We are in the midst of a pandemic puppy boom! The onset of the pandemic has given rise to the dramatic increase in the purchase and adoption of puppies! This is truly amazing and good at the end of all dogs who are finally adopted and with a forever home. However, puppy care is not as easy as it seems.
Dog care is full of responsibility. The pet that will give you endless cuddles and pure unconditional love will need total care and nourishment from you. It’s pretty much similar to bringing home a newborn child!
If you’re thinking of joining the pandemic puppy boom, please do consider reading the following tips first. It will brief you on the realities of how demanding, draining, but ultimately fulfilling puppy care can be!
1. All puppies need crate training. This is pretty major for puppies because they’re used to being surrounded by their mom and their littermates. This will be the first thing that you need to deal with upon bringing one home. They will be crying non-stop and demanding to be set free and it will break your heart, but this training is necessary to have them well-trained and not pee and poo all over your house.
2. Puppies, like babies, need to pee every night. So be sure that you’re ready for some sleepless nights!
3. Daycare will be bearable and not a problem because they sleep for 18 – 20 hours.
4. Try to have a blanket with their mother’s scent placed on their crate to make them feel more relaxed.
5. Consistent scheduling is key in making sure that you have a well-behaved and well-trained puppy!
6. Puppies, like babies, also experience teething! Be ready to have your furniture, clothes, and toes chewed upon! Best to puppy proof your house!
7. Never scold your puppy. Apply positive reinforcement instead.
8. You will need to brush their teeth, cut their nails, clean their ears, and give them baths!
9. Beware of asphalt temperature before walking them!
10. Don’t walk them out until they’ve completed all their vaccinations. And yes, like babies, they need a complete set of vaccinations for a healthy life!
Puppies are magical. They grow so fast so you better cherish every single moment you have with them. A special last tip is to take as many puppy pictures as you can!
If you think you’re ready for a puppy — financially, mentally, and physically — go ahead and adopt! You won’t regret it