So you have decided on a puppy …
Congratulations for making such an important decision but there are some very important things still to get right.
OK there are some things you shouldn’t do
Don’t buy on impulse
A puppy is not a commodity. It is a companion for life. So don’t surprise someone with a puppy for their birthday or Christmas. A Labrador has a typical lifespan of about 13 to 15 years so factor this level of commitment into your decision making.
Don’t leave puppy alone
It is so important that you don’t neglect to give puppy what she needs most … your time. Puppies and younger dogs need you. Don’t leave puppy alone for too long. Don’t think you can feed the puppy in the morning and come home in the evening and everything will be fine. Make sure that you or someone competent is home for those first few months.
Don’t overstimulate puppy
When you take a puppy home it will only be eight weeks old and so it’s really still a baby. It does need a lot of your time – you need to strike a balance between keeping puppy stimulated and its need for plenty of rest. If you have younger children you will need to have a special place where puppy can retreat to away from the kids.
Avoid stairs, excessive jumping & jogging
Puppies and dogs up to one year old can suffer if over-exercised. Repetitive jumping from heights is a common cause of shoulder injury. Avoid having puppy running up and down stairs as this is a major cause of elbow issues. Lift them down from a ute or the back of your car. Take care to build your puppy’s level of physical endurance.
Six Things Every Puppy Needs From You.
Every dog obviously has basic needs that must be met – they need to be well fed, to be sheltered and to be loved.
Pretty simple isn’t it? I wish it was that simple but time and time again people make mistakes that compromise the transition from their litter mates to a new home alone.
Set and Keep Boundaries.
Dogs observe you closely and want to please. Don’t make it hard for them. Let them know clearly what you want and where the boundaries lie.
Be Consistent.
If you apply the rules inconsistently don’t be surprised if puppy pushes the boundaries.
Engage with your puppy
Spend quality time with your puppy. Keep it short and enjoyable with lots of rest in between.
Provide safe spaces
Puppies need safe spaces. Yes a warm, dry place to sleep but also a fenced and secure yard.
Use positive reinforcement
Good discipline is all about positive reinforcement. Take the time to read up on the topic and practise it.
Socialise your puppy
Take yourself and puppy to puppy preschool at your local vet. Once vaccinated take puppy out to meet other dogs and people. Think about advanced training that challenges your Labrador’s innate character strengths.