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Few can resist a puppy. These beautiful, soft bundles of energy are, in many ways, like four-legged children with tails. And, like children, puppies need a lot of time, care, love and understanding. Because these adorable furballs will depend on you for frequent and regular feedings and walks, for guidance and training, for a lot of your time and a lot of your love.
Housetraining your puppy means training her to potty on a schedule you determine. To do this successfully, you will need to establish and strictly adhere to a predictable feeding and walking routine. Very young puppies (two to three months old) need to eat a measured meal at least three times a day, and should be taken outside to potty shortly after each feeding.
The single most important thing to do for your new puppy is to bond with her. Creating and deepening this emotional tie with your pup will make obedience training easier, behavior problems fewer and less intense, and will enhance your enjoyment of your pup. Feed your puppy with affection; walk your pup with pleasure and excitement; comb and brush her gently; exercise her in a playful manner.
Your puppy's first night (or two, or three, or four) will very likely be memorable. That's a nice way of saying, expect the worst. Expect your new puppy to wake you several times during the first night with her cries, barks or even howls. Quite simply, she's in a new environment and may be stressed out, frightened, insecure. She may also have to potty. Take care of her needs, be comforting and caring. Above all, do not yell or be impatient; this will only increase your puppy's stress. All should calm down soon enough.
Don't overlook the need for socialization. People often assume that their pup will get along with other pups -- and with humans outside of their family. Without proper, supervised socialization, this is often just not the case.
Establish a good relationship with a veterinarian you trust to take care of your new companion's various health needs. Shirley will have her first puppy shots and be in good health, your veterinarian will cover the specifics of additional canine healthcare with you.
Shirley’s adoption fee includes her spay surgery with a DFWCSR vet and is a requirement for her adoption. You can discuss this further during the application process. If Shirley is the pup for you, please fill out an application with her name at the top and we’ll be in touch. |
