HOW TO AVOID HARMING YOUR PUPPY !!!

... When you bring your puppy home, you have to prepare a safe environment for your puppy … here are some tips to avoid harming your puppy …

Always be aware of where your puppy is. You can attach a bell to your puppy's collar. If you can't watch your puppy 24/7, it would be wise for you to set up 'safe areas'. Rooms or parts of rooms that are blocked off from the rest of the house are ideal; for example, have one room in the house that has nothing in it but their crate. In these safe rooms, be sure that your puppy cannot access anything he or she isn't allowed to have.

Crate train your puppy. It's always good to crate train your puppy, and it's not hard.

• ·         Set the puppy up in a habit. When you go to sleep, put it in its crate. Don't have him/her get too used to this; however, because it could create a fairly separated relationship between you and your puppy.
• ·         In the morning, as soon as you wake up, let the puppy out of its crate and into the backyard. Watch the puppy until it does its business, or leave it outside for 15-20 minutes. That will be long enough for it to do its business.
• ·         When you leave for work, bring it in again and place it in its crate. If you have the opportunity to come home for lunch, then let it outside in the backyard to play until you have to leave the house again.
• ·         When you come home in the evening, let it out and bring it back in. Not only will this set it up on its crate training, but getting into a scheduled habit will help considerably with the potty training.

Use your own instinct. Basic common sense is the answer to a lot of questions people have about animals. If you are doubtful about anything, then it is best to err on the side of caution. If you think your puppy might get into something, it probably will. It's best to take precautions before that happens, to save yourself from heartache over a sick animal and anger over a huge bill.

Research the dog's character. In order to provide the best life for you and your dog, try to research your dog's breed so you know what tendencies the dog may have that will affect your relationship.

• ·         If the animal is bred to herd, then you might find activities that will work that instinct.
• ·         Many dogs need daily activity that is specialized for their breed.
• ·         Research your property. Parvovirus infection, which is a leading cause of death in most dogs, can live in the soil for over a hundred years. If you're not sure what Parvo is, do an internet search or ask your vet, and make sure to stay current on your shots. If you can't, consider giving the dog to a home that can provide it with adequate health care. Check also that your backyard is safe for dogs and has no sharp objects, loose wires, deep holes, etc. These might injure your puppy. Some of the symptoms of Parvo are vomiting and bloody poop.

Talk to your vet. You'll need to build an on-going relationship with your vet if you are to provide the best care for your animal. Having the vet on speed dial isn't always a bad idea. Your vet will most likely be your number one source for all your pet needs.