Bringing home a new pet can be full of excitement and fun, but it can be plenty of work–especially when you are dealing with a rambunctious new puppy. Getting your home ready for your household’s newest member is key to ensuring that the introductions are comfortable and safe for everyone involved.
Create a Comfortable Space
Puppies need a comfortable bed and a safe spot to rest without getting into trouble. Set up a designated area where your new pup can relax and play safely without damaging any items around the house or accidentally chewing or swallowing any loose items. A cozy corner inside of a pen or a crate is ideal for sleeping at night. A pen is ideal for daytime because it allows for a little bit of space to roam and room for toys without giving your pup access to the whole house. This also can consolidate messes, which makes your life easier as your puppy is potty trained.
Gather Supplies
Before bringing your puppy home, it’s time to gather all the supplies you will need. A trip to your local department store or pet store is essential before your new pup arrives. Be sure to make a list of essentials as well as some extras that may make the training process run more smoothly. Keep in mind that large items like crates or puppy gates may be purchased secondhand to save money.
Some ideal items to put on your pet shopping list:
- Pet bed and crate
- Pet or baby gates or a pet pen
- Puppy Pads
- Puppy food and training treats
- Toys
- Puppy-safe cleaners and sprays
- Enzymatic cleaners
- Pet-safe disinfecting sprays
- No marking or biting sprays
- Puppy-specific shampoos and wipes
Puppy Proof
Puppies, just like toddlers, get into mischief and tend to put things in their mouths that can be dangerous. Before you bring your new furry friend home, it’s time to remove hazardous items like small objects that could be swallowed, any plants that are toxic for dogs and items that are normally on the floor or coffee tables but could be unsafe for a curious puppy. Pay close attention to items like houseplants, household cleaners, electrical cords, shoes and remotes that may all be stored within a puppy’s reach. Outdoors, check once again for plants that may be toxic to pets or small household items that could be dangerous, safely store outdoor fertilizers and chemicals, and check your fencing for any gaps or areas where a puppy could escape.
