How to Deal With a Puppy

Puppies are cute, cuddly and fun. Puppies can also be destructive and frustrating. Many dog owners can tell tales of chewed up household items. Caring for a puppy involves a major time and financial commitment and a lot of patience. It is important to become an educated dog parent so you can raise a healthy, well trained member of the family.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Puppy food and supplies
• Veterinarian
• Obedience training class
• Patience

1. Take some time to seriously consider if a puppy is right for you. You may decide that it is better to adopt a young dog that is already trained. There are many animal shelters and rescue groups that have healthy, adoptable dogs that are waiting for a new home.

2. Purchase supplies such as food, an identification tag, collar, leash, toys, bedding and grooming supplies. Also plan to license your puppy with your state when he is old enough. Each state has different requirements, so contact your county's animal care and control office with inquiries.

3. Plan a budget to provide appropriate medical care. Puppies need several vaccinations during their first few years. Unless you plan to breed your dog, you should spay or neuter. Find a veterinarian you like. Ask family and friends who have pets for a recommendation. When selecting a vet, consider the location and business hours in relation to your lifestyle.

4. Remove temptation. Puppies have little self-control. Remove all items within the puppy's reach that he may find appealing to chew. Restrict the puppy's access within the house when you go out.

5. Start house training as soon as you bring the puppy comes home. Pick a spot outside and take the puppy there on a frequent basis. Give praise when the puppy goes potty outside. Expect that there will be some accidents. Consult a book or website for guidance.

6. Set rules and correct bad behavior. All puppies make mistakes. How you respond will determine if your puppy grows up to be a well-behaved dog. Learn the proper way to correct bad behavior. Ask your veterinarian, read a book or visit dog care websites. Never hit your dog!

7. Sign up for obedience training as soon as the puppy is old enough. The United States Humane Society recommends puppy obedience class when a dog is between 8 and 16 weeks old. There are many options including a group class at a local pet store or private instruction at home.

Tips & Warnings

• Get help if you have problems caring for your puppy. Contact your veterinarian, a professional dog trainer or your local animal care and control for advice.

[wavez2000]

on 12/4/2008 When I say he goes near his kennel, he goes on the carpet near the rocking chair bottom. He's done this twice. Surely the lady before me trained him in some way, wish I could get in contact with her.

[wavez2000]

on 12/4/2008 My dog is 6 months old. I just got him and a lady owned him before me and had to give him up to the pound. He goes outside, but I have to decide when he goes, he doesnt give me any indication when he needs to go other than when he squats and goes near his kennel. I have a dog pad in the kitchen but he wont go on it. I am clueless as to what to do. Im a bit frusterated, I love him, but I wonder if it was the right thing to do to get a dog. Will he ever quit being so hyper? Help....