Having a new puppy is wonderful, but it is not as simple as just get the dog and some food. Do prepare for a puppy well, you’ve lots of things to do beforehand and within the first few months of getting your little furry bundle of joy – or not so little in the case of some of the bigger breeds. 😊
Here is my checklist of things to action when you get a puppy, mostly before the event:
1. Think carefully first.
Puppies are cute, but that is a 12-16 year or so commitment. It’s a huge commitment and one you should be fully prepared to fulfil. Big dogs are even more of a commitment as they need more space, more exercise and more food = more cost often.
2. Research breeds and traits of different breeds.
I know I spent almost a year fully in research before I got my last pup. You want to ensure you know what that little puppy will grow into. What its needs will be and whether that will suit your lifestyle, home situation and even, yes finances. See if DNA testing is relevant to that breed and what you should be on the look-out when viewing puppies.
3. Do some learning.
If you're new to a puppy, or a bit rusty, do some learning; book, articles etc. Being refreshed on all things puppies, dogs and especially training is a great idea.
4. Think about the timing.
If you’re super busy with work and cannot get any time off, then now might not be wise. Even thinking about getting a puppy leading into winter, might not be perfect; will you and your little one want to venture out in the cold of a July night for a toilet session?
5. Puppy proof your home and yard.
See my article on How to Puppy Proof Your Home where I cover everything inside and out; it’s surprising just how unsafe a home can be. In that article, I didn’t mention stairs, so if you have stairs (especially those not carpeted) perhaps get a kiddy gate to avoid any falls.
6. Get set up.
Every puppy is going to need some basic items – including:
- food and water bowls
- bed
- lead, collar, harness, seat belt clip
- blankets or a coat if it’s winter time
- toys, toys and more toys
- grooming items – nail clippers, brush, comb
- puppy shampoo
- fencing within the home to limit areas your pup can access
- If you’re going to crate train your dog, then now is the time to find one. The challenge with a large dog is they grow so quickly so plan for that growth.
Don’t worry too much about quality products for puppies. Especially big dogs, they grow so quickly and that little stage barely lasts. One week they are wearing cat collars, then a ‘big dog’ collar and then suddenly, even that’s too small. Save yourself for quality products after they are 6 months or so and the majority of growth has occurred.
7. Have lots of things to keep them occupied.
I mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth another mention. Again, not suggesting the fanciest, or most expensive, but have lots of things to keep them occupied. Even once Caesar was starting to get older and wasn’t interested in toys, I kept a basket handy with left over toys and when Theo came to visit, I pulled out the basket and had lots of interesting things in there. A puppy is going to get bored, need to chew (especially when teething) and if they don’t have a supply of interesting and varied items, then you’ll find your dining table legs might be resorted to, or perhaps your favourite shoes.
8. Find a vet.
If you don’t have a vet already, then now is the time to find one. Vaccinations will come up quite quickly once you get your pup, so ideally be prepared and know where you’re going to go. On this note, pop your vet’s details into your phone AND also the closest animal or 24-hour vet service. It’s a life-saver (literally) to be prepared if something happens – you have a number (and address) already on hand; so no Googling and ringing around during a crisis.
9. Do mat trainings early.
I do mat training with my dogs, so having a mat ready is great. I like to begin training my dogs from the moment they get home. Plus, I’ve found having a mat near the kitchen (but not in it) is great as you can encourage your pup/dog to sit on their mat and not be underfoot, where you can trip, or spill something hot on them. Safety first for you both. Dogs love to be near us, so within eye sight and close is great, without being literally under foot.
10. When/where you'll do puppy training.
Speaking of training, you might want to work out when/where you’ll do puppy training. If it’s been awhile (or never) since you did puppy class, it’s a great idea to refresh yourself. Even if you’ve had a puppy recently, then dog obedience classes are great for both of you; giving your pup socialising opportunities as well as learning to be a well-behaved dog. If there are any bad habits, best to work them out early than allow them to become ingrained as a problem.
11. Grooming.
If your dog requires grooming, then I’d get hunting sooner, rather than later as groomers are somewhat in demand and some avoid larger breeds, for a multitude of reasons. You might have to hunt for awhile to find someone who will take you on and is suitable for your needs.
12. Extra items for your dog.
If you’re like me and have some special activities you like to do, then your pup/dog might need some extra items. I love to camp, so a camp bed, camp bag (with all their bits and pieces in it) is something you can begin thinking about. You don’t have to buy now, but if you know what you need, perhaps keep an eye out for specials as they come up.
13. Dog food/diet.
I would wait just a while before getting this. You will want to initially use what the breeder fed the puppies so that you don’t dramatically change their diet. A good practice is to gradually swap over products or food, adding a little more of the new and less of the old for a week or so.
14. Plan your time and your schedule.
When you’ve got a dog (and especially a puppy) you need extra time for them. Training, toileting, bonding … all takes time – but not a chore, a pleasure. Give it a bit of planning and thought.
15. Dog sitters.
You may also want to investigate dog sitters for the times you simply have to go away; a wedding interstate, work trip etc. Ideally a friend/family member is great, but you might need to find someone external. With anyone (other than my sons) I provide a ‘Care for Caesar’ sheet – which has info they might need; commands my dog knows to begin eating, habits around sleep or walking and importantly emergency contacts and my vet’s details. My motto is always be prepared and you’ll be fine.
I hope these few items give you a great start to your new relationship with your next best friend. Dogs are a joy and with careful thought, even the challenges around having a new pup can be alleviated with planning and preparation and make the experience wonderful.