By Jim Hodges
Puppy Training in Greensboro. Taking your puppy home for the first time can be exciting, happy and scary all at the same time. You want to make sure you do everything right. Make no mistake, there will be growing “growing pains” for you and your puppy during your first weeks together. Here are some tips to help with the transition.
It would be nice if you can make some time to spend with your puppy in the beginning, particularly if she is very young. Time from work or school will insure that your puppy begins to adapt well. It will also help with the bonding process that can positively affect you and your dog for the rest of your lives together.
The very first thing I would do is buy a dog crate and have it set up prior to bringing your puppy home. Crate training is the absolute best way to raise a puppy. It is good for you and your puppy. It gives you some relaxation from having to watch your puppy every second and it gives your puppy a secure place to sleep and rest without being disturbed.
If possible, put a blanket or stuffed toy that contains the mother’s scent in with your puppy at night. This may help to soothe her. How do you do this? Take an item and have the breeder put it with the mother and her siblings or rub her with it.
Find a wind up clock that ticks. This ticking will help pacify your puppy as it is getting used to being without its mother and litter mates. Put it in with your puppy whenever you cannot be with her (especially at night). Never take your puppy out of the crate while it is barking or whining.
Be ready to effectively clean up mistakes. No matter how vigilant you are, accidents are going to happen. I recommend investing in an enzyme removal cleaner made especially for puppy/dog mistakes. This is essential for cleanup of the visible mistake and the smells that may get left behind.
Purchase a bottle of Bitter Apple spray or another taste deterrent for dogs. The purpose of this is to regularly spray objects that the puppy may mouth. The bad taste should discourage the puppy from tasting again. Don’t forget to use the spray often.
You absolutely have to puppy proof your home. You do this just as you would baby proof your home. Electrical cords, items left on the floor, open cabinets are just a few things you have to watch for. Go ahead and get down on all fours. Visually inspect the area your puppy will travel from her point of view.
Hopefully, these puppy suggestions on new puppy behavior will help you endure your first week with your puppy and set the stage for a fantastic life together. Consistency and a watchful eye are keys to making it through this time period.
If and when you are ready for further training, click here to call us at Dog Training Greensboro. Thank you and good luck!
{ Comments on this entry are closed }
