If you’re reading this entry, there is a good chance that you recently acquired a new puppy; congratulations! The next few weeks are going to be very exciting, fun, and there will sure to be moments of pure frustration. While those moments can test your patience, having the right tools on hand can help ensure that the fun and joyful moments are the most memorable. Here are some items that every new puppy owner should have.
The Puppy Manual is a step-by-step instruction manual that will help ensure that you and your puppy get off on the right foot. The Puppy Manual is available for instant download to your computer and covers everything from crate training, potty training, socialization, handling drills, preventing fear issues and resource guarding and so much more. To learn more about the Puppy Manual and to watch a short video, click here.
A properly sized crate is one of the most valuable items you should have. We have discussed the importance of crate training in other blog entries and is going to be a crucial aid in potty training your puppy. There are many different types of crates available but I would recommend a metal crate with a divider that can be expanded as your puppy grows. Be sure to stay away from fabric or collapsible crates as they do not fair well if/when your puppy has an accident.
A leash and collar (or maybe a harness) are things that should be introduced to your puppy at a young age. Not only should your puppy get used to wearing a collar on a daily basis, but having a leash attached is a great way to minimize the amount of trouble they can get into by controlling his or her space and aids in potty training. Your leash and collar are also going to be crucial to aiding in socialization as you should be taking your puppy to new environments on a daily basis. At extremely young ages, puppies will not know how to heel on a leash and will most likely be pulling. Although a harness will not stop the pulling, it will take a lot of pressure off of your puppy’s neck until they can be taught to heel.
A variety of toys should be on hand and given to your puppy at the appropriate times. Interactive toys are great for teaching your dog to think and keeping their minds occupied. Hard chew toys, plush toys, toys that squeak and toys with different textures are also great for puppies as well. Although your puppy should have access to a variety of toys, it doesn’t mean that all toys should be left out for your dog to destroy, eat, or choke on.
Treats should be implemented in daily life for your puppy. Whether it’s used to reward an outside potty, used as a trade when preventing resource guarding, given out by new people meeting your pup, teaching your pup to have a gentle mouth, or simply as a training reward. Puppies love treats, use them!
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