subject: Getting A Puppy? [print this page] When you have finally selected your family dog, they tend to start off as puppies. This is a huge responsibility as they need your time and affection. We will cover a few things in this article so you know what to do. Don't forget dog beds, either.
The first thing to think about is that when you are getting a puppy, they are going to need a lot of your time and affection. You are going to need to train them. Do not make the same mistake many have before you and get a puppy when people are rarely home. They end up living in crates and having some serious energy issues when you do come home. There are training classes for those that have some issues controlling your puppies or those that just need some extra help.
Training is something that needs to get started on pretty much immediately. They learn through positive reinforcement as well as repetitiveness. Positive reinforcement could be treats and new squeak toys. Something that makes them really happy is really imperative. Even though it can be a bit of a task, there are options out there for those that need the extra help like training.
This must be an immediate start. Their goals are pretty basic. They want to make their people happy and they want to have a good life. Puppies can get a bit frustrating sometimes, but if you keep your cool and remain calm and diligent, things will work out for the both of you.
Train your puppy with a crate. This is the best approach as they are den animals and they do need their own space. Not only that, but they will be taught where to go and have more respect for living space. You cannot just leave them in there all of the time, but it is important to have a crate throughout their puppyhood. Hopefully, once you are successful you can have them roam free. It is unfortunate they don't just come trained, but it is what it is.
You are going to need to make sure that the crate you buy is big enough for the puppy to turn around in, but not big enough for it to decide a specific space is perfect for them to go to the bathroom on. This also helps with when it comes to potty training. Housebreaking is important, especially if you actually like your belongings. They need to learn and understand boundaries.
When looking for a crate, it is important that you look into finding one that is big enough for them to properly exist in. You will need to remember that they have to be able to get up and turn around in it. Just make sure that it isn't big enough for them to find a spot where they think it is okay to go to the bathroom. This helps with training them to go outside and find the proper place to go to the bathroom. House breaking is the best part.
Dog Socialization
Socializing Your Pup
Housebreaking the Pup
Housebreaking is incredibly important. This requires you to truly make an effort every day.
Dogs are great and raising them from their puppy years can be really fulfilling. It is also pretty cool to give them their own bed, so look into some pretty cool dog beds while you're at it.