Congrats! You're bringing your puppy home for the first time.
Like every puppy parent, you're excited about having a furry friend you'll spend quality time with.
But the first few days are very crucial.
Your puppy will leave his familiar littermates, parents, and environment to transition into your home.
If you don't know what to do, this move can be stressful for your puppy and overwhelming for you. Here are tips to help you and your puppy have a smooth transition period.
Before Bringing Your Puppy Home
Buy supplies
Stock up on necessities so your puppy can settle in quickly. Some of the items you'll need include:
Crate/bed
Food and water bowls
Puppy food
Collar, harness, tag, and leash
Car restraint (If you'll often travel with your puppy)
Toys
Dog gates
Stain and odor removal
Make your home puppy-proof
Like a toddler, your puppy will want to explore the new environment. So you want to get harmful stuff out of the way. While you may think your home is safe enough, look carefully to be sure.
Make sure cables and electronics that your puppy can chew on and cause potential electrical burns are out of reach.
Cleaning materials and medicine should also be locked away. Also, set up a gated space, like a playpen, for your puppy to play, sleep, and feed to prevent him from getting into areas they shouldn't be going.
Find a trainer and vet
Training your puppy teaches him how to be obedient and communicate with you.
So you want to make sure you find a good training teacher or class. Finding a vet also ensures his vaccinations are up to date.
After Your Puppy Arrives
Introduce him to the family
Introduce family members to your puppy, preferably one at a time, so he doesn't get overwhelmed.
Then allow your puppy to get familiar with designated areas of your home. If you have other pets, you want to do an introduction, so they don't become aggressive towards themselves.
Begin training and build a routine
Training your puppy as soon as possible encourages good manners.
Start with socialization and house training, such as where they'll sleep, time for feeding, playtime, potty breaks and potty spots, etc.
Do these activities at the same time and place every day so he understands there's a schedule.
Build a strong connection with your puppy
Spending time with your puppy, and taking him out on activities and to events will build a bond with your puppy and he will learn you are the leader.
Also enforce rules positively and rewarding him will make him adapt quickly. Let your pet know that you love him by showing him lots of affection.
Doing this will help him settle in quickly and create a bond with you and the rest of the family for life.
These tips will ensure you and your puppy have a very smooth adjustment period. If you haven't selected a pup yet, choose one of our champion-pedigreed AKC Great Danes puppies before they find other homes!