When you think of bringing home a new puppy, your mind might be filled with excitement and anticipation. There will be many things to do to prepare for the new addition to the family. You will have so much research and planning to do.
However, you will still need to make sure that your home is ready for this little friend. When bringing home a new puppy, it is important that you are fully prepared beforehand. This means that your house must have everything that the puppy needs in order to grow and flourish into a happy adult pet. To help you get started on the right foot, here’s a list of key items you should have when bringing home a new puppy.
A Secure Crate or Place for the Puppy to Call Its Own
A crate is a great thing for owners of Bernedoodle puppies, or any other breed of puppies, to have. When you bring your puppy home, immediately put him or her in the crate as a way of introducing it to the new puppy’s way of life. The puppy needs to know this is their personal space that is safe and secure.
The crate will also come in handy if you have to travel with your new puppy and need to keep it contained in one area of the car. Whenever you have the puppy in the crate, make sure it is comfortable. You can put a comfy blanket inside or put a chew toy in there so that it can chew on it while it is in the crate. Keep the crate a comfortable and welcoming place for your puppy.
New Puppy-Proofing Supplies
Make sure to have plenty of new supplies that are puppy-proof. Be sure to replace any items in your house that are broken or that might pose a danger to your new puppy. You don’t want to wait for your puppy to chew or destroy something important before deciding that it needs to be replaced. Here are some supplies that you should have on hand for puppy-proofing your house:
- First, you’re going to want to buy a new broom. Your old broom might not be sturdy enough for cleaning up after a puppy. It can even pose a choking hazard for your pup if the bristles fall out. Instead, buy a sturdy new broom that will last you through many messes to come.
- Next, you will want to buy a new vacuum cleaner. The old one might not have enough suction power to get up sand or pebbles that your puppy might track in. It can also be too heavy and not good for cleaning up after your puppy. If you have a small vacuum cleaner, make sure it is child-proof to protect your puppy from it.
Beds & Blankets and Other Comforting Items
Your puppy will need a few soothing and comforting items, such as a bed and a few soft blankets to snuggle up in. This can help it feel more at home in its new surroundings. Be sure to have a soft-spined bottle or teether toy for your puppy to chew on when it feels like it needs to chew. This can also help your puppy to settle down and relax when it feels stressed.
A Healthy Supply of Food and Water Bowls
Your new puppy will need to eat well in order to grow strong and healthy. Make sure to buy a healthy supply of puppy food and puppy water bowls. If you plan on taking your new puppy out in public, you may also want to buy a special travel water bowl for use in the car. Using a communal bowl at a dog park is never a good idea, especially for a very young or very old pup.
Short Nylon Training Leashes
You will need to buy a new set of puppy training supplies, such as a new set of short nylon training leashes. You will also need a few dog training books or online puppy training videos. Make sure to keep these out of reach of your puppy until you are ready to begin training it.
Potty Training Pads (and a good vacuum)
You will also need a good vacuum cleaner to clean up all of the puppy’s messes. Be sure to buy a good supply of puppy training pads, as you will need them. These are like giant reusable toilet paper squares that you can lay down in one spot of your house to catch any messes from your puppy. They can be thrown out and replaced with a new pad whenever they get soiled.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what items you need to have when bringing home a new puppy, you can feel more prepared for the big day. Remember that puppies need lots of love and attention. Take the time to get to know your new friend and to make it feel loved and comfortable in its new home. As long as you have all of the essentials, you will be able to provide a safe and comfortable environment for your new puppy. Puppies are a lot of work, but they are also a lot of fun.
