If you are going to have a new puppy in your home, you want to be prepared for it. There are many steps you need to take to make your new puppy feel welcome in your home and make sure he or she stays healthy. You need to make sure they get the right vaccinations and get into a routine so that they feel comfortable with you and their surroundings.
Get them checked out and up-to-date on their vaccinations
A well-timed vaccination can go a long way towards protecting our young ones from the maladies of the world. There are many types of vaccines out there, and they are made specifically for different age groups. You may need to adjust your child’s schedule if they fall into a high-risk group.
Vaccines are not only safe, but they are effective as well. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has made many recommendations for protecting our kids from disease. In addition, they test out all of their products to ensure they are as safe as possible. If you are unsure of your family’s immunization status, you can always check with the local pharmacy to see if you need to be rescheduled.
As with any health-related endeavor, you should check with your doctor or pediatrician before you embark on any vaccination ventures. This is especially true if your child falls into a higher risk category. It’s best to be prepared when it comes to health, especially in light of recent outbreaks. Most schools require proof of immunizations to enter, and many will also offer incentives to get your kids checked out and up to date on their vaccinations.
For more information, you can visit the CDC at cdc.gov. Or, you can ask your child’s doctor or pediatrician for a list of recommended vaccines for your kids.
Get them into a routine
When you get a new puppy, you will need to establish a routine. This is important because it will help your puppy adjust to its new environment. It will also help you keep track of its behavior and establish good habits.
You can use a calendar to set a routine, but it is important that it be consistent. Changing the routine can cause unnecessary stress. Make sure that the puppy’s schedule is the same every day, and on the weekends.
The daily schedule will make it easier for you to take care of your puppy. Keeping a routine can also help your puppy learn new behaviors. While your pup may have some trouble adjusting in the beginning, it will be able to adapt quickly.
To keep your puppy active and engaged, you should give him plenty of exercise. Walking is an ideal way to do this. A good walk will also give your puppy the chance to socialize with other dogs and people.
Aside from your walks, you should also give your puppy time to play. Your puppy can become bored if he does not have a lot of time to play with you. Giving your pup some interactive toys can also help him out.
If you work, consider hiring a dog sitter. This will help you to spend more time with your puppy and allow you to have undivided attention.
Teach your kids about your new puppy’s routine
If you’re about to bring home a new puppy, you’ll need to teach your kids about your new pet’s daily routine. This will help them to feel comfortable and make a smooth transition into pet ownership.
You’ll need to plan out a schedule for your dog, including naps and playtimes. It’s also important to establish house rules. For example, you may have to divide chores among all family members.
Ideally, you’ll want to have a consistent bedtime. This is beneficial for your dog as well as for your entire family.
During the day, you should take your dog for walks and playtimes. These activities will keep him or her occupied and prevent accidents. In addition, it’s a good idea to give your pup a chew toy before family dinner.
The best way to teach your kids about your new dog’s routine is to set clear rules and follow through with training. Having a trained pet will also give your children a chance to learn responsibility and empathy.
While you are training your puppy, you should also spend time bonding with him or her. Even simple activities like petting or playing next to the dog will help to strengthen your relationship.
It’s also a good idea to learn how to read canine body language. There are free videos on YouTube and ZoomRoom, a site dedicated to helping people learn about dog body language.
Give them time to themselves
While many of us aren’t able to devote the time and attention to a new puppy, it is a good idea to make a point of spending a little quality time with our canine companions. In doing so, we can ensure that our new best friend will be well suited for the next phase of his or her life.
There are a number of factors to consider when it comes to making the right decisions for your new pet. First and foremost, it is imperative that you keep your pup’s mind at bay. This includes providing the most suitable environment for his or her unique needs. Another consideration is the appropriate training. You’ll also want to provide a healthy dose of love and affection so your new pet won’t develop inappropriate behaviors. Likewise, you’ll want to establish a routine and schedule so your pooch will have something to look forward to each and every day of the week.
Ultimately, it is a matter of time and your pet’s individual tastes, as well as your own. It is a good idea to leave a good part of the day free for you to attend to other family members’ needs. By doing so, you can provide the necessary serenity that your four legged best friend so desperately craves. The result is a more contented pup!
For example, it may be wise to give your puppy a few days off for the holidays. Similarly, you may wish to enlist the services of a local dog walker to take care of your canine companion while you’re away on business.
Transition your puppy to a new food
You might want to switch your puppy to a new food. This can happen for many reasons. It could be a result of a food recall, or a change in your pet’s lifestyle. Whatever the reason, you’ll want to get the transition done right.
It’s best to consult your vet before switching your dog’s food. They’ll be able to advise you on what type of food your puppy needs, and will be able to give you suggestions for the right formula for your pup.
Some dogs have a more difficult time switching to a new diet. This is usually because their digestive system is sensitive. To make the process easier, slow down the rate at which you switch your puppy to a new food.
If you do notice that your dog is experiencing some unpleasant symptoms, such as diarrhea or vomiting, stop the transition. Your vet may be able to prescribe an anti-diarrheal medication or recommend a different type of food.
During the transition, monitor your pet’s behavior and energy level. If you see any signs of stomach upset, such as diarrhea or vomiting, you should stop the process immediately and restart it with a lower-sodium, low-fat food.
The transition to a new food should take between two and seven days. After the first two days, slowly increase the percentage of the new food you’re feeding your dog. On the last day, feed 100% of the new food.
Encourage them to play on their own to prevent separation problems later in life
If you’re bringing home a new puppy, you might want to give them a little extra time to play before you leave them alone for the first time. Not only will this allow you to bond with your new puppy, it will also prepare them for a busy life ahead.
One of the best ways to do this is to create a separation plan. Start with a brief five-minute romp around the house, and build up the duration in small increments over time. The longer and more frequent your separations are, the more confident your pet will be and the less likely they will experience separation anxiety.
You may even want to consider installing a video camera or baby monitor to check in on your new puppy from time to time. Make sure you have a good cell phone signal to call home if need be.
To encourage your new puppy to play by your rules, consider leaving them a squeaky toy as a reward. This might sound like overkill, but your new pup will be a happier, calmer dog. And don’t forget to get a crate to keep them in.
There are plenty of other ways to entice your new pup into a more social lifestyle. Just make sure you don’t go too far. Aside from the aforementioned squeaky toy, make sure you give them enrichment and safe toys to play with.
