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When your puppy comes home you want to be able to
relax, knowing that everything is ready for him. You will also want to
make your pup’s transition from the breeder’s home to yours as
comfortable as possible for him. That means having all the supplies your
pup will need on hand and puppy proofing your home.
What supplies will your pup need?
Leash and collar with tag. There are many to choose from. A soft collar
with a buckle is a good idea, along with a nylon leash that is easily
cleaned. You should have identification for your pup right away.
Temporary collars are available from pet supply stores if you are
waiting for permanent tags to be ready.
Crate and bed. Most pups are happy sleeping in their crates because it
provides a comfortable den for them. The crate will also come in handy
as you start your pup’s training. The crate should be placed in an area
where the pup is not isolated from the rest of his new family. A couple
of old towels work well as your pup’s bed or you can buy a bed for him,
as long as you keep in mind it will be chewed.
Toys. It’s easy to go overboard when buying toys for a new puppy,
however it’s not necessary. In fact too many toys may confuse the pup,
causing him to think that everything – including the slippers you left
out – are his toys. It’s often a better idea to buy a few toys that will
keep your new pup occupied and stimulated, and teach him which toys are
his.
Grooming supplies. A comb, brush, shampoo formulated especially for
puppies and nail trimmers are enough to get you started. Your vet or
breeder can help you decide what is best for your pup.
Food and water bowls. Bowls that are bottom heavy and as wide on the
bottom as they are on top don’t spill as easily as others. Unbreakable
bowls are best. Plastic bowls aren’t a good idea because they may be
chewed.
Food. Your pup will need good quality food designed specifically for the
growing pup, such as PEDIGREE® Healthy Start. If your pup has been
eating a different puppy food you should also have a supply of that. It
can upset your pup’s stomach if his food is changed suddenly, so this
should be done slowly over the course of a few weeks.
Puppy proofing
Although your puppy’s access in your home should be limited to a few
rooms at first, it is still important to be safe rather than sorry, and
that means puppy proofing your whole home.
Breakables. Move breakable objects safely out of your pup’s reach.
Puppies are curious, and their tails can do a lot of damage to vases or
other breakables.
Cords. Telephone cords, electrical cords, curtain cords – all of these
should be tucked away so that your new pup isn’t tempted to chew on them
or tug at them.
Books and magazines. Move these from side tables and coffee tables to
places higher up, out of the reach of puppy teeth.
Cleaning products. Go through your home and make sure that all cleaning
products, many of which are hazardous to your pup, are safely in
cupboards with latching doors.
Medicine and grooming supplies. Prescriptions, hair spray, nail polish
remover and many other medicinal products and grooming supplies pose
dangers to your pup. Storing them out of your pup’s reach is best.
Houseplants and flowers. Many of these, for
example, poinsettia, are toxic to pups and should be moved to an area
where your puppy can’t get at them.
Car maintenance products. All of these, especially
antifreeze, which is a real danger to curious pups, should be out of
reach.
Gardening products. Insecticides, sprays and
anything else that could pose a danger should be stored safely behind a
latched door.
A good way to approach puppy proofing your home is
to think about what you would move if you were baby proofing your home,
and do the same. Not only does this protect your puppy, but it protects
your valuables, too. Puppy proofing your home prior to your pup arriving
means that when he gets there you can relax and spend time with him – a
perfect way to start your new life together!
© 2008 Mars,
Incorporated and its Affiliates. All Rights Reserved.
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