🐾🐶🐾New puppy checklist- The Ultimate guide to the new dog Pawrents

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No matter what breed of dog it is, a puppy needs love, patience, and attention to its own needs. Start by making sure they have a safe, comfortable place to sleep and toys to keep their minds active.

Proper nutrition is important for healthy growth, so choose a puppy food that is made for the size of their breed. For their health, they need to go to the vet regularly for checkups, vaccinations, and deworming.

Socialization is important if you want your puppy to be well-rounded and confident. Expose them to different people, animals, and situations to help them learn to adapt.

Consistent training based on positive reinforcement will help teach good manners and obedience. Lastly, make sure your puppy gets daily exercise and lots of love.

This will strengthen the bond between you and your dog friend and set you both up for a lifetime of happiness.

The Must-have New puppy checklist- The Ultimate Beginners Guide to new pet parents

Are you about to become a puppy paw-rent for the first time? Or someone you know is becoming a first-time Puppy parent?.

 Have you been anticipating the arrival of your new four-legged furry family member, and now it has arrived? Don’t forget to prepare your house for your new puppy’s impending arrival despite all the excitement and a bit of nervousness!

Here is a list of the top ten things you should do. Know as a new Pet Paw-rent as well as some advice on how to deal with them.

It’s an exciting time and You got your new Puppy yay! Your kid’s wish is taken care of and your kids got a new Pup to play with.

About your New Pup: Now, Your pup should be around 8-10 weeks old( Breeders are not allowed to give away puppies younger than 8 weeks), 1st Vaccination done at the breeders and Not  Yet Toilet Trained).

Now, You are wondering, How do I  care for the Puppy? what’s good for them and What’s not. What to feed them and Whatnot. How they react to certain situations and so on.

Here is the Ultimate Checklist that will help you take care of your Pup from week 8 weeks old( That is when you Bring your new Pup Home) to 12 Months Old.

What do I need for a New puppy?

As a first-time pet parent to a lovely Cavoodle, I was incredibly nervous, but I knew I had to be prepared. I created this ultimate new puppy checklist to help other new pet parents navigate this exciting journey.

Here’s what I found to be essential:

1. Crate or playpen: A safe space for your puppy to sleep and stay when you can’t supervise them.
2. Puppy food: A high-quality food formulated for their breed size and age.
3. Food and water bowls: Non-tip stainless steel or ceramic bowls are ideal.
4. Leash and collar or harness: For safe walks and identification tags.
5. Puppy training pads: To help with housebreaking and minimizing messes.
6. Poop bags and dispenser: For picking up after your puppy during walks.
7. Bed and blankets: A comfortable place for your pup to sleep.
8. Puppy Toys: A variety of chew toys, squeaky toys, and puzzle toys for mental stimulation and entertainment.
9. Treats: Small, soft treats for rewarding good behavior and training.
10. Grooming supplies: A brush, dog shampoo, nail clippers, and a toothbrush with dog-specific toothpaste.
11. Stain and odor remover: For cleaning up accidents during housebreaking.
12. Puppy-proofing supplies: Baby gates, cord protectors, and cabinet locks to keep your pup safe.
13. The veterinarian is your bestie: Establish a relationship with a local vet for regular checkups, vaccinations, and advice.

As a first-time pet parent, having these items on hand made a significant difference in my confidence and ability to care for my new puppy. Remember that patience, consistency, and love are key to building a strong bond and a happy life together with your furry companion.

1. Preparing Your Home for the New PUP Arrival

Puppy-proofing your home

Making sure your new puppy has a safe place to live is important for both their health and your peace of mind. To puppy-proof your home, you need to get rid of any dangerous items, secure any possible dangers, and give your furry friend his or her own space.

