Bringing Home Puppy
Generally when people think about getting a new puppy, they tend to idealize what it might be like. Puppies are adorable and have those head tilts and puppy eyes. I believe life with a dog really is better. Still, I think it’s important to remember that this change in lifestyle can be complicated and time consuming.
Puppies are incredibly demanding of your time and attention, and they are learning to be away from mom and litter mates. Your patience will be tested, and you may find yourself occasionally feeling unsure about your decision (the puppy blues)— but if you put in the time and effort, you will almost certainly be rewarded with an enjoyable companion and family member for many years to come.
As you transition your puppy remember they are doing what they know and have done for the last 8 weeks. Puppies explore with their mouths and correct each other with nips. Teaching family members how to redirect the puppy will be important.
Below are some links to articles that you may find helpful and please visit the online training section to learn more about Bella and Baxter training as an option.
https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/behavior/kidnapped-from-planet-dog/
https://www.pumpkin.care/blog/first-night-with-new-puppy/
https://embarkvet.com/resources/6-tips-for-taking-care-of-your-new-puppy/
https://www.pitpat.com/puppy/puppy-blues-how-to-cope-when-things-go-wrong/
The first few months - It takes time, patience & consistency
First Days
First Months
First Weeks
Create a Routine
For the the first few days they are adjusting to being away from mom and littermates . It is a whole new world to them and they need time to adjust . They may be nervous and scared and need time to decompress. Their personalities emerge once they feel settled and comfortable.
Start your daily routine, where/when they eat, sleep and go out. Become the pack leader by staying calm, creating a schedule and giving directions. Don't change their food or force interactions, give them a bit of time to adjust.
They have been playing with littermates by wrestling, nipping , rough housing. They need to learn they can't do that with humans the same way. Lots of toys, use of crate and/or exercise pen help distract and teach them boundaries.
Vet visit should be done.
First Weeks
First Months
First Weeks
For the first few weeks the puppy is settling in. After about 3 weeks they feel more settled and will start to test boundaries. This is not a regression but a progression as the pup is feeling safe and is now trying to see what they can get away with.
Give calm, clear, consistent directions. All family members should be providing the same directions. You should have a consistent set of house rules.
Pup is on the way with housetraining, but their bladders and digestive systems are still developing so they need time. Pups should be brought out every few hours and after every meal.
Keep practicing basic commands, sit, down, come . Brushing coat and teeth should be part of routine. Praise every success and calmly say no to unwanted behaviours.
Socialization - introducing your pup to new things in a controlled safe way should be underway. This doesn't mean dog parks, it involves new sounds, textures, places and people.
https://maggieandnicole.com/puppy-socialization/
https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/resource/socializing-your-dog
Follow vaccine schedule set by vet.
First Months
First Months
First Months
They grow fast!
After a few months, the pup will understand the routine and housetraining is more consistent. Some pups may be trained earlier then others , typically around 5 months most pups are house trained or just having the odd accident.
The pup trusts the new home and you. The bond will increase and pup will look to you as their leader. Training & routine consistency is key.
Exercise needs to be moderated to your pups growing body. Average of 5 minutes per month for walks and lots of play times where they can start and stop on their own.
Puppy teeth will be falling out and adult teeth emerging. Your land shark is chewing everything as they are teething. This will pass.
Schedule your first groom
Vet recommended flea & tick control.