1. Puppy-proof your home
Secure the perimeter- make sure outdoor and indoor living areas are clearly defined with secure latches, gates and locks.
Well placed baby or dog gates are great tool to keep your puppy out of trouble when you are not close by.
Double check for hazards around the house- chemicals, poisons, loose nails, electrical wires (cell phone chargers) , baby/children’s toys that could be swallowed, heaters/fire hazards, pools, unsecure/incomplete fence(s).
2. Puppy Starter Kit
Here are a few items I always recommend for new pups…
Dog (puppy) food, treats, edible bones, biscuits, bowls for water and food.
Collar, leash, consider a front clip harness or head halter.
Poop bags, chemical deodorizer for potty accidents and doggy shampoo
Dog crate, 1-3 comfy dog beds for different rooms and playpen/ex-pen
contact info for your friendly neighborhood dog trainer : - )
3. Introducing collar or harness
Give your pup a sticky treat or peanut butter filled Kong.
Scratch and message his neck.
Buckle collar.
Distract your pup with something fun! (Distraction is generally the best strategy)
4. Introducing Leash
Introduce the leash at chowtime!
If the pup get nervous or freezes, encourage movement with yummy treats.
If the pup decides to throw a tantrum or bucks to escape, try to distract him instead of removing the leash.
5. Introducing crate and kennels
Gather up and prepare a good amount of patience ; - )
Make sure the puppy crate is comfy. Use pillows, dog beds and blankets
It is sooooooo important that your pup is tired and fully pottied before crate time.
Lure and/or cajole puppy to want to explore the inside of the crate on his own. Use treats and food.
Close the crate door and sit/relax quietly in the same room.
DO NOT open the crate door while the puppy is barking.
Reward his silence in the crate with freedom!
Rinse and repeat!
“Now go on now- I said, GET!!! Go into the world and try out these simple puppy tips : )
