Be Puppy Prepared

Your cute little puppy is almost ready to come home! The kids can't wait to welcome in the newest addition to the family, and you're on your way to becoming a responsible dog owner, and get some insight into some basic dog training.

Here are a few basic things you should do and get before bringing her home.

But, of course, before I go on, here is a picture of cute little "Harry" who is my friend's Chihuahua. We were to glad to sit and watch him for a few hours one day. He was very well behaved, and like most pups, inquisitive.

Now where was I? Oh yeah, First things first.

Choose a veterinarian, then call and make an appointment; your "four-legged wonder" needs a check up soon after you bring her home.

This would then be the perfect time to ask your vet about vaccinations, and whatever questions that you may have, concerning the health and well being of your new pup. It would also be a good idea to jot down your questions ahead of time, before talking to, or seeing the vet.

If you are the only one in the household that will care for her, you will need to request off from work or take a mini vacation. She needs you to be there in the early stages for companionship, guidance, and potty training.

Potty training will take at least 18 weeks. No, don't stay off work for that long, you wish. Make arrangements for someone to be there with her, when you can't. This person must be educated on the method you choose for potty training and obedience training. Willing to follow the schedule or routine that you set up, in order to make potty training run smoothly, for both you, and your pup.

Puppy-proof your home. Safety is the number one concern for all dog owners. Practice safety from the beginning, in your home, at least a week before her arrival. Do this on a daily basis.

Pick up all small objects off the floor, especially food stuff. Raisins, grapes, chocolate, and coffee are just some of the foods that will get her sick. Dogs like to explore with their mouths, and we don't want an accident to happen at the get go.

The ASPCA has compiled this list so that we can all be aware of the different types of harmful things that are in the common home.

Well, these are pretty much some of the basic things that one should do before bringing your new puppy home. Now, here are some of the basic things that you need to get.

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