Tips and Tricks

Get on the Crate Train

Crate training your new puppy is a game changer. Do this when they are young and they will love it for the rest of their life.

When to crate: at night, when you leave the house, naps, during the day, when you can’t see them, if you need a break etc.

Food & Water

Do not feed or give water 2-3 hours before bedtime. Be mindful of the this during the day too. They will need to go to the bathroom after eating, so feed and walk before putting her in the crate.

Crying at Night

Puppies are going to cry at night. Make sure you take your new puppy out to potty before you put them to bed. When in doubt take them outside (no playing) and then put them directly back in the crate.

Make a Schedule

If there was ever a time to do this….. it’s now. Puppies have small bladders and will need to go potty quite often. Make sure you, your family, dog walkers etc are all on the same page.

Train them Young

Start with some basics: sit down, stay and recall, use meals for training. Puppies love to eat. Have some fun while they work for their food and learn some new things.

Nipping

Puppyhood is like having a small, adorable crocodile. Alway have chew toys on hand. When they go to nibble on your hands, fingers or clothes redirect with a bully stick or toy. If they do end up nipping you make a loud sound to make sure they know it hurts.

Supervise

If you can’t see them your puppy should be in the crate. If not this is when they will potty or start chewing on something they shouldn't.

Exposure

One of the most powerful things you can do for your new puppy is expose her to all the things. Take her for car rides, turn on the vacuum, find YouTube videos with fireworks, bring them to brunch, take them to Home Depot. This will pay off so much in the long run when you have a dog that is desensitizes to outside stimulants.