Bringing home a new puppy is exciting! But, before you bring that sweet furry bundle home, make sure you’re ready with this checklist!
By taking the proper time to prepare for your new puppy, you are setting them – and the family – up for success!
Keep reading to learn more.
What is the Right Breed for Your Family?
Think about things like size, shedding, sociability, shedding, personality as well as exercise and medical requirements. Honestly assess your family and lifestyle and ensure everyone understands what is involved in the daily routine of feeding, exercising and training a new puppy. They are a lot of fun, but they are also depending upon their new family to fulfill their daily needs.
Choose a Local Vet & Emergency Vet!
Regular check-ups and medical care are essential for a happy and healthy dog! Make sure your vet’s phone numbers and addresses are in your phone and mapped in your GPS before an emergency happens!
Have the Basics!
- Collar + Leash + ID Tag
- Bowls for Food & Water (18-gauge stainless steel bowls inhibit bacterial growth)
- Grooming Supplies:
- Brush
- Dog-friendly nail clipper
- Dog-friendly toothbrush/toothpaste (never human toothpaste!)
- Ear Wipes
- Dog Shampoo
- Poop Bags
- Car Harness or Travel Crate
- Dog Crate for Your Home + Dog Bed, Crate Pad or Blankets
- Food & Treats (preferably the same as their current diet)
- Toys; especially durable toys for teething puppies
Use PetFinder’s Checklist as an Adopter of a New Puppy!
Puppy-Proof Your Home!
Just like babyproofing is critical, the same is true before you bring home that cute and very curious young canine! K9s explore – and learn about – their world through their noses and mouths, so keep that in mind when puppy-proofing your home.
Look at your home through the eyes – and height – of a puppy. Use baby gates to block dangerous stairs and the entrance to the kitchen to keep them away from tempting food and trash! Also keep electrical cords and wires, medicines, cleaning supplies, plants, knick-knacks, candles and small toys away from your precious pup to protect them.
Click here for the AKC’s Puppy-Proofing Tips for Your Home and Yard!
Choose a Local Trainer & Classes
It is never too early to begin training your new puppy! Teaching obedience early establishes a strong foundation of communication, trust and respect between you and your dog.
Training also involves another critical component for puppies, socialization. This involves positive exposures to a variety of people, pets, environments, noises and smells to create a well-adjusted and confident dog without fears, anxieties and unsocial behaviors.
Ask other dog owners, your vet and the breeder or shelter for recommendations for a positive-reinforcement dog trainer in your area. Both you and your puppy should be comfortable with the trainer you choose and excited about training! If this is not the case, find another trainer.
Obtain Pet Insurance!
New owners often do not add pet insurance to the list. But it is important to have the right insurance in place for your growing puppy like it is for you and your family.
Each company offers different costs, coverages and pre-existing limitations, so do your research. Again, reach out to other dog owners, vets, and other dog experts for recommendations to obtain the best coverage before your pup needs it.
Click here to learn about the 7 Best Pet Insurance Companies in 2020
and other tips for choosing the best insurance plan for your pet.
Click here for the New Puppy Checklist: 15 Things You Must Do!
ARKANSAS BEAR CREEK GOLDENS AND DOODLES
We are a small family breeder located in the heart of the Ozarks in Northern Arkansas. We strive to raise healthy, happy, well-socialized, quality Golden Retriever, Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Mini Labradoodle, and Aussiedoodle puppies.
Want more information about any of our puppies or upcoming litters?
Please text or call us at 870-404-0127 or 870-404-1189 or use our Contact Form here for more information.
