Tips For Raising A Puppy: Your Guide To New Puppy Parenting

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Before diving into your puppy parenting journey, it’s important to ensure you have the right setup to keep your new furry friend safe, comfortable and happy. Here are some of the key items you’ll need:

• Bedding: A cozy bed gives your puppy a comfortable place to rest and sleep. Choose a size that suits your puppy’s breed, either a full-sized bed that they can grow into, or a smaller one to start with that can be upgraded as they get bigger. Whichever option you choose, make sure the bed is soft, supportive and easy to clean for those inevitable puppy accidents.
• Food and water bowls: Make sure you have sturdy, easy-to-clean bowls to keep your pup hydrated and fed and place these in an area that is easily accessible for your puppy.
• Access to an outdoor area: Your puppy will need a safe, secure space for toilet breaks and exercise. This should be a place where other dogs do not go, such as a private garden, until you puppy has completed their course of vaccinations. Always supervise your puppy outdoors to keep them safe and support their toilet training routine.
• Puppy pads for training: Puppy pads are a useful tool for house training, helping your puppy learn where to go while making clean-ups easier when accidents happen. Place them in a consistent spot and reward your pup for using them to encourage good habits.
• Puppy food: You may opt to stick with the food that the breeder has been feeding your puppy but if you’re thinking of changing to a new one, select a food formulated specifically for puppies to support their growth, development, and overall health. Larger-breed puppies will benefit from diets specifically designed for their needs. If you’re unsure, consult your vet for personalised advice on the best diet for your puppy’s needs.
• Lead/harness/collar: Once your puppy has received all their essential vaccinations, they can safely explore the outdoors and will need a sturdy lead for walks. It’s also a legal requirement for dogs to wear identification in public, so ensure their collar includes an ID tag with your contact details. Consider an adjustable collar to accommodate your puppy’s growth and a comfortable, well-fitted harness and lead for safe and enjoyable walks.
• Treats: While not essential, treats can be an excellent motivator for training and reinforcing positive behaviour. Opt for shop-bought treats that are no larger than your puppy’s kibble, or small pieces of soft human food such as cooked chicken, cheese, or sausage. Remember to give treats in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Toys: Although not a must-have, toys can help prevent destructive chewing of household items and keep your pup entertained.

Once you’ve prepared for your puppy’s arrival, registering with a veterinary practice should be a top priority. While many pet owners choose the nearest practice for convenience, it’s worth researching to find one that best meets your needs. Look for a practice with experienced staff, comprehensive services, and a caring approach to support your puppy’s health. Whether you’re looking for independent vets or a practice that is part of a group, there are plenty of options across the UK that can cater to your puppy’s needs.

At Kin Vet, we have a growing number of practices across the UK and are here to help you give your new puppy the best start in life.

Keeping your puppy healthy involves regular check-ups and preventative care. Follow your vet’s vaccination schedule to protect your puppy from diseases. Regular flea and worm treatments are also essential and many vets offer this service as part of a monthly health plan. Microchipping is a legal requirement in the UK, so ensure your puppy is chipped and your contact information is updated. Additionally, consider pet insurance to cover unexpected veterinary costs and provide peace of mind. Good pet insurance for dogs can help to mitigate future veterinary expenses and, if you’re unsure which policy to choose, ask your vet for guidance on what to consider.

Socialisation and training are key to raising a well-behaved, confident puppy. Early exposure to different environments, people and other animals helps to build confidence and reduce the risk of behavioural issues later in life. Be sure to introduce your puppy to a variety of experiences, including friendly people, other vaccinated dogs and different environments like parks and busy streets. Handling your puppy gently, focusing on areas around their paws, ears and mouth, will also help prepare them for future grooming and vet visits.

Start training early with basic commands like ‘sit’, ‘stay’, and ‘come’. Using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, or playtime encourages learning. Consistency is crucial, so use the same commands and ensure everyone in your household follows the same rules. For house training, establish a regular schedule for feeding and toilet breaks, and take your puppy outside frequently to reinforce good habits. Consider enrolling your puppy in a training or socialisation class for additional support and structured learning.

A consistent daily routine helps your puppy to feel secure and adapt to their new home. Set regular feeding times with age-appropriate food, provide plenty of rest in a quiet, comfortable space, and offer playtime and exercise to stimulate their mind and body. Establishing routines early helps your puppy develop positive habits and makes the transition into family life easier

We hope this information is enough to get you started and we’re wishing you all the best on your journey with your new pup. If you have any questions regarding your puppy and their wellbeing, or you’d like to register them at one of our veterinary practices, get in touch with us here. 

References

https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/pdsa-animal-wellbeing-report/uk-pet-populations-of-dogs-cats-and-rabbits