Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and happy occasion! It is also a time for adjustment and learning, as your puppy settles into his new home and as you become acquainted with each other. Preparing beforehand and following a few “getting acquainted” guidelines can promote a smooth transition and help your puppy settle in with his new family. Here are a few tips for making those first weeks pleasant for you and your new puppy:

Preparing Beforehand

Once you have made the decision to bring a new puppy into your home, planning for his arrival can be a lot of fun! First, select a time that is relatively quiet and uneventful to bring your puppy home. This allows the puppy to adapt to his new family when there is a minimum of excitement and during a time when normal household routines are maintained. (Although it may be tempting to adopt during holiday seasons, for many families this is not a good time to obtain a new dog because normal daily routines are disrupted, company is arriving and family members may be traveling). All dogs have a few basic but important needs. These include a suitable collar and lead, a safe and protected place to rest (crates work best with puppies), food and water bowls, grooming equipment, and interesting and fun toys to play with. Suggestions are provided throughout this guide to help you select the best products for your individual puppy.

Collar and lead: Your puppy’s collar (or harness) should be well-fitted - snug but not too tight. Using a leash or retractable lead during walks will keep him safe and still allow him some freedom to explore.
Food and water bowl: Select bowls that have a wide base, are easy to clean, and are an appropriate size for your puppy.
Puppy food: Choose a high quality, nutritionally complete and balanced puppy food that is formulated specifically for your puppy’s age and breed size.
Grooming equipment: Purchase a brush or comb and dog shampoo that is designed for the type of hair your puppy has.
Crate and bed: Most puppies adapt well to a crate for sleeping and as a place to stay safe when not supervised. Select a properly-sized crate and choose bedding materials that are comfortable, durable and washable.
Chew toys and play toys: Provide a variety of durable toys that are designed for puppy teeth and energy levels.

Did You Know?

We Are a Society of Dog Lovers

Currently, 40 percent of households in the United States include at least one dog, totaling more than 61 million canine companions. Our dogs are also very important to us. According to a survey conducted by the American Animal Hospital Association, 94 percent of owners said that they consider their pet to have human-like personality traits, 93 percent stated that they would risk their own life for their pet, and HALF said they would choose their dog as their single companion if stranded on a deserted island!