In honor of National Puppy Day, we asked our community to share their top tips for new pet parents (aka something they wish they knew before bringing home their pup). Keep reading to see what they had to say!
Establish a Routine Early and Stick to It
Puppies thrive on consistency. A set schedule for feeding, bathroom breaks, sleep, training, and playtime helps them feel secure and learn faster. However, be flexible—every pup is unique, and you’ll likely need to adjust as you go.
Be Patient and Consistent
Training takes time! Puppies learn best with positive reinforcement and routine, so be patient and stick to it. Even when training seems impossible, remember that the hard days will pass, and you’ll look back and miss their puppy phase.
Include Your Puppy in Daily Life
Dogs spend most of their time in the same space, so walks and adventures are the highlights of their day. Let them experience the world with you by exposing them to different environments, people, and experiences. This helps them build confidence and work on their socialization.
Mental Stimulation Is Key
Mental exercises—like our puzzle toys and training games—are just as important as physical exercise, especially in the early days.
Teach Them to Settle
Teaching your puppy the skill of doing nothing—just observing and relaxing—will help them stay calm in new situations, making outings much more enjoyable.
Use the Right Gear
A body harness is the safest way to walk your puppy, preventing choking and providing better support for dogs just learning to walk on a leash. Also, be sure to have many toys on hand for their teething phase and treats for training. And if you’re choosing to crate train, consider buying a larger crate they can grow into rather than replacing multiple crates as they grow.
Understand Your Puppy’s Personality and Breed Needs
Every puppy is different! Research your breed’s specific health, temperament, and exercise needs to set them up for success.
Lean on a Support System
Surround yourself with friends, family, and fellow dog owners who can offer guidance and socialization before your puppy is ready for dog parks.
Enjoy the Journey!
Puppies grow up so fast. Even on the tough days, remember they are learning and adapting—cherish every silly moment!