.
- His eyes should be clear with no discharge or redness.
- Check his feces for any undigested food or changes in consistency or frequency.
Certain symptoms could be a sign of something serious, while others may just indicate a minor issue. To be safe, consult your vet if you notice:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Unusual tiredness or lethargy
- Discharge from eyes or nose
- Fever
- Loss of appetite or significant changes in feeding habits
Owning a puppy comes with the joy of companionship, but it also brings the responsibility of ensuring your puppy’s health and well-being. Taking a few minutes each day to check on your puppy’s health should become part of your routine, helping to prevent issues down the road.
For more information about your puppy’s first vet visits and necessary vaccinations, refer to your veterinarian or trusted resources.
While caring for your new puppy requires effort, it's also an exciting and rewarding experience. You're helping your new family member adjust to his new life, and in return, he’ll bring immense joy to your household.
The CKC offers lots of helpful resources to guide you along the way.
At CKC Marketplace, we can help you find the perfect puppy. You can find CKC-registerable puppies from responsible, passionate breeders and access the tools you need for every step of the process.