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Tell Winalot all the things people don’t tell you about owning a puppy: £200 Amazon voucher prize
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Be prepared for him/her at home before you pick him/her up. Make a list of the things your puppy will need and where his 'special little place' will be, just as you do for a new baby because, in fairness, it's pretty much the same thing, you are bringing a new little life into your family. The big difference is, your puppy is leaving everything and everyone he's known so it's up to you to not only make him welcome but to make him feel safe and loved.
A visit to the vet for a check over, any injections he might not have had and a chip just in case he decides at anytime he'd like to do a bit of exploring without you. Insurance is always a good thing too and remember there are more and more unscrupulous people out there who might just take a liking to your new treasure so make sure he's kept secure. Lastly, remember what you put into him and not just in terms of food but, in training, love and care he will reward you with ten fold not only in being a good companion but, a friend who brings happiness and gives love unconditionally, a protector and a wonderful confidant, they never tell your secrets!
Worrying about her putting on weight, losing her teeth, mixing with other dogs the list goes on
But the unconditional love and my constant shadow, I feel I have a purpose she has helped me through some very difficult times
Noone tells you about the sleepless nights, the constant worry about are they healthy, putting on weight, nice to people and other dogs.
The toilet training and spending all time outside and yet still wee inside.
But the unconditional love is amazing, I feel I have a purpose now and she has helped me through difficult loss where my mental health didnt suffer due to our fur ball
She is the best thing in our lives
Being strict with them is very hard but important if you want to have a well behaved dog, they just want to please so if they know the boundaries they will get there. Consistency and routine is really important and that is by all members of the family.
Exposing them to as many different experiences, environments, people and other animals as early as possible will help them accept them as normal.
There will be lots of times it will 'go wrong' but keep persevering, trying to ignore the bad behaviour but giving lots of positive reinforcement for the behaviours you want.
Be prepared for lots of heartbreak too but they will be your best friend ever.
Can you afford Vets Fees , yearly vaccination costs , Insurance payments . Are you willing to pay to attend classes if your dog needs training ?
Most importantly Do you have the time . If you work 8 hours a day who is caring for the dog while you're not home .
If you can answer all of the questions then it's the time to look .
That "puppy proofing" your house is even more intense than "toddler proofing"
That you will get reacquainted with sleepless nights
That they will both improve and restrict your social life!
That you never thought you could love something furry so much
Mine hates her own bed, she will lay anywhere other than her bed!