• Secure electrical cords and other potential dangers. Puppies are naturally curious and may chew on electrical cords, which can lead to electrocution or other injuries. To stop this from happening, you can tie the cords together with cable ties or hide them with cord covers. Also, make sure that your puppy can’t get to small things like children’s toys or loose change, which could cause it to choke.
• Remove toxic plants and chemicals. If a puppy eats some plants or household chemicals, it could be very sick or even die. Find out if the plants in your home and yard are safe for dogs, and get rid of or move any that aren’t. Keep cleaning supplies, medicines, and other chemicals that could hurt your puppy in locked cabinets or containers that he can’t get to.
• Make spaces in your home for your puppy to sleep, eat, and play. When you can’t keep an eye on your dog, a crate or playpen can keep them safe. Make sure their place to sleep is cozy, warm, and free of drafts. Place the food and water bowls in an easy-to-reach spot, preferably on a mat or tray that won’t slide around to prevent spills. Lastly, set up a play area with toys and puzzles to keep your dog busy and his mind working.

Essential supplies

Ensuring you have all the essential supplies before your new pup arrives will make their transition into your home smoother and more comfortable. Here’s a list of the basic items you’ll need:

Crate and bedding: A crate serves as a safe, cozy space for your puppy, helping with house training and providing a secure area for them to relax.

Choose a crate that is large enough for your pup to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not too big that they may use one end as a toilet. Include soft bedding, such as blankets or a crate pad, to make it comfortable and inviting. You can also cover the crate with a blanket or crate cover to create a den-like atmosphere.

Baby gates or playpen: Baby gates or a playpen can help confine your puppy to a specific area of your home, making supervision easier and preventing access to off-limits areas. This can be particularly useful during the house training process or when you’re unable to keep a close eye on your pup.

Food and water bowls: Choose sturdy, non-slip food and water bowls that are appropriately sized for your puppy. Stainless steel, ceramic, or heavy-duty plastic bowls are durable and easy to clean. Consider using a placemat or tray beneath the bowls to catch any spills and make cleanup easier.

Puppy food: Select a high-quality puppy food that is appropriate for your dog’s breed, size, and age. Look for products with balanced nutrition and consult with your veterinarian for recommendations. Remember to gradually transition your puppy onto their new food by mixing it with their old food over a period of 7-10 days to avoid gastrointestinal upset.

2. Feeding Schedule for your puppy

Feeding your new puppy is a critical aspect of their care, as proper nutrition supports healthy growth and development. The following are some essential guidelines and stats to ensure your furry friend gets the best start in life.

1. Puppy food: Choose a high-quality puppy food formulated for your dog’s breed size and age. Puppies need more protein, fat, and essential nutrients than adult dogs to support their rapid growth.
2. Feeding frequency: Feed your puppy three to four times a day, as smaller, more frequent meals help maintain their energy levels and prevent bloating. The following is a general guideline based on age:
   • 6-12 weeks old: 4 meals a day
   • 3-6 months old: 3 meals a day
   • 6-12 months old: 2 meals a day
3. Portion control: Follow the feeding recommendations on your puppy food packaging, as they provide a good starting point. Adjust as needed based on your pup’s age, weight, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
4. Monitoring weight: Regularly weigh your puppy and track their growth to ensure they’re developing properly. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive weight gain can lead to health problems.
5. Gradual transition: When changing food brands or transitioning from puppy to adult food, do so gradually over a week to prevent digestive upset. Mix the old and new food, increasing the proportion of new food each day.
6. Water: Fresh water should always be available to your puppy. Clean their water bowl daily to prevent bacterial growth.
7. Treats: Use treats sparingly for training and rewarding good behavior. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your puppy’s daily caloric intake.
8. Human food: Avoid giving your puppy table scraps or toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and Xylitol, as these can be harmful to their health.
9. Regular vet checkups: Ensure your puppy gets regular checkups to monitor their health and receive necessary vaccinations.

Feeding your new puppy appropriately sets the foundation for their long-term health and well-being. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your puppy’s diet or growth.

3. Veterinary Care and Vaccinations

Finding a trusted veterinarian:

Start by researching local veterinarians in your area, and asking for recommendations from friends, family, or local pet groups. Look for a veterinarian who is experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate.

