Essential checklist for new dog owners

Essential checklist for new dog owners

Article by OKEYPETS

This is really a super happy decision. You are going to raise a puppy. From now on, you will have a close friend, a warm family, and a cute little one who brings you happiness! However, before you bring your little cutie home, you must understand clearly what items you need to prepare in advance so that your puppy can feel warm and quickly integrate into the new home.

1. Puppy Supplies

Before your puppy arrives, it’s essential to have the necessary supplies to keep them comfortable, healthy, and safe. Here's a checklist of basic items to get started:

Food and Water Bowls: Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are durable and easy to clean. You’ll also need a steady supply of fresh water at all times.

Puppy Food: Choose a high-quality, vet-recommended puppy food that meets the nutritional needs for their growth. Make sure the food is specifically formulated for puppies.

Crate: A crate provides a safe space for your puppy and aids with house training. Pick a size that allows the puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Puppy Bed: Ensure it’s soft and cozy but also washable in case of accidents.

Toys: Chew toys, teething rings, and interactive toys keep your puppy mentally stimulated and help with teething discomfort.

Leash and Collar: Choose a lightweight, adjustable collar and a durable leash for training and walks. Include ID tags with your contact information. Okeypets as a professional dog collar ,leash and harness manufacturer, we produce all kinds of dog collar , leash ,and harness , products with your own brand and patterns , you could contact us for more details . 

Puppy Pads or Newspapers: For house training and accidents, puppy pads can be useful until they are fully trained.

Grooming Supplies: Invest in a brush suitable for your puppy's coat type, nail clippers, and gentle puppy shampoo.

Puppy Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Dental hygiene should begin early to prevent problems later.

2. Puppy-Proofing Your Home

Puppies are naturally curious and will explore their new environment. It’s important to puppy-proof your house to avoid any potential hazards:

Remove Toxic Plants: Some common houseplants like lilies, azaleas, and philodendrons can be toxic to dogs. Keep them out of reach.

Hide Electrical Cords: Puppies love to chew, and electrical cords can be dangerous. Use cord covers or keep them out of your puppy’s reach.

Keep Small Objects Away: Items like rubber bands, buttons, or small toys can be a choking hazard.

Install Baby Gates: Use gates to block off restricted areas or stairs until your puppy is old enough to navigate them safely.

3. Veterinary Care and Vaccinations

Schedule a Vet Visit: Your first vet visit should happen within the first week of bringing your puppy home. The vet will perform a general health check, provide advice on feeding, and discuss vaccinations and parasite control.

Vaccinations: Puppies need a series of vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age. Common vaccines include distemper, parvovirus, and rabies.

Flea and Tick Prevention: Ask your vet about flea and tick prevention methods, especially if your puppy will spend time outdoors.

4. Socialization and Training

Socialization: Expose your puppy to different people, environments, and other dogs (in safe, controlled settings) from an early age. This helps prevent behavioral issues later on.

Basic Obedience Training: Start teaching basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" right away. Puppies respond best to positive reinforcement like treats and praise.

Crate Training: Crate training helps with housebreaking and provides your puppy with a safe, secure place. Make the crate a positive space by rewarding your puppy when they go inside.

5. House Training

Establish a Routine: Puppies thrive on routine. Feed them at the same times each day and take them outside frequently, especially after meals, playtime, and naps.

Praise for Success: Reward your puppy with praise and treats when they go to the bathroom outside. Avoid punishing accidents, as this can confuse the puppy.

6. Teething and Chewing

Puppies will chew a lot during their teething phase (usually between 4 and 7 months). Provide a variety of appropriate chew toys to help soothe their gums. This will also prevent them from chewing on furniture or shoes.

7. Patience and Consistency

Raising a puppy requires a lot of patience. Puppies learn at different speeds, so be consistent with your commands and routines. Positive reinforcement works best when training puppies.

Conclusion

By preparing the right supplies, creating a safe environment, and following a consistent training routine, you can provide the best possible start for your new puppy!

Guangzhou OKEYPETS Products Co.,Ltd, Which a professional pet products company. OKEYPETS have passed the ISO90001 certification system and BSCI certification system.

OKEYPETS focuses on all kinds of pet products. The company's main products are Collars, Leashes, Harness for dogs and cats. Dog rope leashes, pets Life jackets, pets clothes, pet toys, pet accessories, and other pet products. The company has been engaged in pet products for many years, we often participates in professional pet products exhibitions in China and abroad.

Additional Puppy FAQs

1.How often should I feed my puppy?

Puppies typically need 3-4 meals a day until they are about six months old. After that, they can be fed twice a day.

2.When should I start socializing my puppy?

Socialization should start as early as 7-8 weeks. Just ensure they are vaccinated before exposing them to unfamiliar dogs or environments.

3.How long can I leave my puppy alone?

Very young puppies should not be left alone for more than 1-2 hours at a time. As they get older and more comfortable, you can gradually increase this time, but always ensure they have food, water, and a safe place.

4.When should I start training my puppy?

Training should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. Start with basic commands and gradually introduce more complex ones.

5.What if my puppy cries at night?

It’s common for puppies to feel anxious in their new environment. Keep their crate in your room or nearby to comfort them, and offer them a soft toy or blanket.