For soon-to-be paw-parents, the prospect of bringing a tiny, tail-wagging bundle of joy into your life is nothing short of magical.
Whether you’re an experienced pet owner or a first timer, preparing for your new puppy is an adventure filled with love, excitement, and just a sprinkle of chaos. Let’s embark on this puppy journey together and create a safe, fun, and loving haven for your new best friend!
1. Things to do before the big home coming!
- Try to create in advance a cosy, new puppy friendly hideaway. This could be an open crate with warm blankets or a soft bed in the corner out of the way. This is their pup safe haven- no hoomans allowed (unless invited).
- Register your new puppy with a local veterinary clinic.
- Check your new puppy is chipped. It is now a legal requirement that dogs over the age of 8 weeks should be microchipped.
2.Before your new puppy arrives and starts exploring every nook and cranny, it’s time to puppy-proof your space.
Here’s a checklist to help you get started:
- Secure Cords and Small Objects: New puppies are curious by nature, so make sure electrical cords, small decorations, and anything easily swallowed are out of reach.
- Safe Spaces: Ensure that areas like stairs, balconies, or busy kitchens are either gated or supervised to prevent accidental mishaps.
- Household Hazards: Double-check for toxic plants, chemicals, or sharp objects that could make your little one poorly.
- Register for pet insurance. Spend some time before you collect your furry bundle of joy to research which policy will be best for your family’s needs as each insurance has different benefits.
3.Getting together your new puppy essentials.
- Food/water bowls – Look for durable, non-slip options that can withstand even the most enthusiastic lapping.
- A crate & or bed – size appropriate and extremely cosy.
- Food – Choose a high-quality diet tailored for growing pups—consult your vet for recommendations. (ask the Breeder what they have weaned the litter on to) We recommend Laughing Dog Puppy grain-free complete dry food, super tasty and gentle on tummies too!
- Treats – look out for feeding guidelines to make sure they are suitable for your new puppy. Laughing Dogs’ treats are suitable from 12 weeks of age.
- Collar, lead and tag – Start training early with a well-fitted collar and a sturdy leash, setting the stage for future adventures.
- Car restraint
- Toys- From squeaky toys to chew-resistant bones, a variety of toys will keep your new puppy entertained and help soothe teething discomfort.
- Puppy pads for training
- Poo bags (lots)
- A brush for grooming
- Puppy toothbrush
- Doggy toothpaste
- Dog shampoo
- Blankets (cosy and a few)
4.The big day has arrived – bringing your new puppy home!
The day you bring your new puppy home to begin your new family adventures is incredibly exciting but can be a little daunting for both you and your pup!
Try to remember when your new puppy comes home with you, he could be as young as 8-10 weeks old and leaving his surroundings and his mum for the first time. Travelling in a car with a new family and being introduced to a new environment with lots to explore is possibly the biggest adventure they will ever have in one day!
- Try to schedule their home coming for when you have a few days of work if possible, to help them settle in and slowly build the bond between you.
- Let your new best friend come to you in their own time, patience is key! Ask excited friends and family to give you a few days to help your pup feel confident in their new home before coming to say hello. Remember with a little time, trust will come and you will soon be their bestest friend for life so don’t worry if they aren’t running to you instantly.
5. Try to introduce house rules from the off!
- For example, If you really don’t want a dog sitting on your glorious new sofa, don’t let a new puppy get used to snuggles on there. Stair gates are a great way to create a physical boundary to help your pup understand before learning commands.
- Schedule a Vet Visit: A check-up within the first week is a great way to ensure your new friend is healthy and to get any essential vaccinations on track.
As you prepare your home and heart for this new chapter, remember that every moment, from the first adorable misstep to the endless cuddles, is part of the beautiful journey of puppy parenthood. Embrace the playful chaos, relish the tiny paws and new puppy kisses, and know that you’re creating a lifelong bond with a furry friend who will bring immeasurable joy to your life.
