Kids, adults, resident pets, and the home itself are all affected greatly by the introduction of a new puppy. Preparing and executing the first days a new puppy is home can mean the difference between a comfortably obedient pup and a nervous, distant puppy to deal with for years to come. Though it sounds like more than a little pressure, getting through the first days doesn’t have to be completely in the dark. A little knowledge goes a long way in terms of the puppy’s comfort and the family’s bonding experience.
Potty Spot
Whether your new pup will live indoors or out, the first thing to do when you bring him or her home is to introduce it to its potty spot. This is usually a spot outdoors that you will use for going potty the first few days to the first few weeks of the pup’s residence at your home. Spend a few minutes there and take care to try and be as light-hearted as possible so as not to pressure the new little one. If it goes, treat it and praise it warmly. If not, don’t worry about it – for some pups it takes much more time than that first visit.
Introductions
Once the pup is inside the house, briefly introduce it to the family members that will commonly be living there, keeping it brief. Then introduce the pup to its crate or cage that it will live in until housebroken. Make sure there is just enough room to lie down in, a chew toy safe for puppies, food/water and bedding in it. Don’t allow the pup to play with or eat the bedding – remove it if it’s a problem. This shouldn’t be a punishment area, just an introduction to its temporary new home inside a home.
Bonding
Though the pup will spend most of its time in the crate or cage the first few weeks, alienating it because of that is not a good idea. Spend time each day bonding with the new puppy by petting and praising it as you take it to potty or in the crate it stays in. Dogs in general are extremely social animals, and puppies specifically need lots of love and attention. By making sure to bond with it you ensure it isn’t too lonely in its crate and that future bonding will build upon the initial efforts, once it is house broken and out of its temporary confinements.
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