Apart from Christmas and birthdays, there is no better day than when you pick up your puppy from the breeder. It is also a difficult day for the puppy though it’s an exciting moment for him. For some few weeks, he has been living comfortably next to his mother and siblings and now he is being taken away. This is still different from what he has been used to.
Preparing to Receive Your Puppy
Everyone should be calm when the puppy arrives at home. The best way that you can make your puppy trust you more is by being calm and relaxed yourself. If you have other pets in the house then do not rush to introduce them to the pup. When walking through the front door with your pup for the first time, let him take a minute or two sniffing his surroundings. Let him sit quietly while hugging him close and allow him in small steps sniffing out the house.
The First Day
Ensure that you bring your new friend home during a long weekend or times when all your attention will be on him only. This will give both of you enough time to get used to each other’s company carefully. On your way back home ensure someone keeps either holding tight on her lap or crating it if it’s free but securely stitched up. Avoid running errands after picking up your dog instead go straight home. Once inside, take the puppy outside so that he can relieve himself quickly before taking him back in again. Walk calmly around his designated bathroom area.
Adjustment to New Surroundings
And have him lay down where he can begin exploring things from there; maybe run around a bit or crouch under couches staring back at you—just give some time for rules and a schedule upon settling in place next (or area), pick out a low traffic spot where eating/sleeping are done as well; perhaps this could double as his crate location too Consideration is also given in terms of clean bowls of food and water that should be ready in advance during the first day feed your dog the same way as its previous owner did.
Visiting the Vet
If possible, take your puppy to a veterinarian for a “pre-purchase exam.” It’s good to schedule a veterinary appointment on the day when you go to pick up your pup. Your vet will then listen deeper to his heart, look at his eyes and ears under magnification, examine his teeth and gums, feel around his lymph nodes and so on.
Settling down for the Night
When bedtime arrives cuddle him one more time, put towel next bed, turn on soft radio or other white noise device and say goodnight. Also make sure you check that he takes enough water though it may appear reduced intake of food because he is settling in. Hopefully both he and you will have a restful sleep so that you can enjoy many days ahead filled with lots of fun.
Avoid Hurting Your Puppy
First, never ever lift your dog by his front legs or just beneath his armpits as if he were a doll. Such puts too much weight on the elbow and shoulders which can be hurtful. Also, avoid lifting your dog by its scruff of the neck. You should watch out for signs that your dog is uncomfortable with how it is being carried. Use proper techniques when picking up and carrying your dog.
Selecting Your Puppy
Choosing a pup who is neither first nor last to respond when called, neither shy nor a bully with littermates and who is not outstanding or underwhelming in the litter would often be a best match for a happy family – easy to train, travel with, manage and adapt in their daily life. This gives you the best chance of taking home the right puppy for your family. Remember that a good breeder will insist on making what he feels are the best matches for your family instead of leaving it all to you.