A Beginner's Guide to Adopting a Puppy

The day you bring home a new puppy is one of the best and most important days in your life. Bringing a dog into your home is a big decision, and there are lots of things to keep in mind when you adopt a new pup. Puppies have their own special requirements when compared to adult dogs, too.

So today, we're going to talk about what you need to do to get ready to bring home your very first puppy!

Do Your Research!

If you're thinking of getting a puppy, do your research first.

Deciding between getting one from a responsible breeder or adopting from a shelter involves weighing up the pros and cons. Think about what suits your home life better.

Researching different dog breeds will help you find one that fits your lifestyle. Look at factors like size, energy level, and grooming needs to find a breed that suits you.

💡 BONUS TIP: Mixed breeds have traits from both parents, which can make them less predictable than purebreds. Spend time with a mixed-breed puppy before adopting to understand its temperament.

If you're adopting from a shelter, talk to the workers and ask about the dog's personality.

If you decide to go with a breeder, keep in mind that there may be a waiting list. A responsible breeder will take the time to match the right puppy with the right home, so they may choose your puppy for you.

Prepare Your Home

Puppy-proof your home by removing potential hazards. Keep electrical cords, small objects, and toxic substances out of reach. Create a cozy space for your new puppy. They need essentials like a comfortable bed, water and food bowls, and appropriate toys. Your new friend also needs a collar for ID tags, a harness for walking, and a leash.

Some shelters and breeders want to do home visits before they let you bring home a puppy. They will want to meet other family members and see what the home environment is like. They will also want to meet any other pets you have.

Establish Your Dream Team

You won’t be the only person in your puppy’s life. There are some important relationships you need to build.

First, before you bring your puppy home, you need to find a vet. Even a healthy puppy needs to see the vet! You want to build a good relationship with your vet early in your dog's life. 

Puppies need several vaccinations during their first year of life. Your vet can also give you great advice on caring for a puppy. They can help you make decisions to give the best health options.

Another important person in your dog’s life is their groomer. If you know your pup will have a high maintenance coat as an adult, let them meet their groomer early. Take them to the groomer for baths and introductions to the process. This will make it less scary for them as an adult. 

Prepare for Puppy Energy

Puppies have lots of energy! Plan for regular exercise, like walks. Taking your puppy for walks is a great way to burn off that energy. Walks let them explore and learn, too. Keep puppy walks short and easy. Big hills or challenging terrain are too much for little legs. Your puppy also needs lots of play time! Toys can help keep them active and entertained.

Puppy classes are also a good idea. These classes teach you how to teach your dog. They also provide a safe, controlled environment for your puppy to meet other dogs and people. This will help them develop positive social skills. Exposing them to new experiences helps them feel comfortable and confident. It teaches them that new things can be fun, not scary!

Extra Love and Bonding

Building a strong bond with your puppy requires love, patience, and time. Spend quality moments together, show affection, and be patient during the learning process. Your positive interactions will strengthen the connection between you and your new companion. Your dog will be a good friend for years to come, but they're only a puppy for a short time. Puppies can be a lot of work, but they are worth it!

As you prepare for your new puppy, you may have lots of questions and want advice. We get you! Check out the Joyride Blog for lots of tips and tricks for taking care of a new puppy. And once your puppy is home, shop the Joyride Harness. Our harness fits any size of dog, even little pups.