Preparing for Your New Puppy
Bringing home a new puppy is similar to bringing home a new human baby. Puppies don't require quite as much as a human baby, but these tiny fluff balls are going to rely on you to make them feel safe, teach them manners, where to potty, and more! Below is a mini guide to help you prepare for your new family member.
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We know it can feel a bit overwhelming, so we do our best to send you home with a few items to begin your journey. We will send you home with a couple of days' worth of dry dog food, a can of wet, cute toys, and a teething toy.
Pre Puppy To-Do List:
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Find a vet and make a "1st visit" appointment
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Sign up for an in-person puppy kindergarten training class
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Puppy proof your home (if they can get to it, they can chew it)
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Purchase puppy supplies (crate, playpen, bed, dishes, leash/collar, brush etc.)
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Stock up on different types of toys
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​Decide on house rules (is puppy allowed on the couch, allowed to jump, in the kitchen etc)
Once Home:
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Quiet bonding time 2-3 days
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First vet visit within first 5 days
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Continue crate training
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Remember they are babies
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Establish a routine (bedtime, potty, eat, play, nap etc.)
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​Don't let them get away with stuff because they are cute (inforce rules that will continue as they age)
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Start puppy training class by 10 weeks old (10-12 weeks are a crucial socialization period)
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Socialize - take puppy anywhere you can to introduce them to new sites, sounds, activities BUT they won't be fully vaccinated yet, so unless in training class they should be held or in a stroller
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Find puppy parent friends, for moral support & play dates
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Don't forget we will always be available as a resource!
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We are partnered with Baxter & Bella's Online Training Program. Use code CITYVIEW25 for an exclusive discount.
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Baxter & Bella offers an online puppy school designed to help owners train their dogs with professional guidance. Their lifetime membership provides access to various resources like step-by-step lessons, videos, live support, and a private training app. The platform focuses on positive reinforcement and caters to all ages and breeds. They also offer free resources like a podcast, blog, and online training tools to help create a well-behaved, confident dog.
Finding a Trainer
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Looking for in person training?
​To find a trainer near you, visit the Association of Professional Dog Trainers website and search by zip code. You can also ask for recommendations in local Facebook groups or use Yelp to review trainers. If you're still having trouble, big box pet stores often offer positive reinforcement training programs to help with basic manners and socialization for puppies.
Puppy Supply Guide
Below are some ideas to start your puppy supply shopping. If you have any questions or need any other suggestions, please let us know!
Sleep/Relax
Crate
Dog Beds
Play Pen (30" minimum)
Snuggle Puppy
Socializing
Doggie Stroller
Leash/Harness
Doggie Seatbelt
Easy Walk Harness
Potty
Puppy Pads
Potty Cleaner
Poop Bags
Potty Bell
Playtime
Teething Toys
Plush Toys
Snuffle Mat
Treat Ball
Eating
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food
Food/Water Dishes
Training Treats/ Bully Sticks
Puzzle Feeders
Grooming
Ear Cleaning Solution
Chris Christenson Brush
Toothpaste & Toothbrush
Lick Mat