Proud Dog Salon – Taking Your Puppy Home
Most pet stores keep a wide variety of dog beds. It is a good idea to place the dog bed in a busy part of your home, so that the puppy is not alone and he can also watch the family interaction. As all puppies chew almost everything, it would be a good idea to consider buying a plastic bed that is easily washable and that has a removable cushion in it. This way it will only be the cushion that requires replacing when your puppy decided to make a meal of it! Although your puppy will be cute and you will enjoy snuggling with him or her, do not be tempted to take the puppy into your bed, as you will never be able to get the puppy to accept his bed again.
Buy your puppy a selection of toys to keep him busy and stimulated. Just be sure that they do not have anything small such as a button that can be chewed off and have the puppy choke on it. A few chewy toys are most suitable as they also help with teething.
You will also need to invest in some food bowls. The best ones are the stainless steel ones that have a rubber base underneath to prevent the bowl from sliding around while the puppy is eating. Besides the food bowl, your dog must have a separate water bowl that is always clean and full of fresh water. Water is essential at all times, as if a dog has no water for more than 48 hours, they could suffer from dehydration.
If your puppy is a small breed of dog, two feeds per day should be adequate from the age of about six months. Before that age all breeds of puppies will need three or more meals a day. There are numerous dry dog foods on the market today so if you are uncertain, consult your vet for a recommendation. If your puppy refuses to eat for 24 hours, consult your vet, as he or she if more than likely not well.
Try to establish a routine with your puppy with regard to feeding time, sleeping time, play time, etc. Start training your puppy early by teaching him the basic commands such as “sit”, “down”, “stay”, “no”, etc. When house-training your puppy, remember to take it outside to the same spot every time your puppy has had a meal, or had a play session or had a sleep. When your puppy does it’s “business” remember to praise it enthusiastically.
Never leave your puppy unsupervised with small children or other pets and be sure to make your garden and also your home puppy safe, especially if you have a swimming pool.
Most of all, enjoy your puppy because when you look again he/she will be an adult dog!
Article by Dawn Carter, owner of Proud Dog Salon
Proud Dog Salon is situated in Centurion, visit our website to find out more about our grooming and other services or to book an appointment for your furry family member – www.prouddogsalon.co.za