Welcoming a new puppy into your family is an incredibly exciting time! But it can also be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time owning a puppy. The team from Greencross Vets have a few tips to help new puppy owners be great pet parents.
Give your puppy time to settle in
Leaving home can be scary, especially for puppies. For many, this might be their first time away from their littermates and old home. It’s important to give them time to adjust to their new home.
To help your puppy settle in:
- Provide them with a safe, calm space.
- Don’t force them to come out and explore or play.
- Take your time introducing them to your kids and other pets.
- Reward them with things they like (such as treats) when they show curiosity and confidence.
- Use pheromones like Adaptil or a calming toy to help them feel more comfortable.
Establish a routine
Puppies love routine and consistency. They need to know what to expect and when to expect it. Having a regular schedule for feeding, sleeping, playing, training, and toileting will help your puppy learn good habits and avoid confusion and frustration.
Remember to keep your puppy’s routine age-appropriate and realistic and adjust it as they grow and learn.
Protect your puppy from parasites and infectious diseases
Puppies are vulnerable to parasites and infectious diseases and rely on you to keep them safe. Prevention is always better than cure, that’s why you must take steps to keep your puppy safe.
Vaccines help protect your puppy from deadly diseases. Most puppies will have had at least one vaccine before they’re sent to their new home, but that doesn’t mean they’re protected! You need to be careful about where you take your puppy and who they’re exposed to before they’ve had their full course of puppy vaccines.
Parasites are more common than you might realise, so it’s important to stay up to date with your puppy’s parasite prevention. Ask the puppy’s breeder, rescue, or previous owner what parasite control they’ve had and when they’re due for their next dose. If you’re not sure or need extra guidance about what parasite control plan is best for your puppy, don’t hesitate to ask your local Petbarn team members or Greencross Vets for help.
Enrol in Petbarn Puppy School
One of the best things you can do for your puppy is to join Petbarn Puppy School. This is a fun and interactive way to teach your puppy the essential skills and behaviours they need to become a well-adjusted and happy dog.
Petbarn Puppy School is suitable for puppies aged 8 to 16 weeks who have had at least one vaccine and runs for five weeks. Don’t forget to book in ASAP! Spaces fill up fast.
Is your puppy too old for puppy school classes? Don’t stress! Petbarn’s trainers also host Beginner Classes for older dogs who could benefit from learning the basics or having a refresher on manners.
Remember to collect your free Puppy Care Bag!
This is a special gift from Petbarn to you and your new four-legged family member! The Petbarn Puppy Care Bag contains a range of useful and fun items for your puppy, such as food and treat samples, toys, vouchers, and a Puppy Care Guide full of expert advice.
To claim your free Petbarn Puppy Care Bag, just visit your local Petbarn and tell the friendly team members all about your new furry friend (or, better yet, bring your fluffy bundle of joy with you).
Follow these simple steps and you’ll be the best new puppy parent. Don’t forget that the team members at your local Greencross Vets clinic and Petbarn store are always happy to share expert advice as you navigate puppy parenthood.