Introducing a puppy into the family home is a massive deal. Of course, a pet can do wonders for your family. Many people find that having a pet helps them to bond with the people around them. As we all know, kids adore pets, and so they will love having a brand new dog. Before you rush out to buy a puppy, you need to know the basics. Here are some tips you need to know.
Choose the right breed for you
Choosing the right breed for you and your family is crucial. Not every breed is the same, and you should know that. If you buy a puppy from a pet store you will find that they have a broad range of breeds available. The best breeds for families tend to be obedient dogs. Ensure that you ask loads of questions about the puppy you buy. You need a dog with excellent genetics so that you know it will behave.
Make a cozy area for your pet
When you first bring your puppy home, you need to create a comfortable area where it can relax. Remember, you are bringing this young animal into a brand new environment. It is scary for your puppy. He or she needs space in which to hide away and get comfortable. You can use blankets and cushions to create an area for your puppy. Corners tend to work well because they offer comfort and protection for your dog.
Handle your puppy with care
Many animals are nervous around new people. Why wouldn’t they be? Your kids likely want to pick up and stroke your puppy all the time. For them, the pet is a massive novelty, and so they won’t want to leave it alone. You have to make sure that your children don’t bother the puppy too much. If they do, they could end up making the dog more nervous than it already is.
Comfort it when it cries
Your puppy will cry a lot in the first few weeks of you having it. Remember, it has just left its mom, and so it likely misses her a great deal. When you hear your puppy crying, you need to comfort it. When your puppy gets sympathy from you, it will start to learn that you are its new caregiver. Instead of crying for its mom, it will begin to look to you for affection.
Give it small meals often
Puppies have tiny stomachs, and so they can’t eat a lot at a time. The problem with dogs is that they will keep eating regardless of whether they feel full or not. If your puppy eats too much in one sitting, it will become sick. That is the last thing that you want. Make sure that you give your dog small meals at regular intervals throughout the day. You can get special puppy nutritional food so that your pet gets everything it needs from its meals.
Get a vet as soon as possible
It is vital that you register your puppy with a vet as quickly as possible. Many people leave this chore until they need to do it. Your puppy will need minor treatments, such as worming tablets, from the moment you get it. If you don’t have a registered vet, you will pay a small fortune for these treatments. You should also ensure that you buy a pet insurance policy for your puppy. If your dog got sick, its medical bills could be enormous. You should find a policy that covers sickness and accidents for your pet.
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