If you’re like me, you’ve been looking forward to the day when you finally get a puppy. Puppies are such a joy to have around, and they add so much happiness to a home. But with all that cuteness comes a lot of responsibility. It’s important to make sure that you’re prepared for everything that comes with bringing a new puppy into your home.
Welcoming a new puppy into their forever home is not unlike bringing home a new baby. Puppies need cuddle time, feeding, sleep time, playtime, and regular toileting (and lots lots of praise when he or she goes outside for wees and never ever reprimand for little mishaps) They also need to be on their own to learn and understand that you are not there 24 hours a day but will always return.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips for making the transition go as smoothly as possible.
Tip One: Puppy Proof
One of the most important things you can do when welcoming a new puppy into your home is to Puppy Proof your house. This means taking some time to look around your home and identify any potential hazards that could be harmful to your pup. Puppies are curious creatures, and they’ll put just about anything in their mouths. So it’s important to make sure that all cleaning supplies, medications, and other potentially harmful substances are out of reach. You should also take a close look at your electrical cords and make sure they’re not easily accessible. Puppies like to chew on things, and electrical cords can pose a serious risk of electrocution.
Tip Two: Routine is Key
Another important tip for making the transition smooth is to create a routine for your puppy from the start. Puppies thrive on routine and predictability, so it’s important to establish a regular feeding schedule, potty schedule, and bedtime routine from the very beginning. This will help your puppy feel comfortable and secure in their new home.
Tip Three: Loving Scents
I have in the past before my new puppy arrived brought and slept with a 3 Hound Sausages Snuggle Sack and soft toy like a Heart Beat Puppy or Heart Beat Lamb or any Soft Toy so they had my scent on them. You could also ask your Breeder to provide a piece of a blanket or toy the mother slept on as this will also be a comfort in helping your puppy transition into their new life.
Tip Four: Crate Training
Owning Dachshunds myself who have all been crate trained, I am a believer in crate training as it is not only the puppy’s bed it is also their safe place to go to when they just need their own time. Crate training is an art and I start off having the crate covered with a blanket and right next to my bed so when my puppy wined & cried, I would just dangle my hand down for her to sniff and know that I am right there with her. Yes, your puppy will not like being locked in at the start so be prepared for a few sleepless nights, but it does get better.
Remember during the night that you puppy has no bladder control, so you need to take them out during the night for a few wee pit stops.
Tip Five: Love & Play
Finally, one of the most important things you can do for your new puppy is to give them plenty of love and attention. Puppies are social creatures, and they need plenty of time to bond with their new family. So make sure you set aside some quality time each day to play with your pup, cuddle with them, and just spend some time enjoying their company.
Remember...
- You and your puppy are in this together
- Crate training is highly recommended
- Be patient as this is a learning curve for both of you
- Toileting takes time and by that it could be 3 months plus and often three steps forward and two steps back
- Enjoy your puppy as they give back so much love, devotion, friendship and loyalty
Following these tips will help you create a smooth transition for your new puppy into their forever home! Do you have any other tips to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below! Thanks for reading! Puppy love, always. xo.
P.S If you are thinking of getting a new puppy, please consider adopting from your local shelter or rescue organization first! There are so many wonderful pups waiting for their forever homes. xo.
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