Post by Kim Reid on Feb 5, 2015 15:46:13 GMT
Is there a puppy in your future? If there is a puppy coming soon, set the stage before your puppys arrival. That way you are setting him, and yourself, up for sucess. Put into place puppy management measures so your dog can not get into trouble. It is so much easier to manage and set your puppy up for sucess , than to try to un-do behaviors and train properly. Get a crate. This is your puppys cave, his special place where he is safe and not able to get into things. The crate should be just large enough for him to comfortably stand, turn around and lie down. Some crates have dividers that can be adjusted for growth. Otherwise plan on getting a series of increasingly larger crates. Exercise pen, basically a playpen for dogs. This gives your puppy more room than a crate but still keeps him safely confined and out of trouble. Supervision; plan on lots of time with your puppy to reinforce desirable behaviors. Do not allow a puppy to do anything you would not like him to do as a grown dog. Chewing slippers and shoes is not cute and is a hard behavior to un-do. Think of it this way- you have a toddler running around your house without a diaper on! Puppy proof your house- Going back to the toddler, he may not stick his fingers in a light socket but he will get into everything within his reach. Think about electrical cords, shoes, clothes, eyeglasses, books and newspapers, furniture. House Rules- Get the whole family together and set the rules. Consistancy is VERY important. Is the dog allowed on the furniture? Is the dog allowed to sleep on the bed? Work these decisions out before the puppy comes home. Pet Professionals- You will need to select a veternarian, groomer, pet sitter and training professional. Choose these professional carefully. Make sure they share your philosophies of dog care and handling. Socialization- 3 weeks to 14 weeks is the prime socialization period. introduce him to as many objects, noises, people and things as you possibly can. Let him approach them as his own pace. Provide love and support and keep him safe!!