What a nightmare. New puppies are supposed to be a joy, yet here you are at your wits end with a puppy screaming in their
The Happy Puppy Site
Puppy Care Guidance
raising a healthy, happy, puppy
Caring for a healthy puppy can be very straightforward. The aim is to create an environment where your puppy can thrive. That means training and socialization, together with the right amount of food, rest, and exercise. Sounds simple right?
Sometimes raising a puppy can be challenging. Some puppies cry a lot, some bite really hard, and training problems are common.
If life with a puppy feels hard right now, don't worry, we have lots of ideas and information to help you.
What's Next!
From the moment you bring home your new puppy, you are responsible for the following:
Don't panic! We can help you with that list. It's important though, that you make provision for veterinary treatment for your puppy. That means registering your puppy with a veterinarian in your area. We strongly recommend you insure your puppy against medical costs as these can be eye-wateringly expensive.
Socialization is a big deal. It's not something that you can ignore and it needs to start from the very first week you have your puppy home. Do check out our guides to socialization and training. You can use those 'READ MORE' links below
Socialization
8-12 week old puppies are very accepting of new things. This critical period does not last much beyond three months of age. Socialization is all about exposing your puppy to a wide range of situations and experiences before they become fearful of the unknown. READ MORE
Training
Training your puppy is all about teaching good manners and safe behaviors. Modern dog training is simple behavior modification and usually takes the form of games and enjoyable exercises that build up your dog's skills in easy steps. READ MORE
The Easy Puppy
Some puppies really are no trouble at all. I’ve had puppies like that. You’ll find information on puppy basics in those links above. And if your puppy is one of those ‘easy ones’, then hopefully that’s all you’ll need.
If not, we are here for you. I’ve also had some very challenging puppies, that have really tested my patience and resolve. And I know just how demoralizing that can feel.
Puppy Stages
All puppies, even those 'easy' ones, go through stages that are challenging. All puppies go through a biting phase for example, and can be very destructive if bored and left to their own devices.
Check out our guide to puppy development and growth, to find out which stage your puppy is at, and what comes next! You can also find out what to expect your puppy starts teething.
Problem Puppies
Problem puppies tend to fall into one of two buckets - health problems, or behavior problems. And when your puppy has serious problems in either of those two areas it can be tough on your entire family.
You’ll find information and advice on our ‘get help page’ with a whole range of common (and less common) puppy problems
Focus On The Solution
Puppy parents are often given to believe that all puppies are born as a somewhat blank slate waiting to be written on. And that all puppy problems are caused by bad puppy parenting. This is not true.
Particularly with behavior problems, it is very common for puppy parents to believe it is all their fault. But sometimes a problem is just plain bad luck. And once that problem has arisen, it's important to focus on the solution rather than blaming yourself
From The Blog
How Long Does It Take To Potty Train A Puppy?
Puppies pee and poop a lot! Potty training teaches your puppy where to eliminate, and a good potty training system helps you manage your puppy
Raw Food for Puppies: How to Feed Your Puppy on Natural Raw Food
Whilst most dogs nowadays feed on commercial kibble, there is a growing interest in raw food for puppies. I have raw fed puppies into adulthood
15 Things To Buy For A German Shepherd Puppy
There are some things to buy for a German Shepherd puppy which are non-negotiable – you simply can’t raise one without them. Other things are
8 Week Old German Shepherd Dog – Facts And Puppy Routines
8 week old German Shepherd puppies are ready to be separated from their littermates and settle into their new homes. Bringing home that new puppy
Poodle Grooming
Poodle grooming can seem daunting at first, but with the right instruction and tools for the job, you’ll soon find your feet. For your Poodle’s
To read more puppy care articles, check out the puppy care archives.
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