However, that dog snoring on the hearth doesn't happen over night. Introducing a puppy into a home is a big adjustment, especially if the family is new to dogs. Although a 6-month old puppy may look like an adult dog, it's NOT! It's very important to understand that dogs don't begin to lose their puppy status until they are TWO years old! It is unrealistic to expect that older pup to behave like his three year old sire. Thankfully, knowledge is power and knowing what to expect from your new friend can help ease the learning-curve (and hopefully preserve the furniture and carpet).
In an effort to help those who are anticipating a new canine addition, we are going to begin a series of posts that will explain expectations and preparation for this new adventure. Items such as potty-training, feeding, sleeping, chewing, place, and training will all be addressed in separate posts.
Before your puppy comes home, you need to have your home prepped and ready for your new pooch.
YARD: Your dog needs to be safe in your home and on your property. Make sure the area you have for your dog is fenced adequately. Your curious creature will discover things that you didn't even know you had! A few things to be aware of are poisonous plants, propane tanks and lines, the garbage containers, and other items that could present a hazard to your dog.
HOUSE: If you intend to have your dog inside at all, then this area needs to be adequately prepared as well. Minimize things on the floor (baskets, decorations, food storage, etc.). Have a family meeting to discuss the importance of everybody doing their part. This is a great motivation for family members to put things where they belong-- shoes, socks, toys, books, and so forth. Dogs WILL eat socks and pass them through to the other side. However, a sock tangled up in the intestine would amount to a very sick dog and a sizable vet bill!
Stay tuned for more about When Puppy Comes Home coming soon.
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