Schedule an initial appointment soon after bringing your puppy home to establish a relationship with the vet, discuss any concerns, and create a plan for your puppy’s ongoing care.

Vaccinating your new puppy

Vaccination schedule for puppies:

Vaccinations are necessary to protect your puppy from a variety of diseases and infections. Puppies typically begin receiving vaccinations at six to eight weeks of age, with booster shots are given every three to four weeks until they are about 16-20 weeks old.

Among the most important vaccines are those for distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and rabies. Non-core vaccines, such as those for Bordetella or Lyme disease, may be advised based on your dog’s risk factors and lifestyle. Your veterinarian will give you a vaccination schedule that is specific to your puppy’s needs.

Here is a guide to the vaccination process for your new puppy:

1. Core vaccines: These are essential vaccines recommended for all puppies, regardless of location or lifestyle. Core vaccines typically include:
   • Distemper
   • Adenovirus-2 (hepatitis)
   • Parvovirus
   • Rabies
2. Non-core vaccines: These are optional vaccines based on your puppy’s risk factors, lifestyle, and the prevalence of certain diseases in your area. Some common non-core vaccines are:
   • Bordetella (kennel cough)
   • Leptospirosis
   • Lyme disease
   • Canine influenza
3. Vaccination schedule: Puppies receive a series of vaccinations starting around 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until they are 16-20 weeks old. The rabies vaccine is typically given at 12-16 weeks of age. Here’s a general timeline:
   • 6-8 weeks: First round of core vaccines (excluding rabies)
   • 10-12 weeks: Second round of core vaccines
   • 14-16 weeks: Final round of core vaccines, including rabies
4. Booster shots: After the initial puppy vaccinations, your dog will need booster shots for some vaccines. Your veterinarian will advise you on the appropriate schedule for these boosters, which can vary based on the specific vaccine and your dog’s individual needs.
5. Titers: As an alternative to automatic booster shots, some pet owners opt for titer tests to measure their dog’s immunity levels. This can help determine if a booster is necessary. Consult your veterinarian to discuss this option.
6. Local regulations: Familiarize yourself with local vaccination requirements, as some areas may have specific mandates, particularly regarding rabies.
7. Veterinary advice: Always consult with your veterinarian to develop a tailored vaccination plan for your puppy. They can recommend the most appropriate vaccines and schedule based on your dog’s age, breed, lifestyle, and the prevalence of diseases in your area.

Vaccinating your new puppy is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. It not only protects your pup but also helps maintain the overall health of the canine population.

Check-ups and prevention of parasites:

Schedule regular checkups with your vet. Adult dogs should go once a year, but puppies and older dogs should go more often. During these visits, your vet can check on your dog’s overall health, talk to you about any concerns, and give your dog any necessary vaccinations or booster shots.

Another important part of taking care of your puppy’s health is making sure it doesn’t get parasites. Puppies can get parasites inside and outside of their bodies, such as fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms. Your vet will give you advice on a prevention program that fits your puppy’s needs and your area. This could include taking medicines or getting treatments once a month to keep parasites away.

By building a relationship with a trusted vet and sticking to a schedule for vaccinations and checkups, you can help make sure your new puppy stays healthy and safe for the rest of its life.

4. Puppy Grooming schedule

Every puppy needs a good brush at home, irrespective of its length. Be careful about choosing the right brush type according to the coat and needs of your puppy.

Certain common brushing types include:

For most dogs, especially for short hair breeds or breeds that do a lot, a rubber brush (such as a zoom powdering) works like a magnet to remove loose fur.

