Ready to Adopt a Puppy?

Adopting a puppy is such a rewarding and fulfilling experience! A dog will forever be loyal and love you (and your family) unconditionally. Here are a few tips and things to expect when adding to your family.

Supplies: Be sure that you have these things before you bring your new friend home.
You are going to need food, bowls (for food and water), a leash, collar, and some sort of bedding (unless you're going to let them sleep in your bed). Generally old towels and baby blankets work best for bedding, but you can go to a pet store and pick up a pet bed for a fair price. It's up to you!
If you've already picked a name out for your dog, get a doggy ID tag for their collar. You can get them at Petsmart and Walmart for a small price in a machine that makes them, or you can ask your vet for one.
If there are areas of your home you do not want your puppy in, you should also get a few baby gates. Until you can teach your puppy which rooms to avoid, these will work perfectly.

Bringing your puppy home:
Make sure that you are patient and calm with your puppy as he investigates his new home. Show him where his water and food will be and show him where he will sleep. Let him check out everything, don't force him. Keep an eye on him while he's inside and be sure to take him outside frequently to "do his business". Make sure that you praise him when he goes. Watch him, until he gets the routine down he may have a couple "accidents". You just have to remember that is a baby and he's learning and you must be patient. If he does have an accident say "NO!" sternly and take him outside immediately. Praise, not punishment, if the most effective method of training. You don't want your dog to be scared of you, you want him to love you and protect you.

The waiting game:
It will take a week or so for you and your puppy to get adjusted to each other. Be patient with him and remember that all puppies chew. Try not to leave tempting things around your home - children's toys, shoes, things of that nature. Provide your puppy with lots of his own toys and "chewies" (bones) to keep him occupied if you are going to be away and not able to keep him in sight. If you catch him chewing on something he shouldn't be, tell him "no!" and take it away and give him one of his own toys. Before long his will start to realize what he can and cannot play with or chew on.
Your puppy is smart, and he will learn all of your rules just make sure to be patient and be consistent! Don't allow him to do something one time, if you are not going to let him do it another time! This will only confuse him.

An adult dog:
If you don't want to deal with the pressures of teaching a puppy, an adult dog is your solution. Most places will be able to tell you the mannerisms of your dog, just remember that you do not know their past and they too might not be housebroken or trained. When you adopt a dog, they tend to be the most lovable and "thankful" pet you could ever ask for, because they are glad that someone has opened their heart to them! Be selective and make sure you feel 100% confident in your selection because if you choose to give him up later, it will only add to the dogs stress and turmoil.

Be excited with your new edition! Be patient. Be loving. Most of all, enjoy!