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Facts For You And Your Puppy

  

What do I need for the puppy when I get him home?

The needs for the puppy are much like that for a child, love, shelter and food. I always recommend crate training so a kennel of some kind is preferred to a room without carpet. A puppy can still chew on corners of cabinets and the like. A crate or kennel can be the 'pet taxi' style or a wire cage. It should be large enough for the puppy to stand in and not hit his head and he should have enough room to turn a fill circle. If you get one too large you may have trouble teaching him not to potty during the night. The idea behind this is that it is instinct for a puppy not to potty where they sleep, if there is enough room for the puppy to move to one end and do his job then go back to the other end to sleep that is what he will do.

It is not necessary to go out and buy the pup the new latest fashions in accessories and toys. A sturdy chew toy, a bowl for food and water; and a comb or brush and of course the puppy food, are the main essentials for a happy puppy.

As far as bedding, it is best to line the crate with newspapers for absorbency and use an old towel or blanket that can be thrown in the wash machine daily if need be.

What is the easiest way to house-break a puppy?

Puppies are like a well oiled machine. When they are done eating and walk away for their food dish, put it up. Take the puppy outside. He will have to eliminate within minutes of filling his belly. As soon as the puppy wakes, in the morning or from a nap, take the puppy outside. Puppies don't have a very large bladder or capacity to hold it for long, you may only have a few seconds to make it to the yard in time. Run! If you see the puppy, nose to the floor walking in circles, take him outside. Always use the same door and if there is an area of the yard that you prefer he use, take him there each time. If you are getting up with him two or three times during the night, you are probably feeding and watering him too late. Don't feed and water him after 6 p.m.

How often do I bath my puppy?

The best answer I can give to this question is "if his odor bothers you, by all means bath him!" Just be cautious with the shampoo that you use. Use a mild shampoo that will not dry out his skin. Using a conditioner is also a good idea, but be sure to rinse well. A lot of groomers will probably disagree with this but I often use my own shampoo on my dogs, I wash my hair everyday without drying out my scalp so I figure what is good for me is good enough for my dogs. There are also a lot of colognes on the market for dogs, use these sparingly as many contain alcohol.

What should I feed the puppy?

Prior to taking your puppy home discuss with your breeder what food the puppy has been eating and what his feeding schedule has been. A sudden change in diet can cause diarrhea. Also puppies are under enough stress adjusting to a new environment, try to stick with the schedule as closely as possible and make adjustments slowly.

I hope this information has been helpful, if you have other questions I am always happy to hear from you!