A regular grooming schedule is essential for maintaining your puppy’s health and well-being. Grooming helps keep their coat clean, reduces shedding, and allows you to monitor their skin for any issues. The frequency of grooming depends on your puppy’s breed, coat type, and individual needs. Here’s a basic grooming schedule to follow:

1. Brushing: Brushing is crucial for all puppies, regardless of coat type.
   • Short-haired breeds: Brush once a week using a bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt.
   • Medium to long-haired breeds: Brush 2-3 times a week using a slicker brush, followed by a bristle brush or comb to remove tangles and prevent matting.
   • Heavy shedders or double-coated breeds: Brush more frequently, particularly during shedding season, using an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool.
2. Bathing: Bathe your puppy every 4-6 weeks or when they get dirty or starts to smell. Overbathing can strip their coat of natural oils and lead to dry skin. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo, and avoid getting water in their ears and eyes.
3. Nail trimming: Trim your puppy’s nails every 3-4 weeks or when you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a pair of dog nail clippers or a nail grinder, and be cautious not to cut the quick, the blood vessel inside the nail.
4. Ear cleaning: Check and clean your puppy’s ears every 2-4 weeks or as needed. Use a dog ear cleaning solution and cotton balls or gauze to gently wipe the outer ear. Never insert anything into the ear canal.
5. Teeth brushing: Start brushing your puppy’s teeth as soon as possible to prevent dental issues. Brush at least 2-3 times a week using a dog toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste. Avoid human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to dogs.
6. Eye care: Wipe any tear stains or debris from the corners of your puppy’s eyes using a damp cotton ball or pet-safe eye wipes.
7. Professional grooming: Depending on your dog’s breed and coat type, you may need to schedule professional grooming every 4-8 weeks for haircuts, coat trimming, or specialized grooming needs.
8. Regular inspections: During grooming sessions, inspect your puppy’s skin, paws, and ears for any signs of irritation, infection, or parasites.

Adapting this grooming schedule to your puppy’s specific needs will help maintain their overall health and hygiene while also providing an opportunity to bond with your furry companion.

5. Socializing your new Pup

Puppies develop quickly, so it’s critical to socialise with young pups when they’re most open to new experiences. 

Puppy socialisation often occurs between the ages of four and twelve weeks, as this is when puppies become aware of their environment and begin to become inquisitive.

It’s important to introduce your new puppy to other people and animals so that it grows up to be a well-adjusted, confident, and friendly dog. Socializing your puppy means letting them meet different people, animals, places, and situations. This helps them learn how to act and feel comfortable in different situations. Socialization is most important between the ages of 3 and 14 weeks, but it’s never too late to start. Here are some tips to help you get your new dog used to other people:

Classes for puppies: Sign your puppy up for a socialization class where he or she can meet other puppies and learn basic obedience from a professional trainer.

Introduce people: Let your puppy meet many different kinds of people, like children, adults, and older people. Encourage good behavior and give your dog a treat when it is calm.

Get to know more animals: In a controlled setting, introduce your puppy to other friendly, vaccinated dogs and animals. Always watch interactions between animals and make sure both are comfortable.

Changed environments: Gradually take your dog to different places, like parks, pet stores, and streets with lots of people. Start with short, positive experiences, and as your puppy gets used to them, add more time to them.

Rides in the car: To get your puppy used to riding in the car, take it on short trips.

Expose your puppy to new sounds and objects like the vacuum cleaner, the doorbell, and umbrellas and hats so that he or she doesn’t get scared or anxious around them.

Leash training: Teach your puppy to walk calmly on a leash by putting them in increasingly busy places.

Handling and grooming: Get your puppy used to having their paws, ears, and mouth touched and handled. This will make grooming and trips to the vet easier in the future.

Positive reinforcement: Always use positive reinforcement when introducing your puppy to new people. Reward your puppy for calm and good behavior with praise, treats, or play.

Socialization is an ongoing process that requires patience and consistency. Keep giving your puppy new experiences for the rest of its life, rewarding good behavior and dealing with any signs of fear or anxiety.

Remember that every puppy is different, and the way they learn to get along with other people and animals will depend on their breed and personality. Always be patient, and don’t give your dog too much too quickly. A well-socialized puppy will be more sure of itself, friendly, and flexible, which makes it a joy to have as a pet.

