Bringing your new puppy home can be a heartwarming experience filled with joy and excitement.

The adoration for those tiny paw prints and soft whimpers is indeed overwhelming, but it’s essential to remember that handling a puppy requires a great deal of care, responsibility, and understanding.

Your puppy’s welfare should always be your primary concern. You must begin by creating a safe space for your new four-legged friend.

This may include puppy-proofing certain areas of your home to prevent any accidents or potential harm.

Remember, a puppy’s curiosity knows no bounds; their adventurous spirit may lead them into problematic situations if not appropriately supervised.

HANDLING YOUR PUPPY

When handling your puppy, gentle yet firm touches are crucial.

Puppies are still growing, and their bones are fragile. Lifting your puppy must be done with the utmost care.

Always support his/her bottom and chest, cradling close to your body to provide security and comfort.

THE RIGHT WAY

Promote positive behaviors and discourage the negative ones as part of their training.

Puppies thrive on routines, so try to establish feeding, playing, and sleeping schedules right from the start.

Just like human babies, puppies need lots of sleep, so ensure they have a cozy, quiet place to rest undisturbed.

Socialisation is another essential factor in puppy welfare. Introduce your puppy to a variety of people, environments, and other animals to help become well-rounded adult dogs.

Start with short, controlled exposures and gradually increase the time spent as your puppy becomes comfortable.

OFF TO THE VETS

Veterinary care is crucial in the early stages of your puppy’s life. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and deworming are critical for a healthy, happy pup.

Also, get advice from your vet about the best diet for your puppy.

A balanced and nutritious diet is paramount for their growth and development.

Remember, your puppy relies on you for its well-being.

INVESTMENT

Invest time in understanding their needs and behaviors and respond to them with patience and love.

The bond that this time of care and attention will forge between you and your puppy is nothing short of magical.

Embrace these moments and enjoy the journey of raising your adorable new companion.

In a nutshell, handling a puppy involves a lot of love and a bit of labor.

But the unconditional love and loyalty that they offer in return make every effort worthwhile.

First Time Dog Owner book by Lee Richards