The decision to get a puppy is not something to be taken lightly. An adorable puppy can, and does tug at your heart, but, in the end will require significant investment of your time and money for years. Socializing and training a new puppy is time consuming and can be frustrating. In the US, millions of dogs are euthanized because inexperienced owners don't understand the importance of training and socialization for the first year of that puppies life.
That being said, the benefits of growing up with a dog has many rewards. Studies have shown that children with pets have higher self-esteem, improved social skills, and are more popular with their peers. They learn nurturing skills, as well as showing improved empathy and have a more caring attitude. There is also evidence that shows that pet ownership may help non-verbal communication.
Pet ownership also has a beneficial effect on family harmony. Research shows families spend a lot more time interacting after the acquisition of a pet. Pets provide a focus for fun activities and friendly conversation. The relaxation and relief from stress provided by animal companionship also yields measurable health benefits for parents. Pet owners have a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, fewer minor illnesses and complaints, and visit the doctor less often than their ‘petless’ counterparts.
Owning a dog can be a delightful family experience. Children learn to interact with and take responsibility for the health and well-being of the dog. However, while the ownership of a dog may have enormous benefits for the child, parents need to teach children how to behave around dogs so they can have a safe and enjoyable relationship.
Ok, you have now decided that a puppy is the right pet for you and your family, and you are now prepared to bring your new puppy home, but are you really prepared? We have compiled the following articles and links to prepare you for your new puppy:
BEFORE YOU BRING YOUR NEW PUPPY HOME
1. You need to puppy proof you home: http://www.cyberpet.com/dogs/articles/lexi/pupproof.htm
2. Puppies love to chew electrical cords, and this can result in serious injury or even death. We suggest you run all electrical cords through PVC Piping before bringing your new puppy home.
3. To prevent your inquisitive puppy from getting behind your furniture, under coffee and end tables, or area's of a room you deem off limits, purchase the plastic carpet runners, cut to size and lay down with pointy side up.
4. Check for poisonous plants and household chemicals:
5. Supplies needed before bringing your puppy home: http://www.cyberpet.com/dogs/articles/lexi/pupprep.htm
Pet First Aid Kit
6. Purchase a Quality food and supplements. Go to our "Feeding for Health" page for further information on quality foods and supplements.
FEEDING YOUR NEW PUPPY
1. How much food should you give per feeding? We suggest as much food as your puppy can consume within a 20 minute period.
2. How to avoid creating a picky eater.
a) Feed 3 times a day, avoid free feeding.
b) When you first bring puppy home its not unusual for the puppy not to eat for the first day. Do not give treats or hand feed your puppy its kibble to encourage it to eat. Your new puppy will eat when it starts to feel more comfortable in its new surroundings.
c) Do not mix table scraps or treats in its meal.
d) Minimize giving treats or healthy human table scraps (carrots, green beans, apples etc) unless during training sessions or After your puppy has finished its meal.
e) If the puppy does not finish its food within 20 minutes, pick it up and do not offer any food until its next mealtime. No treats to be given in between meals.
f) Avoid switching foods too often. This human habit tends to create picky eaters.
HOUSEBREAKING
Housebreaking can be as easy or as difficult as you make it. The number one rule is never leave your puppy unattended and always be consistent.
Crate Training is a great tool in helping to prevent soiling in the house or to help prevent destruction of your home while teething. It also provides your puppy with safe secure area when it needs its rest. Crates are NOT TO BE USED FOR PUNISHMENT!!! And the crate is only to be used for short periods of time or is to be used for bedtime. IF you work, and you are going to be gone for more than 3 hrs at a given time, it is best that you provide your puppy with a large room or a secure area in your yard with adequate protection.
Puppy Biting is normal behavior for all puppies!
Puppies need to have their ears cleaned at least once a week, but, you must be gentle. The following article explains the importance proper early ear care.
Some breeds require some form of support to ensure that their ears "set properly".
STOOL EATING (Coprophagy)
Submissive urination is common among dogs under the age of 2 yrs, approximately 1 out of 10 dogs are affected:
