Bringing a new puppy home can be stressful. It is really important to start their new life in a calm, settled manner. Here are a few of our tips for the new puppy owner:
1: Try not to over-stimulate your puppy as they may find it difficult to settle at night.
2: Try not to over-feed a ravenous eater. Small puppies may only need a few tablespoons and larger puppies ½ a cup of biscuits.
3: Before putting the pup to bed have a very quiet walk outside. Ignore the pup until they go to the toilet, then have a little play. This avoids the syndrome of the puppy not toileting because they know you will rush inside – then weeing in the corner as soon as you get back inside.
4: Try to settle your puppy on a comfortable bed then when more settled leave them. Some puppies would prefer to be in a covered box or crate as they feel safer in small spaces.
5: If your pup wakes in the night you might take them to the toilet, but don’t interact. Just take them out onto the grass. If they do go to the toilet give some praise and a gentle pat, maybe a food reward, then back to bed.
Having a settled regular bedtime routine is just as important for your puppy as it is for a new baby. Puppies love a routine and the praise of following it. But remember if things have been too exciting they just might not settle!
With any new puppy come and see us as soon as possible for your free puppy health check. With over 60 years experience looking after your pets you can trust the advice of Pittwater Animal Hospital.
Make an Appointment with the Vet
or call us on 9913 7979