You can’t wait
You can’t wait! You remember the chocolate-brown eyes peering at you when visited the breeder’s for the first time. How can you forget those tiny paws and the energetic wagging of the tail? You’ve fallen in love with that special one who has already melted your heart. It’s only a few weeks before you take your new and very cute puppy home. But how ready are you?
There are some essential items you need to consider purchasing before your new addition arrives. You may want to invest in a small bed straightaway but this isn’t necessary to begin with. Instead a cardboard box and towels will do the trick.The box can be padded out with old newspapers. There will be lots of ‘accidents’ from new puppy so at least newspapers can be thrown away. Be aware that urine does stain the carpet and grass – buy lots of disinfectant.
Purchase a water bowl and feeding bowl. When your puppy arrives you will probably have to show him or her where the bowls are.
After three to six weeks dogs can be taken for regular walks. You might want to invest in a roman harness, which straps round the animal. In fact most veterinarians now recommend a harnesses, instead of collars, for smaller dogs.
Think also about investing in a dog ramp. By introducing a dog ramp at an early stage it will encourage your dog to realise that they can’t be lifted into your car when being taken out. A dog ramp can be a godsend when the dog gets bigger. It can help avoid muddy paws and save your back.
It will take new puppies a while to settle in and they will pine for their mothers. Make sure you have an old fashioned ticking alarm clock, a hot water bottle and a towel. The idea is that this will help simulate the dog’s mother.
Dogs, like babies, love toys to play with. They need rubbery toys to chew on from the start, which will help with oral hygiene. You may also want to consider buying a crate and your vet or pet supplies can advise on the size of the crate. It needs to be large enough for the pet to stand up and turn around when full size.
By getting ready beforehand with essentials such as leads, bowls and a dog ramp, you can help make your new puppy settle in quickly.