A new furry friend can be a bundle of joy, but comes with the responsibility of guardianship.
(prHWY.com) April 2, 2012 - Englewood, CO -- Englewood, CO--Mar. 22, 2012--For those considering bringing a new furry friend into their home in honor of National Puppy Day, March 23, Bark Busters, the world's largest dog training company, offers tips for pet parents on how to prepare for their puppy's arrival.
"The love and laughter that comes with a new puppy epitomizes the joy of dog ownership," said Liam Crowe, CEO and master dog behavioral therapist of Bark Busters USA. "But while puppies are cute and cuddly, accepting the role of guardian for a new pup comes with significant responsibilities. Be certain that you and your family are ready to make such a commitment."
Tips for the New Arrival
Before you bring home your puppy, have these supplies on hand:
* Bedding should be thick enough for comfort and sized appropriately for the breed. Be aware that some puppies left unattended for too long may chew their bedding.
* A crate is an invaluable tool when housebreaking a puppy. It also provides your young dog with a sense of security when you are busy or away. However, never leave a puppy in a crate unattended for longer than 4 hours.
* Dog bowls: one for fresh water and one for quality dog food. Consult your veterinarian for food recommendations.
* A well-fitted collar and leash are a must for training and safety during outdoor excursions. Avoid chain leashes; a soft cotton leash is a better alternative.
* A pet ID tag allows your puppy to find his way home should he roam. Even better is to microchip your puppy to provide a permanent form of ID.
* Baby gates are another essential training tool in that they can block off "restricted" areas of the house, and thus help to teach your puppy what areas are off limits.
* Toys made just for dogs, like the puppy-sized KONG® products, are a smart choice. Choose size-appropriate toys for your breed. Although children's toys look cute, they can prove hazardous. Never use old clothing or shoes as toys, as a puppy cannot differentiate between old items and new ones. Always supervise your puppy when he is playing with toys that contain squeakers as they can be a choking hazard.
* A veterinarian should be researched and chosen beforehand, as you will want an established contact should an emergency arise. Introduce your new puppy early to the vet and learn what vaccinations he will need.
* An odor and stain eliminator, such as Buster's Secret (available at BustersSecret.com) is a cleaner you will want on hand for those inevitable housebreaking accidents.
* Brushes and dog shampoo are essential for every dog breed.
Tips to "Puppy Proof" Your House and Yard
"Ensure your home and yard are safe places for your exuberant and curious new puppy before bringing him home," said Crowe.
* Remove potential hazards, especially those that would make an enticing chew toy, including power cords, window blind cords, potted house plants, children's toys, coins, batteries, shoes and clothing, garbage bins, and anything "bite sized" that could be ingested by a curious puppy. Outside, remove small rocks, sticks, fertilizers, gardening tools and equipment. Safely store any toxic household and garage items, such as antifreeze, detergents, mothballs and tobacco products.
* Large and unstable objects should be moved out of harm's way. Such objects could potentially fall on your inquisitive puppy as he explores his new surroundings.
* Move anything cherished or breakable to higher ground. A puppy's wagging tail can sweep a coffee table clean!
* Get on your hands and knees--at the puppy's view--to look for potential problems. If you think an item could be a hazard, remove it.
Tips for the First Day Home
"Your puppy will be excited and anxious in his new environment," said Crowe. "It's your job to make him feel safe and comfortable right from the start."
* Getting acclimated will take him some time. Show your pup where he will be eating, sleeping and toileting. As your puppy adapts to his new surroundings and routine, he will feel more comfortable.
* Be patient. Although accidents will happen, do not reprimand your puppy during the first day or so while he acclimates to his new environment. However, do praise him profusely when he does something positive. This will start you both off on the right foot.
* Structure is a must. Have a planned schedule from the day your pup arrives--especially when trying to housebreak. Take your puppy outside frequently, and stay with him so that you know he has toileted.
* Naps are important for a puppy. Be sure to give him the space and time he needs to relax. Try not to overwhelm your puppy. Like a new baby, he will need frequent naps throughout the day.
* Start training early. Dogs have an instinctual sense of social structure. Your puppy will seek calm, consistent leadership, which is key to managing his behavior. For additional behavior and training tips, please visit BarkBusters.com.
Tips for the First Night Home
"The first few days may prove to be a challenge, as puppies often cry and whine throughout the night, and will need to go out to toilet," said Crowe. "The evening routine you establish is just as important as the daytime routine."
* Your puppy's sleeping arrangements should be in a central location in the house. If you let your puppy sleep in your room, you may have trouble catching any shut-eye.
* Use the crate and bedding at night. As difficult as it is, avoid letting your pup sleep with you or any other family member. It could lead to behavior problems down the road.
* Tough love should be your motto. Usually, a puppy takes several days to feel safe at night. Take him out to toilet every 4-5 hours. Other then that, he will need to get used to sleeping on his own.
* If your puppy still has trouble sleeping at night, hide a ticking clock in his bed. The sound imitates the heartbeat of the mother and can sometimes soothe an anxious pup. To simulate the warmth of his littermates, place a warm water bottle or oversized stuffed toy in his crate for added comfort.
Tips for the Future
* Keeping your puppy healthy begins with a visit to your veterinarian. Usually, a yearly exam and vet-recommended vaccinations will keep your puppy in tip-top shape.
* Exercise your puppy regularly. A walk in the neighborhood or a trip to the park is good for mind and body--for both you and your dog. Be careful not to overdo it with young pups.
* Picking a trainer can be a daunting or confusing task. Consult your veterinarian or visit BarkBusters.com for the best training options for you and your growing puppy.
* Be consistent. Puppies learn through experience and association. The more consistent you are by providing a balanced, positive relationship, the faster your puppy will learn and the better he will perform in the years to come.
About Bark Busters:
Bark Busters, the world's largest, most trusted dog training company, started in Australia in 1989 and came to the United States in 2000. Since inception, more than 500,000 dogs have been trained worldwide using its dog-friendly, natural methods. With hundreds of franchised offices around the world, including locations in 40 states in the U.S., Bark Busters is continuing its mission to build a global network of dog behavioral therapists to enhance responsible dog ownership and reduce the possibility of maltreatment, abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. Bark Busters is the only international dog training company that offers guaranteed lifetime support. SPCA International selected Bark Busters dog behavioral training services as the "Best of the Best" in its category. No other training company or dog trainer received such a distinction. To fetch a trainer in your area, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit
www.BarkBusters.com, where dog owners can complete a Dog Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.
For More Information Visit
http://www.barkBusters.com/
Press Release Contact :
Kristy Pring, Bark Busters USA
Sylvia and Danny Wilson
250 W. Lehow Avenue, Englewood,CO - 80110
Tel No: 720-259-8262
Toll Free No: 1-877-500-2275
kristypring@barkbusters.com
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