Bringing a New Puppy into the House

So you've bought a new puppy? Congratulations! You have many years of pleasure to look forward to because, when treated properly, dogs really are man's best friends.

For those who have never owned a dog before, having a puppy in the house can be a somewhat daunting experience. What should you feed him? How can you teach him to be clean? When should you take him to the vet? What kind of training will he need? So many questions that need answering in order to give our dog the best possible start in life.

Diet

With more than a third of pets in the UK suffering obesity, it's important that special puppy food is given as this contains the nutrition he needs in order to grow into a strong, healthy, active dog. Puppies need more protein, calcium and phosphorus than adult dogs but as it's possible to give too much as a supplement, it's always recommended that a complete puppy food is offered as this will contain the correct balance to keep him healthy.

Apart from containing everything your pup needs, dry foods have the advantage of being hygienic, easy to feed and are available in bulk for convenience and economy. Dry foods also help maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Toilet Training

Young pups aren't able to control their bladders properly so it's important you don't chastise him for having 'accidents' as this will only lead to anxiety, which again will lead to more accidents.

Puppies almost always need to relieve themselves following a meal, when they wake up from a nap and after play. Take him to his designated 'clean' spot, give him a command to relieve himself (this can be something like "do your business" or "be clean" and wait until he's emptied his bowels or bladder, after which you should immediately reward him and tell him he's a good dog.

As you get to know him you'll learn to read his body language and will know when he needs to go out. You may only have a few seconds in which to react so it's important you stay alert to his needs.

If you catch your pup weeing indoors, say 'NO' in a strict voice that will startle him. This will make him tense his muscles and stop mid-stream. Pick him up and take him straight to his clean spot. Remember, NEVER scold your pup for accidents, simply clean up after him and remind yourself that you need to be more aware.

Never use disinfectant to clean accidents as, to a dog, this smells very similar to urine and will tell them this is the right place to go. Use either a biological soap powder or special cleaners available from pet stores that are designed to break down the chemicals in urine.

If you need to leave your pup alone, special 'wee pads' are available. These are plastic lined pads that are treated with a substance that will attract the pup when nature calls. 'Wee pads' can also be used as an aid to toilet training by gradually moving them closer to the door until the pup understands that the garden is the place to relieve himself.

The First Vet Visit

As soon as you bring your new pup home, you should arrange for an initial consultation with your vet who will give your pup a thorough health check and explain the procedure regarding vaccinations.

Provided your pup's mother was vaccinated, he will be immune to several infectious and often fatal diseases during the first weeks of his life but by six weeks, the pup should have started on a course of initial vaccinations. If your pup is from a reputable breeder then he will no doubt have been given his first jab and you will be given his vaccination card. If not, then your vet will need to start the course immediately.

Never ignore the need for vaccinations as you'll not only be putting your own dog at risk but also the lives of other dogs; if all dog owners ensure that their pets are vaccinated then these diseases will be unable to spread.

Basic Training

A properly trained dog is a pleasure to be out and about with but a dog that's received little or no training can cause problems. Being able to recall your dog at any time is an absolute necessity and basic commands such as sit and stay make life for both the dog and owner much easier.

If you're uncertain of your ability to teach your pup basic obedience training then it's worth looking into puppy training classes. These are a good idea because not only do you learn how to be a good dog owner, your pup also has the benefit of socialising with others youngsters. Your vet will be able to point you in the direction of a good trainer.

All the remains now is to wish you luck with your new four-legged friend. Here's to many years of shared memories together.

Written by PetClub UK Your one-stop shop for pet care advice and products.

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