Preparing for Your Puppy

Puppy proofing your home.

Curious puppies can get into everything and they will if you do not puppy proof your home. Sometimes the best way to identify hazards is to get on your hands and knees and look at the environment through your puppy’s point of view. The following checklist can also serve as a guide to identify and eliminate hazards in your home:

Inside

Electrical Cords. Put out of sight or use cord concealers.
Human Food. Many foods that we eat regularly like onions, grapes, candy and nuts, just to name a few, are poisonous to dogs. It’s best to feed puppy kibble exclusively.
Cleaning Supplies. Keep stored in locked cabinets and do not let your puppy near while you are using harsh chemicals for cleaning or laundry.
Medications. Avoid keeping these on your bedside table. Store out of sight.
Keep the toilet lid closed.
Doors and windows should remain closed at all times unless you are closely supervising your puppy.
Small Items. Coins, paper clips, rubber bands, socks, and other items are choking hazards.

Outdoors

It’s best to have your backyard fenced. This allows your puppy to explore and play safely.
Many common plants like rhododendrons and azaleas are toxic to pets. Check online to identify any plants in your yard that may be hazardous.
Puppies have been known to fall into pools so please protect yours with a fenced enclosure. There are trainers who can teach pool safety to your dog.
Fertilizers and lawn chemicals should be in locked storage. Carefully read labels before applying to areas where your puppy plays.
Provide shade and fresh water at all times.
Scoop the poop every day.

Supplies

It’s easy and fun to purchase an abundance of supplies for your new puppy. The following are those we consider essential:

The basics.

Food. We will send home a three-day supply of Fromms Gold puppy food.
Food and water dishes, preferably metal.
Collar, leash (included) and ID tag.
Crate for sleeping and crate training. Make sure it has a metal divider to limit space at first.
Soft pad to fit into the crate.
Baby gate and/or exercise pen.

Treats.
Try a few different types of training treats to see which your puppy prefers. Our dogs love freeze dried liver treats.

Grooming tools.
Steel grooming comb (included), slicker brush, mat comb, nail clippers, puppy shampoo, ear wash and ear drying powder.

Lots of toys.
We suggest a combination of chew toys, fetch or tug toys, stuffed toys and thinking toys. Two toys will be included in your puppy’s take home bag.

And finally…

Clean up supplies including puppy waste bags for use when out and about.
Chew deterrent spray.