Is there anything more exciting than bringing home a new puppy? At happipup we certainly don’t think so but there is so much conflicting information out there which can be confusing and overwhelming. This is why we offer a pre puppy planning session to help you when preparing for a new puppy so that we can help you set your puppy up for success from the very beginning. Here are just a few of our top tips.
To crate or not to crate
This really depends on you and your puppy. Crates can be a great way of keeping your pup safe and giving them their own space but there are pups (mine included) that just don’t suit them. If you are buying a crate, make sure that it is not too big for your puppy who should have enough room to be able to stand up, lay down and turn around. You can buy clip on water bowls, a crate cover (or just use a blanket) and a bed to fit.
Puppy pens
These are great as a safe place to keep your pup when you are unable to supervise them and can also be used to divide the room if necessary.
Baby gates
These are great for managing where your pup has access to and to get them used to not following you everywhere. They are perfect for preventing access to the stairs.
Food and water bowls
Plastic bowls can be harder to keep clean than stainless steel bowls. A stainless-steel bowl with a non- slip bottom is ideal.
Grooming
A brush which has soft rubber bristles is ideal as a start for your puppy. These are much gentler than brushes with metal bristles. Buy a good quality puppy shampoo which is gentle on your pup’s skin.
A bed
Puppies need plenty of sleep so a comfortable bed is important. Soft puppy beds are great for some pups but for others they can turn into a chew toy. If you find that this is the case with your puppy, think about buying a raised bed (HiK9 have a great selection).
Collar and lead
A brush which has soft rubber bristles is ideal as a start for your puppy. These are much gentler than brushes with metal bristles. Buy a good quality puppy shampoo which is gentle on your pup’s skin.