6. Enclosures and Bedding for Your New Puppy 

It’s important for your new puppy’s health, safety, and house training that you give them a safe place to sleep and comfortable bedding. Here are some options and things to think about when choosing a home and bedding for your puppy:

Crate: A crate is like a den for your puppy, where it can rest, sleep, and feel safe. Choose a crate that is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so big that they can use one end as a toilet. People often use wire crates, plastic crates, and soft-sided crates. Some crates have dividers that can help you change the size of the crate as your puppy grows.

Playpen: Another way to give your puppy a safe, enclosed space is with a playpen. Playpens usually have more space than crates, so your dog can move around and play while still being in one place. Playpens come in different sizes and styles and can be made of metal, plastic, or fabric.

Baby gates can be used to block off certain parts of your home or make a special area for your puppy. These gates can be changed as needed, are easy to set up, and can be moved. Choose a gate that is strong and tall enough to stop your puppy from jumping over it.

Bedding: Put soft, comfortable bedding in your puppy’s crate, playpen, or other place where they sleep. You can choose from fleece blankets, crate pads, or beds with cushions made just for dogs. Make sure the bedding can be washed in a machine and is the right size for your dog.

Heating pads and warmers: It’s important for young puppies, especially during the colder months, to keep their body heat up. Use a heating pad or warmer that is safe for pets to keep your dog warm and cozy. Always follow the safety instructions from the manufacturer and keep cords out of reach of your puppy.

By giving your new puppy a safe place to stay and comfortable bedding, you’ll create a safe environment that will help with their health, safety, and house training.

Puppy Playpens

A puppy playpen, which is a moveable inclosure, is a very versatile little buy. It can be used to do the following tasks: Introducing the puppy to other pets by keeping them apart until they are comfortable with one another.

When you are unable to keep an eye on your puppy, you must confine your pup.

• Keeping your puppy away from busy streets
• Paper education for the pup
• Keeping her outside for the time being

7. Pet Insurance

Is Insurance for your new Pup  Worth It?

Absolutely…Consider whether to enrol your new furry family member in pet insurance. 

It may be a great experience to bring a new puppy or kitten into the family. 

The pitter-patter of little pads is a trip filled with love and mirth. Before the kitten or puppy arrives at their residence, many pet owners are extremely well-prepared with collars, leashes, beds, bowls, and an abundance of toys. What about pet insurance, though?

When it comes to pet insurance, there are several crucial considerations. 

One of the most significant is pre-existing conditions. These are ailments that insurance companies do not often cover.

For instance, if your cat was treated and diagnosed with a skin disease at the veterinary clinic before you purchased pet insurance, skin disorders would be deemed “pre-existing” and you would not be able to file a claim for anything skin-related for the duration of your policy.

Enrolling in pet insurance as a puppy or kitten may avoid the development of pre-existing conditions.

On their first significant visit to the veterinarian, the expense of veterinary care can be rather surprising for many first-time pet owners. 

Possible pet owners should have a thorough grasp of how much their pet may cost in the event of a common disease, accident, or illness in order to determine whether pet insurance would be financially beneficial in these instances.

Also Read: What Does Dog Insurance Cost? Nifty tips to get a good deal with Pet Insurance

8. Puppy Toys

Playing with and exercising your new puppy is very important for their health, development, and overall happiness. Engaging toys can help your dog use up its energy, keep it from getting bored, and bring you closer together. Here are some types of toys that help kids stay active:

Toys that get Pups moving:

Chew toys: Puppies naturally like to chew, and giving them safe, long-lasting chew toys can help ease the pain of teething and satisfy their natural needs. Choose toys for your dog that are made of rubber, nylon, or rope, and make sure they are the right size. Kong toys, Nylabones, and rope toys are all popular types of chew toys.

Tug toys: You and your puppy can play together with tug toys, which can help you get to know each other better and burn off some of their excess energy. Look for tug toys made of strong materials like rope, rubber, or heavy-duty fabric. Watch your dog when he plays with a tug toy to make sure he doesn’t hurt himself, and teach him to drop the toy on command to teach him good manners.

