So, you’re about to embark on one of the most memorable journeys of your life – bringing home your furry bundle of joy for the first time. Excitement bubbles in your chest as you anticipate the wagging tail, wet nose, and boundless love your new puppy will bring into your life. But before you hop into the car, let’s go through what you need to do on this momentous day.
Transporting Your Puppy Home:
The breeder usually provides a towel or blanket with the mother’s scent and some food the puppy has been weaned on. Also, ensure you have the necessary paperwork and that your puppy has had its first jab. It’s a good idea to have someone with you to comfort the puppy during the ride home. Place the puppy on their lap with the towel across, providing a sense of security during the journey.
Remember to pack:
- A few towels in case of accidents.
- Puppy collar and leash for when you arrive home or if you need to make a potty stop on route.
- A small bowl and water bottle for your puppy’s hydration needs.
If the drive is long (over 2 hours), plan stops carefully, opting for green areas away from other dogs or areas that dogs may visit to minimize the risk of infection. Keep in mind that puppies need to potty frequently, so be prepared for occasional messes, even if it means a little inconvenience. Please avoid the grass areas outside parking at service stations. You can however find a small grass area near the petrol stations which usually wont have had dogs on.
Arriving Home:
As soon as you arrive home, take your puppy straight to the garden to potty. Once that’s taken care of, you can start introducing them to their new surroundings. Remember, your puppy may be a bit scared at first, so keep the initial interactions calm and gentle. Encourage exploration but avoid overwhelming them.
Keep play and attention centered around the crate to create positive associations. Consider covering the crate with a sheet or towel to create a cozy den-like environment. Start crate training by leaving the door open and enticing your puppy inside with treats. Feed meals inside the crate and gradually introduce closing the door, rewarding your puppy for calm behavior.
Crate and House Training:
Some breeders may have already started crate training, which gives you a head start. Here are some tips to continue the process:
- Use positive reinforcement and never force your puppy into the crate.
- Feed meals inside the crate to create positive associations.
- Gradually introduce closing the door, rewarding your puppy for calm behavior.
- Settle your puppy in the crate at night, using a long lead attached to the crate to discourage night-time whining by making a clanging sound. Do not say anything as we want to create a superstitious behaviour here.
- Set alarms to take your puppy outside for potty breaks throughout the night, gradually increasing the intervals as they grow older.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a loving and supportive environment for your new furry family member. Remember, patience and consistency are key as you navigate this exciting journey together.
Need help with training or behaviour modification? Don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here for all your canine coaching needs. Contact me anytime! 🐾