Preparing for Puppy

Before Puppy Arrives

• Puppy proof your home. Remove anything you don't want the puppy to chew on. Also remember dangerous things like extension cords and choking hazards. A good idea might be to get down on your hands and knees to see what they will be looking at from that level.
• Get supplies: __Puppy Food and Bowls ___Leash ___Collar with ID tags ___Crate and Bedding ____Training clicker ___Nail clippers ___Dog shampoo ___Doggy bath towel ___Carpet spot cleaner ___Paper towels
• Puppy needs safe chew toys: ___Balls ___Chew ropes ___ Rubber Toys ....cloth like toys should only be used under constant supervision (they can be a choking hazard).
• Positive Reinforcement Treats: ___Small pieces of hot dog or cheese ___Cooked meats (ham, bacon, sausage, etc. are too rich and not good for your puppy.) ___Store bought varieties are good too, but the real meat is often more motivating.
• Read through the puppy training methods.

These are what the packages look like of foods we are currently feeding. You should be able to click on the photo to enlarge

Look for an AAFCO statement on any kind of food you are thinking of using.

It will tell you if it's approved for:

- "PUPPY"

- "All Life Stages"

- "Adults"

What to expect

• Have an ambulance close by because you might just have your heart stop when you see how dang cute they are!
• Puppy will whine at night at first. This is normal separation anxiety and will pass. Let them sleep with the blanket we sent with them. It really helps. It's important not to be harsh with them during this phase. Just remember it's not fun for them either. They will transfer their "litter" bond to you in almost no time at all. Don't wash the blanket until they do.
• Puppy will be ready for potty training right away. This process will go much smoother and quicker if you can be around all day to get this habit trained from the start.
• Begin obedience training right away. It only takes 1-2 minute sessions several times a day and your puppy will love every moment of it.
• Don't over do it with strenuous activities. Their bones can only handle the normal gentle playing. Intense activity, before puppy is finished growing, can cause arthritis and hip problems later in life. Short leash walks are fine as well, but avoid putting the dog on a leash and going on a run till they are fulyl grown (usually about 18 months). If you plan to compete in agility, this also needs to wait till they are done growing. Don't start the training until about 18 months. Focus on obedience training and bonding with your puppy. It is always fun to throw in some training of tricks as well:)