Should You Think Twice About That Christmas Puppy?

Thinking about getting a puppy for Christmas?

First, make sure you are ready for a 10-20 year commitment and can afford the money that it takes to raise a happy and secure dog. If all that is worked out, then you want to do your research to make sure you pick out the right breed for your family. What does that mean? Your activity level, the amount of grooming this breed will require and the amount of food it will take to feed him, etc.

Then the last thing is choosing where to get your puppy. You should first check with your local shelters to see if there is a puppy there that will fit well into your family. If not, then find a reputable breeder. Here's more info on “how to find a reputable breeder”.

Please remember, puppies are for their life. Please consider all aspects of getting a puppy before taking on such a large commitment. If you have decided to get a puppy for Christmas here is a short list of what they will need!

The Super Seven Puppy Needs:

Training

Puppies need training using Positive Reinforcement. Training at a young age starts the puppies off on the right paw. When they know what to do and you can communicate to them in a way they understand, everyone is happy. Remember, Positive Reinforcement is the only training needed for puppies or any dog.

Crates

A crate can become a safe and comfortable place for many pups. They help with potty training, as well as giving the puppy their own place they can go to any time of the day when they feel afraid, tired, or just needs a break. For traveling and emergencies, like a shelter or a vet overnight stay in the future, your pup will be familiar with a crate environment and therefore will feel more comfortable. There are some dogs who experience confinement anxiety and should not be forced to stay in a crate if they find it scary. Please consult with a professional trainer if your puppy appears anxious about the crate.

Socialization

Socialization is very important for little puppies. Their world is wide open and they will embrace all types of noise and things, people, and other dogs if you help them learn that these things are fun and safe during this very critical stage. The more they are introduced to, in a safe and positive way, before 4 months of age, the happier, more secure, and more confident the puppies will feel throughout their lives.

Healthy food

Puppies need really good healthy food for a great start. I always tell my clients, if you can get it at a grocery store or a big-box chain, it is most likely not the highest quality of food. Make sure you are giving your puppy a good, balanced diet that includes real meat as one of the first two ingredients. Getting started on high-quality food is very important for their growing bones, developing digestive system, and providing a healthy coat. Cleaning the water and food bowls daily with soap and water and keeping your food in a sealed container keeps your food fresh and bug-free.

Wellness visits and body handling

Vet visits and handling the puppy are very important. Giving your puppy medical attention and wellness visits will ensure healthy growth. Handling your puppy while they are young will help keep them calm while visiting their vet and they may even learn to enjoy their vet visits. Touch their paws, open their mouths, look into their ears and massage them all over while making it a fun game with treats and praise. Everything you can do at this age won’t be a big surprise when it is needed at the vet.

Exercise

Mental and physical exercise are both very important for puppies. Puzzle toys, chew toys, treat balls, and a daily walk for physical exercise, promote a healthy brain and healthy bone growth. Playing games like "Find it" and hide-&-seek with your puppy provide mental and physical exercise as well as strengthens the bond between the two of you.

Love, patience, & kindness

You're bringing a brand new little life into your home who doesn't speak the language or understand the rules. Be patient and kind while she's learning what you would like her to do and you will live a long happy life together.