[Puzzle No More] [Non-Competitive Obedience Training for Your Dog. Veterinarian Approved. Veterinarian Recommended.] [Presented by Lauren Faggard, PhD, CBC, IACP]
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[ Home > Dog Training, Dog Obedience and Dog Care "Quick Tips" > How to Prepare for the Arrival of a New Puppy ]

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How to Prepare for the Arrival of a New Puppy

For most of us the best part of getting a new puppy is bringing them home for the very first time. Even for seasoned owners this can be a bit scary.

Try to schedule your puppy's arrival during a three day weekend or during a holiday. This will help your puppy adjust to their new surroundings. Puppies that are given this adjustment phase are less likely to bark, whine and be destructive. You can also work out your puppy's schedule and potty training. Plan a visit to the veterinarian. A well check protects family and existing pets. During the well check is the perfect time to have your puppy micro chipped and get flea, tick and heartworm preventative. Follow any special direction your veterinarian may have for feeding or caring for the breed you have chosen. Ask a technician to show you how to clean ears and trim nails.

When meeting family and friends, you should let the puppy come to them. No loud sounds or sudden movements. Next slowly introduce the other family animals. For dogs this is best done outside. We never want the current animal to feel threatened by the new arrival. Make it fun.

The new Puppy must have its own space. This is the perfect time for crate training. The crate will provide safety and security for the new and old alike. Crates are great den substitutes. When picking a crate choose opaque plastic not fabric. Go by dog's weight and then see if that size allows your puppy to stand up, turn around and stretch out comfortably. You will purchase several crates during the growth of your puppy. Never purchase wire crates. New puppies can't be left without supervision. They also need a potty break every 2-3 hours at the max. If you can't come home from work or school see about a puppy day care. This is the Best of both Worlds including Socialization.

Remember, in puppy proofing nothing is sacred to the K-9. Window seals and baseboards are a convenient height for chewing. Nothing is immune: corners on cabinets and chairs, fitness equipment, curtains, rugs, fringe, ruffles, chair and table legs, shoes, telephone and electrical cords, doors, pillows, plants, and anything that looks like fun! Get on your hands and knees and crawl around your house to get the dogs prospective. Find what could be unsafe or fun.
  1. Secure all electrical cords.
  2. Put latches on cabinets.
  3. Medications and cleaning products should be put away.
  4. All trash cans should have lids.
  5. Remove all house plants. Some are poisonous.
  6. Pet and baby gates are great for stairs.
  7. Pick up all choking hazards and breakables.
  8. Blinds and drapes should be out of reach.
  9. Check your yard for hazards. Walk the fence line.
You can't deter a dog with red pepper, bitter tastes or other ploys. You could, however, risk damage to your pet. Why not just start Obedience training.