Are you ready for a puppy?

July 25, 2024

Adopting a puppy is a wonderful and rewarding experience! Here are some steps to help you prepare:

Breed Research: Understand different breeds' characteristics, energy levels, grooming needs, and health issues to find one that fits your lifestyle. Here is a link about Cockapoos.
Time Commitment: Puppies require a lot of time for training, socialization, and companionship.

Puppy-Proofing: Remove hazards like electrical cords, toxic plants, and small objects they can swallow. Secure trash cans and cabinets.
Space Setup: Create a designated area for your puppy with a bed, water and food bowls, and toys.

Crate and Bedding: For crate training and a safe space for your puppy. Here's a dog crate.
Food and Water Bowls: Stainless steel or ceramic are recommended. Here is a good stainless one we like.
Puppy Food: Consult with a vet to choose a high-quality, age-appropriate food. We like the Purina ProPlan food for Adults and Pups Under One Year Old.
Toys: Chew toys, interactive toys, and comfort toys.
Collar and Leash: Adjustable collar and a sturdy leash for walks.
Grooming Supplies: Brushes, nail clippers, puppy shampoo, and dental care items.

Veterinarian: Find a reputable vet for your puppy's health check-ups, vaccinations, and advice. We work with Sugarcreek Veterinary Clinic, based in Sugarcreek, Ohio and East Holmes Veterinary Clinic, Berlin, Ohio. We have vets visit our location to check the health of our pups and adults and we have a great working relationship. Feel free to call either of the above vet offices for references on us (if you want an assurance that we're legit:) ) They are both also great to answer health report questions. Sugarcreek Vet: Call 330-852-2321. East Holmes Vet: 330-893-2057.
Pet Insurance: Consider getting pet insurance to help cover unexpected medical costs.
ID Tag and Microchip: Ensure your puppy has an ID tag with your contact information and consider microchipping for added security. We always microchip our pups before they are sold. Then the customer can choose to register them or not. Here is a link for registering, and you get a $5 discount when you use this code: 62MFPL

Training Plan: Start with basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leash training. Consistency is key.
Socialization: Expose your puppy to different people, environments, and other animals to help them become well-adjusted.

Feeding Schedule: Stick to a regular feeding schedule to establish a routine. We usually allow free choice food and the adults and pups will self-regulate the amount they consume. We like the Purina ProPlan food for Adults and Pups Under One Year Old.
Potty Training: Be patient and consistent with potty training. Take your puppy out frequently, especially after eating, drinking, and waking up. Consistency is the key... until they get it.
Exercise and Playtime: Provide regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep your puppy healthy and happy.

Budgeting: Be prepared for the costs associated with owning a puppy, including food, vet visits, grooming, and supplies.

Emergency Contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts, including a 24-hour vet clinic.
Backup Care: Arrange for someone to help care for your puppy if you are away or unable to.

Read Books and Articles: Educate yourself on puppy care, training techniques, and common challenges.
Join a Community online (Facebook) or local: Consider joining a local or online puppy owner community for support and advice.

Taking these steps will help ensure that you and your new puppy have a smooth transition and a happy, healthy life together!