The DO’s and DONT’s of Puppy Ownership

Welcoming Your New Pup

Getting a new puppy can be an overwhelmingly wonderful time! While adding a new furry member to your family is fun, there is a bit of work involved to ensure that your pup acclimates well and thrives in their new home. After working with dozens of puppy’s over the years, I have come up with a few key DO’s and DONT’s when it comes to raising a pup. Did you know that the first 4 months of a puppy’s life is the most critical time period developmentally? Therefore, every little moment counts towards creating a happy and balanced pup! By following my DO’s and DONT’s, you will be well on your way to bringing up the dog of your DREAMS!

DO: Start Training Right Away

DO begin training as soon as you get your pup. A fun and simple exercise you can begin teaching your puppy right away is The Name Game—the sooner your pup knows their name, the sooner they will come when called!

DO: Crate Train and Create Structure

DO crate trained your puppy! Dogs are naturally den like animals and love the concept of having an area all to themselves. Crate training and creating a daily routine is what a puppy needs to succeed!

DO: Prioritize Rest and Naps

DO give your puppy plenty of naps! A young puppy needs 18-20 hours of structured rest a day. A well rested puppy does not exhibit nuisance behavioral issues such as barking, biting, or jumping.

DON’T: Carry Them Everywhere

DON’T carry your puppy everywhere! Your puppy needs to become comfortable walking on all different kinds of surfaces. Exposing them to different textures and surfaces now does wonders in reducing fear-based issues in the future.

DON’T: Delay Outdoor Time

DON’T wait too long to bring them outside! Proper socialization with their environment starts now. Quiet, short walks around your property where they can smell, see people and cars go by, as well as observe other dogs walking on leash is fundamental in opening up your pup’s world. Keeping them sheltered is detrimental to the development process.

DON’T: Allow Free Range of the House

DON’T allow your pup free range of your home. Your pup needs limits! When they are out of their crate they can be hanging out in a puppy play pen or walking around with you on leash.

Building the Foundation for a Lifetime of Adventures

The first few months of having a puppy can be a crazy time. Make it less crazy by following these key DO’s and DONT’s! Remember, you have your dog’s whole life ahead of them to go on all kinds of adventures. But, you only have a few months to set the foundation to ensure that they will grow up to be the kind of dog, that can go on those adventures successfully. Now go and enjoy time with your new four-legged friend!