New Puppy Checklist
New Puppy Checklist Items
If you are planning on getting a new puppy, you should make a new puppy checklist. This can help you to be prepared for anything that can happen with the new puppy. You can start by learning about the specific breed you are purchasing and how to make it happy, healthy and comfortable. Your new puppy check list should include what type of food to give to the new dog and what kind of temperament it has.
New puppies may be a bit scared after being separated from their mother. If the puppy is younger than 7 to 8 weeks old, it is too young for separation. When purchasing a puppy, the seller should have this information and he should also have information on the shots that it has been given and if it has been treated for worms.
It may be less expensive to get a free puppy but this may not be a good idea. Free animals usually are not checked out by a veterinarian. They will not have shots or worming. Although they might look happy and cute, they may already have health problems because they have not yet seen a veterinarian. These health problems can affect other animals in the household and may also be dangerous for your family. It is better to purchase a puppy from a reputable seller to make sure that you are getting a healthy pet.
The first thing on your new puppy checklist should be to make it comfortable in your home. Do not attempt to train or discipline the pup until it is used to its new surroundings. Introduce every family member to the new pup and make sure it has an area that it can retreat to if it becomes tired or hungry.
New puppies have a tendency to cry and become anxious at night. It is a good idea to use a crate to train the dog. You can place it there at night and lock the crate. The puppy will get used to sleeping in this crate and over time he will see it as his house. He might go there to play with his toys or to take a nap during the day. Make sure the crate has a pad or blanket for the new puppy to lay on. Crates are also a good way to potty train the puppy. Dogs do not like to sleep around feces or urine. So they can eventually learn to wait until morning to use the bathroom and this can also be a great time to schedule a walk for the puppy.
Another important thing to add to your puppy checklist is chew toys. Without these types of toys the dog can pick one of your favorite shoes or blankets to chew on. Chew toys can help the puppy develop stronger teeth and at the same time, your personal items will not be destroyed. You should also go through your home and puppy proof it. Remove smaller items that the puppy can get a hold of and choke on and make sure that he cannot chew on any electrical cords in the home.
Along with the proper shots and medications, a trip to the veterinarian can be helpful. He can assess if the puppy has any other problems like fleas, ticks or ear mites. All of these things are especially harmful for new puppies that are in the process of growing.
If you take the time to make sure everything on your new puppy checklist is done properly, you can have a new healthy family member. The puppy can grow into a healthy adult and you can enjoy it for many years to come.