Once the excitement of bringing home your new puppy settles down, reality can set in. A new puppy is a big responsibility. This is especially true for first-time dog owners. Make sure you’re ready to keep your pup safe and healthy!
Find the Right Food
When you are a first-time dog owner, it can sometimes be hard to get the right food. It is best to start with something and stick with it, but that might not always be practical. If your puppy is getting sick after eating or if is uninterested in the food after a few days, you may want to try a different brand. Always remember, though, to use puppy food. This is because the recipe that is used is different from adult dog food and is catered to the nutritional needs of puppies.
Think About Containment
How do you plan on keeping your puppy safe inside and out? Even if you plan to let your dog do its business while on a leash, it still needs room to run in your yard. A chain link fence will help keep your puppy in the yard without obstructing the views you have outside your yard.
Visit the Vet
While it can be easy to brush off vet visits or simply not take your puppy because he or she seems fine, you still need to go. Puppies and adult dogs both need to visit the vet to make sure that they are in good health. Preventative care can save you a lot of money later on. It is also a good idea to stay up to date on any vaccinations your vet recommends so your puppy is protected against diseases.
Socialize Your Pal
A huge mistake many people make with their new puppies is not socializing them. Invite a lot of people to your house while your dog is still a puppy so it is comfortable with seeing different people. It is also a good idea to take your puppy everywhere you can to expose it to new experiences. A well-adjusted puppy will make for a well-behaved dog in the future.
If the responsibility of a new puppy is overwhelming, take your time. You will be able to bond with your new pup and have him on the right track with just a little work. Always remember that your puppy’s safety and health should be your number one priority above training them to do tricks or listen to you.