Fetch toys: Fetch toys make your puppy run after them, chase them, and bring them back to you. This gives your puppy a lot of physical exercise and mental stimulation. For fetch, you can use balls, frisbees, and other soft, light toys. When picking out fetch toys for your dog, make sure they are made of non-toxic materials and are the right size for his mouth.

Make sure to watch your puppy play at all times, especially when you give them new toys, to keep them safe. Change up your dog’s toys often to keep him interested and keep him from getting bored.

Exercise and playtime are important for your puppy’s physical and mental health. They help create a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted companion.

Recommended Chew Toys for Puppies

Chewy Toys for dogsDog Rope Toy– Dog ropes are made of 100% natural washable cotton, which is non-toxic and has no smell, safe for you pet chewing and playing. Our cotton threads are thin but tough and durable. The dog rope is not intended to be indestructible if your dog is an extremely aggressive chewer. Only play under supervision. Luxury Dog Chewy Toys– Super Luxury Dog Toys:

Also, Check our checklist  Blog – we have tried to compile The Most Comprehensive List Of Items That Every Dog Owner Should Have On Hand.

Recommended Treats for Puppies:

Milk-Bone Treats: A Natural Omega-3 Fatty Acid That Contributes To The Development Of The Brain And Nervous SystemCalcium And Vitamin D Help Support Strong Teeth And Bones Specially Fortified With 21 Vitamins And Minerals For Puppies 1 Year And Younger. Sanandco Puppy Treat BoxNulo Freestyle Style TreatsSmart Cookie Treat: SOFT & CHEWY BITES: Reward your picky puppy with these tasty treats made with mouth-watering rabbit, duck, trout or wild boar;Our low-calorie mini morsels are a perfect training treat, anytime treat, or food topper – and they won’t ruin your dog’s diet

9. Bathing your new pup

Bathing your new puppy is important for keeping them clean and healthy in general. When bathing your dog, always use products made just for dogs. Products made for humans may be too harsh for their skin. Here is a list of items that will make bathing your dog easier and more fun for both of you:

Shampoo for dogs: Choose a shampoo made for dogs that is gentle and made for your puppy’s coat type and skin condition. If your puppy has sensitive skin, look for shampoos that are hypoallergenic or made with oatmeal.

Conditioner for dogs: For long-haired breeds, a conditioner made just for dogs can help keep your puppy’s coat soft and free of tangles.

Shampoo that doesn’t need water can be useful for quick clean-ups or when you don’t have time for a bath. Just spray or put it on your dog’s fur, and then wipe it off or brush it out.

Detangling spray: A detangling spray can help get knots and tangles out of your puppy’s hair, making it easier to brush.

Brush or mitt for bathing: A soft bathing brush or rubber grooming mitt can help spread shampoo and conditioner evenly while massaging the hair gently.

Non-slip mat: Put a non-slip mat in the tub or sink so your dog doesn’t slip and fall when it’s bath time.

Towels: Make sure you have a few soft, absorbent towels on hand to dry your dog off after a bath. Microfiber towels are especially good at quickly soaking up water.

Hairdryer (optional): If your dog doesn’t mind, you can speed up the drying process by using a hairdryer on the lowest heat setting. Make sure you don’t overheat your puppy or burn its skin.

Gather grooming tools like a brush, comb, or slicker brush before giving your dog a bath to get rid of loose hair and tangles.

To clean your puppy’s ears after a bath, get some dog ear cleaning solution, cotton balls, or gauze ready.

Cotton balls: During the bath, place cotton balls gently in your puppy’s ears to keep water from getting into the ear canal.

When you bathe your new dog, always use products made just for dogs that are gentle and stress-free. With time and consistency, your puppy will get used to the process and enjoy bath time, which is good for both of you.

List of the best and trusted Dog shampoos, Conditioners and dry shampoos that can be purchased from Amazon. I use most of these products for my Pooch.

