Getting your first puppy is an exciting experience. When you bring your new little fluffy one home you are overjoyed to have a new companion. Often our expectations are that it will fit right in and we will have no troubles installing them into our environment. However, getting a puppy can be a challenge.
Since puppies aren’t yet housebroken and can be susceptible to illnesses and other issues it is important to make sure that you are prepared for the beginning stages after you bring your new pet home. Here are some of the best tips to get started for when you get a puppy for the first time.
Get a Crate
Even though accidents happen initially as you teach your new puppy where it is allowed and not allowed to go to the bathroom, it is important to take measures to ensure that this won’t happen for long.
One of the best ways to make sure that you avoid unpleasant smells and stains throughout your house from puppy accidents is to buy a crate. A crate is proven to considerably increase the speed of housebreaking a puppy. When a dog feels like it is in a confined space it is less inclined to pee or poop. This way you can encourage the puppy to only go to the bathroom when you take it outside out of its crate. Initially, you leave your puppy in its crate during the night and when you leave it behind in your home. After the housebreaking is done then you can leave the crate door open and your dog will associate it with its own space of the home which is entirely theirs.
Vacuum Frequently
Vacuuming regularly will decrease your chances of a flea problem as well as eliminate most of the hair and dandruff which naturally accumulates with a pet in the home. Even if you have a short haired dog you should still vacuum frequently.
When you vacuum you should make sure to get not only carpeted areas but also hardwood or linoleum surfaces to ensure you’ve gotten all of the hairs.
Walk Your Dog Every Day
Dogs need to be exercised every day. Larger dogs should be let out to run for at least an hour a day while smaller dogs may only require a short walk. This is not only going to make your dog healthier but they will be less prone to boredom which can lead to chewing or destroying your things.
Play With Your Dog
A dog needs to be interacted with regularly and given affection. Ideas for playing with your dog can be throwing a ball, playing tug of war, or simply running around in a large space.