8 Things You Must Know Before Getting Your Family A Puppy

Adding a dog to your family is a huge step.

Everyone will experience the joys of puppy kisses and snuggles, but you’ll also need to make a few changes to accommodate your new best friend.

These are a few things everyone must know before getting their family a puppy so everyone learns to live together with minimal bumps in the road.

1. You’ll Need to Puppy-Proof Everything

If you’ve never lived with a puppy, you’re in for a surprise. They explore the world with their mouth, finding ways to chew everything in sight. It’s vital to puppy-proof your house before your new dog arrives home.

Hide any electrical cords behind or under furniture. Move cleaning supplies behind cabinets and consider putting any rugs away until your dog finishes potty training.

You’ll also save yourself money by putting dirty laundry in hampers with lids or behind closed closet doors. Try looking at your home through the eyes of a curious puppy to get ahead of any destruction or emergency vet trips.

2. You’ll Get Less Sleep

Veterinary experts advise new dog parents that puppies can only hold their bladder for one hour multiplied by however many months old they are.

An eight-week-old puppy may be able to go two hours between potty breaks but they might have accidents in between.

That might seem fine until it’s time for bed. Ask for help to manage the first few months of late-night bathroom trips.

You’ll get two hours of sleep between breaks if your puppy isn’t actively exploring your house or making noise during those hours. A live-in partner can help you swap shifts or your older kids could help to practice taking responsibility.

3. You’ll Have to Take Pictures

When you’re sleep deprived and frustrated about potty accidents, it’s easy to forget to snap photos. Don’t miss any opportunities for a photo-op or a quick video. You’ll cherish the memories when your dog gets older.

Your family and friends will likely want to see pictures too, so keep them on hand to brag about accomplishments like your puppy jumping on your bed or responding to their name.

4. You’ll Drive to Mulitple Vet Appointments

Puppies and infants share one thing in common — they don’t have robust immune systems. You’ll need to schedule recurring vet appointments throughout your dog’s first year at home so they get life-saving vaccinations.

Canine distemper and hepatitis shots are some of the first they’ll get, along with a few essential rounds of parvovirus shots.

If you have any questions, call your vet. They can print a schedule and estimate fees, so nothing surprises you.

5. You’ll Avoid Other Dogs for a While

You might want to take your pup to the dog park so they can meet new friends, but that has to wait a while.

Puppies can’t be around most other dogs until they complete almost all their vaccinations, especially the parvovirus vaccine. They also can’t walk in public spaces like pet stores because they might contract diseases through bacteria carried in on other dogs’ paws.

The dog park will still be there when your puppy is the right age. In the meantime, they’ll love hanging out at home with you and anyone who wants to come over for a few puppy kisses.

Keeping your puppy isolated might mean they have to stay home alone sometimes.

When that happens, be aware that their separation anxiety might cause more destructive behavior, bathroom accidents and even vomiting. Crate training can help, but they’ll still feel alone and can display these behaviors inside their crate.

You can help them get used to being alone by leaving a TV on or playing calming music. It’s also best to start with short periods. Check the mailbox while your puppy is by themselves. Graduate to a quick trip to the grocery store or the gas station. You’ll deal with fewer destructive behaviors as they get used to hanging out alone.

6. You’ll Adjust Your Travel Plans Temporarily

Boarding facilities won’t accept puppies until they’re far enough in their vaccination schedule. This might mean waiting to board your dog until they’re six months old, unless your local boarding facility has a specialized wing for young pups.

When you can’t avoid traveling, bring your puppy to a rental property that allows young dogs. They’ll need essential canine vacationing supplies like familiar toys, a water bowl and enough food to last your trip.

You could also ask a family member or friend to house-sit if you can’t find a puppy-friendly rental. As long as they don’t bring any other dogs over, your pup will be in good hands until your travel emergency ends.

7. You’ll Maintain a Frequent Feeding Schedule

Multiple factors determine when your puppy will eat. You’ll choose a dog food brand and have to follow the feeding instructions on the packaging.

Your vet may also recommend feeding a certain number o times each day. Eight-week-old dogs eat three to four times daily to maintain their high metabolism during growth spurts. It’s something to consider as you reconstruct your daily schedule around your puppy’s needs.

8. You’ll Train Your Puppy Daily

Training treats are about to become the best thing in your home. They’ll motivate your dog to learn essential commands like sitting and responding to their name.

You’ll also need to reward your pup when they learn to shake, roll over and do other tricks as they age. Otherwise, they may not care to follow your lead when you’re teaching them basic obedience skills.