Recommended Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

• Pro pet Shampoo+ Conditioner
• Paws and Pet Shampoo and Conditioner
• Natural shed control shampoo

Recommended Dog Dry Shampoo & Body Wash

• Lavender Body wash
• Shampoo/Body wash  for dry skin and ITchy skin
• Begley’s Natural No Rinse Waterless Pet  Dry Shampoo
• New Waterless Dog Shampoo All Natural Dry Shampoo for Dogs

10. Toilet Training a new pup

Toilet training a new puppy is an important part of being a responsible pet owner because it keeps your home and your puppy’s home clean and healthy. For toilet training to go well, you need to be patient, stay consistent, and give praise. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Set up a routine. Routine is good for puppies. Set regular feeding times and take them out to use the bathroom right when they wake up from naps, after meals, and before bedtime.

Choose a place outside for them to go potty. This will be their designated potty area. Always bring your dog to this spot to make it comfortable and familiar.

Use cue words. When you take your puppy to the potty area, use a consistent cue word like “go potty” or “hurry up.” Over time, your dog will learn to link this cue to going to the bathroom.

Praise and reward: As soon as your puppy goes to the bathroom in the right place, praise them and give them a small treat. This positive feedback will show them that they did the right thing.

Keep a close eye on your dog when it’s inside and keep it in a small area. If you see them sniffing or walking around, take them to their bathroom right away. When you can’t watch your pet, you might want to use a crate or playpen to keep accidents from happening.

Crate training: Dogs are less likely to soil their sleeping area if they have been trained to use the crate. Make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down.

Clean up accidents. If your puppy has an accident inside, clean it up right away with an enzyme-based cleaner to get rid of any lingering smells that might make them want to go to the bathroom there again.

Don’t punish your puppy. If you punish your puppy for having accidents, it will become afraid and confused. Instead, give them lots of praise and keep bringing them back to their designated potty area.

Be patient. It takes time and patience to learn how to use the toilet. Most puppies start to have better control of their bladders between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks, but it can take several months to fully train them to use the toilet.

Consult your vet: If your puppy keeps having accidents even though you’ve been training him or her, talk to your vet to see if there are any underlying health problems that could be causing the problem.

By following these steps and being patient and consistent, you’ll make it easier for your new puppy to learn how to use the toilet.

11. General Training for your new Pup

General training is important for your new puppy to learn good manners, basic obedience, and to become a well-behaved, friendly friend. As soon as you bring your puppy home, you should start training him or her. Be consistent and use positive reinforcement. Here are some guidelines for general training:

Basic commands: Teach your puppy basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” “down,” “leave it,” and “off.” Start with one command at a time and move on as your puppy gets better at each one.

Positive reinforcement means to praise, treat, or play with your puppy when it does something you want it to do. Positive reinforcement shows your dog that it did something right, which makes it more likely that it will do it again.

Keep training sessions short (5–10 minutes) and often (2–3 times a day) to keep your puppy interested and paying attention.

Socialization means letting your puppy meet different people, animals, places, and situations so it can feel comfortable and confident in different situations. Fear, anxiety, and violence can be avoided by getting to know people early on.

Crate training: Crate training can help you train your dog to use the bathroom outside, give your dog a safe place to sleep, and teach them to be calm when they are confined. Make sure the crate is the right size and that it is a happy, comfortable place for the dog.

Train your puppy to walk calmly on a leash without pulling, lunging, or jumping. Start in a quiet place, and then as they get better, add distractions and move to busier places.

The “no bite” rule says that you should teach your puppy not to bite or nip by giving them appropriate chew toys or telling them “ouch” or “no” when they try to bite.

Consistency: Being consistent is very important when training your dog. Make sure that everyone in the family follows the same rules and gives the same commands.

Patience: It takes time to train a puppy, and each one learns at a different rate. Be patient and remember that even slow progress is progress.

Consider putting your puppy in a class taught by a professional dog trainer that teaches basic obedience. This can help guide and support you while you’re training your dog and give your dog a chance to meet other dogs.

