If you’re considering getting a pet, you may be looking up breeds as you read this. Dogs come in various shapes and sizes, along with a wide range of temperaments, appetites, attitudes, and cuteness.
You need to consider what type of four-legged companion you want to welcome into your family. If you are looking for a lively yet obedient hypoallergenic breed, a miniature schnauzer might be the right choice for you.
If you aren’t too active and you fancy a more chilled existence, a Great Dane could be ideal. It doesn’t matter what breed you end up going for; your puppy will challenge you, make you laugh, and have you fretting. But they are a joy! Look at how you can make it through puppyhood.
Essentials
Puppies often find themselves in various situations. They may find their way into a kitchen cupboard to devour a loaf of bread. Or they might get a stone stuck in their nose after burrowing in the garden. Or they might have licked something questionable during their walk, which could result in an upset stomach.
As such, you need to ensure that you have decent pet insurance. This ensures that your canine will receive any necessary treatment at the vet.
Every puppy will need a vet visit at some point; hopefully, it won’t even be for anything too serious. However, it’s crucial to have insurance and coverage in case the worst occurs.
Take Some Time Off
When you first get a puppy, you will soon realise they are similar to newborn babies. They need feeding, watching at all times, and playing with, and they will need help to settle into their new surroundings. Remember, your little pup will have left their siblings and mom to be thrown into a new environment. They need you to be their constant.
Consider taking a couple of weeks off work, as your new pooch will likely want to stay close to you. To make them feel safe, play with them, walk them after their shots, and stay with them. Begin to crate train and help them to see their crate as their den. Having this safe space will help them to settle more quickly.
Training
Begin training your puppy as soon as possible. You can go for as many walks as you want and play for as long as you want indoors, but physical exercise is no substitute for mental puzzles.
Training your mutt to lie down for five minutes exerts your dog to the same extent as them walking for half an hour.
Hide treats; play; find the toy; and develop a bond with your four-legged friend. Training allows obedience to develop. When you give your pup positive praise, they will be eager to receive it again. Your dog will truly become your closest friend and unwavering companion. Yes, they will nip initially, but once the teething is over, you will enjoy a strong relationship with your dog.
Puppyhood is a challenging time for even the most experienced of dog owners. Follow this guide, and you will nurture a friendly, kind, and loyal dog.
