A Puppy For Christmas
Written by Kathy Molek and Jill Paige
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
Oh, you got a puppy for Christmas? It’s soft and sweet and looks so cute when it sleeps. And it what? Oh, it pees on the carpet and poops just about anywhere! It chewed on your slippers and took your underwear? And it cries a lot?
Well, take a deep breath and hold on. We have some tips that might help you with this cute bundle of fur.
1. Please take you puppy to a vet and get a wellness check within 48 hours of bringing it home. If the breeder didn’t worm it, have it wormed and get all the shots that are needed now and in the coming months. You should have been given instructions on vaccinating but if not, then discuss this with your vet.
2. Take some time to puppy proof your house. Put the electrical cords up where puppy can’t chew on them and anything else you don’t want destroyed. Make sure there are lots of toys he can chew on and call his own.
3. For house training purposes, buy a crate and get one that will suit his size when he is fully grown. This is where he will stay when you can’t have your eyes on him or you need to leave the house or if he just needs a break from people. This is his bed, his den, and he won’t want to mess in it. Any time he wakes up from a nap or eats or drinks, take him directly outside to do his business and make sure you give him plenty of time. Praise, praise, praise when your puppy completes the task outside. Keep your puppy on a good eating schedule and limit his water before bedtime. This will help him to sleep through the night without the urge to potty.
4. Your vet can give you advice on how much to feed your pup and how often. Do not follow the guidelines on the dog food bag!. Stick to the schedule and remember, as his size grows you will increase the amount of food, but usually by not very much.
5. Next, your puppy needs socialization and puppy training so he can have good manners and be happily accepted by others in your family and the community. The MCDTC offers classes in the spring and fall so please watch our calendar or talk with This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , about upcoming classes. It’s important to get your name on her list so she can call you when classes are ready to start.
6. Good hygiene is so important. Brush your dog at least once a week, check his teeth, paws, nails and ears. If he smells, give him a bath with puppy shampoo (not people shampoo) and get him good and dry. Then give him a nice brush out. Learn how to clip his nails. If you can’t do this at home, there are lots of groomers in the area that can do just nails or can do the bath and all and you’ll be good to go. About every 8 to 10 weeks is good for keeping your dog in good shape, especially if it is a breed that needs regular haircuts as well.
7. Give your pup lots of love and play time. He’ll be happier for it and so will you. Remember, you are his guardian and he is your responsibility. If you feel that you can not keep up with any of the things we have outlined, then please wait to get that puppy or consider another pet that requires less attention.
Feel free to contact the Mifflin County Dog Training Club with any questions about raising a puppy or if you are looking for a good breeder.