By following these general training rules, you’ll give your new puppy the best chance of doing well as it grows. Focus on positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency if you want your puppy to grow up to be a happy, well-mannered pet.

12. Parasite preventatives for your new Puppy

Make sure the 4 main parasites are covered in your puppy, especially if they are going to go outside:

1. Ticks and Fleas
2. Ear Mites
3. Hookworm and whipworm  
4. Tapeworm and roundworm

Protecting your new puppy from parasites is essential for maintaining their overall health and well-being. Parasites such as fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms can cause various health issues and discomfort for your pup. Here are some common parasite preventatives to consider:

1. Flea prevention: Flea preventatives come in various forms, including topical treatments, oral medications, and flea collars. They help prevent infestations, protect against flea-related diseases, and minimize the risk of flea allergies.
2. Tick prevention: Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Many flea preventatives also protect against ticks, but additional tick-specific products are available, including tick collars and topical treatments.
3. Heartworm prevention: Heartworm disease is a potentially fatal condition transmitted by mosquitoes. Monthly heartworm preventatives are available in oral, topical, or injectable forms. Your veterinarian will recommend the best option for your puppy.
4. Intestinal worm prevention: Puppies can be susceptible to various intestinal worms, including roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. Regular deworming treatments, often administered in combination with heartworm preventatives, are essential for protecting your pup’s health.
5. Ear mite prevention: Ear mites are common parasites that can cause discomfort and infection. Regular ear cleaning and parasite preventatives can help minimize the risk of ear mite infestations.
6. Regular check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for monitoring your puppy’s overall health, including parasite prevention. Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate parasite preventatives based on your pup’s age, breed, lifestyle, and the prevalence of parasites in your area.
7. Environmental control: Maintain a clean environment by regularly washing your puppy’s bedding, vacuuming, and keeping your yard clean and free of debris.
8. Preventative care: Keep your puppy up to date on vaccinations, as some vaccines can help protect against diseases transmitted by parasites.
9. Tick checks: After spending time outdoors, check your puppy thoroughly for ticks, especially in warm, wooded, or grassy areas.

Remember to consult with your veterinarian to develop a tailored parasite prevention plan for your new puppy, as they can recommend the most appropriate products and schedule based on your dog’s individual needs. By taking proactive measures to protect your pup from parasites, you’ll help ensure their long-term health and happiness.

How to Prevent Parasites in New Pups:

Few Initial and Regular (Yearly) veterinary visits:

Preventive care and regular poop exams are helpful to catch the infestation in its early stages.

• Use some Ear Cleaning pads for your pup’s regular ear clean-up.
• Use Chewable Monthly  tablets as well for Fleas, Tick and worms 
  Keep your pet on flea/tick/ and heart-worm prevention year-round: 
• Clean up after your pup: Pick up your dog’s poop promptly to reduce the risk of environmental contamination. Protect hands while cleaning up the feces and wash hands afterwards.

Ask your veterinarian which parasites are a problem in your area.  

There are parts of the country where certain internal parasites are less of a concern and others where year-round prevention is imperative. 

Your veterinarian will be able to tell you what to watch for according to your geographic location, how these parasites can be transmitted to your pet and prescribe the most appropriate preventive products.

Also, Read…

• Exploring the Best of Big Poodle Mixes: Traits, Temperaments, and More
• Pointer Poodle Mix: Discover the Unique Blend of Intelligence & Energy
• Complete Guide to the Morkie Poo: Maltese-Poodle-Yorkie Mix Traits & Care
• Hypoallergenic poodle mixes- 7 cute & adorable No smell – No shed poodle Hybrids
• 7 Best Poodle Mixes for First-time Owners

About Content Reviewer & Vet Expert OnBoard:  Dr. Sara J at Hampton Vet Clinic. Dr. Sarah is passionate about pets and loves sharing her knowledge and research with you. At Pet Paws Hub, we strive to be the ultimate resource for learning everything about Owning & caring for your pet!