Need to know the right things to do with your new puppy? Here are
some useful steps.
- Make sure you discipline your puppy wisely and fairly. Never
smack the puppy, as this will only cause the puppy to fear you.
Never rub his nose in an "accident" - this only confuses him.
Instead, reward him for going to the bathroom outside. Be sure to
watch him for signs that he has to go (sniffing and circling), and
then take him outside. Puppies need to go after a meal and while
exercising.
- Walk your puppy once a day. (NB: only after he/she has had
his/her vaccinations!)
- Get your puppy used to baths by starting with a small amount of
water and working your way up to a deeper level. Do not bathe your
dog execively, as this can cause skin problems, especially in
German Shepherds.
- Socialize your puppy both to people and to other dogs so that
he does not become shy and/or aggressive. As soon as vaccinations
are complete, make sure your puppy meets lots of strangers
(standing outside a PetSmart or similar store and greeting those
who enter is a good way). Be careful, though, of other dogs who
might be aggressive. Be ready to pull your puppy away for his own
protection.
- Be wise about food. Do not feed your puppy table scraps, and do
not feed him while he is begging at the table because you would be
rewarding bad behavior. Feed him a high-quality puppy food and
occasional treats made for dogs. Never give a dog chocolate,
grapes, raisins, onions, or candies/mints made with Xylitol, as
these can seriously injure or even kill your dog.
- Train your dog with positive reinforcement. Do not punish your
puppy. If he does something wrong, just don't reward it. You will
see how quickly he will want to do what you want to get the treat!
For more praise training methods, Victoria Stilwell is a great
choice.
- Show your dog love. He will
become more loyal and will stay with you.
- Make sure the puppy has a lot of chew toys.
- Cuddle your puppy a lot.
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Warnings
- If you are doubtful about your puppy's health, why not take a
visit to the vet. Who knows, maybe you'll get the appointment for
free!
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Things You'll Need
- A puppy
- Toys - puppies need toys for mental stimulation.
- Collar or harness (better for puppies who pull - it doesn't
damage their tracheas) and leash
- Comfortable dog bed
- Food bowl and water bowl
- Clicker and a book on clicker training - the best way to train
your puppy!
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Sources and Citations
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