Things To Know Before Buying a Puppy

People buy puppies without really knowing what they’re getting into. And yes I know that sounds horrible but ultimately we can get fooled by their cute little faces. We also tend to buy puppies without really thinking about the future. Who knew that cute Mr Sprinkle would turn into a demi-wolf? That is why it is important for you, your partner and or children to consider the following points before purchasing a puppy.

Are you really ready for a puppy?

Yes I know puppies can be irresistible, but let’s face it, there are so many hours in the day. Between work, friends, family and me time, there can be very little time for your puppy. This can leave you feeling guilty and your puppy feeling neglected. Dogs and puppies are like literal children, they require attention and need to be fed. In fact, puppies need to be fed three to four times a day and need to be take outside so they can do their business in the great outdoors (inner city Sydney) and can be house trained. A puppy may also wake you throughout that solid 3 hour sleep you get after a “9 to 5” shift. Your puppy can’t be left alone for very long. Your puppy, like a 2 year old is untrained and needs to be socialised and you’ll have to spend at least a couple of months with it. But don’t worry there are dog schools for that, after reading this blog have a sniff throughout our website. We offer schooling where we can teach your precious puppy to socialise.

What kind of puppy should I get?

So you’ve caved in and bought your kids a dog, turn out the constant nagging works after all (not on my parents but hey, can’t choose your family can ya?) It is important to ask yourself what kind of puppy you would like. I suggest making a list of all the qualities and traits you’d like to see in your pet. Always project to the future, as all dogs are adorable and small now. Things like the size, sex, shed and level of physical activity needed are great places to start. I know I hate it as much as you do but keep in mind that the price for food and medication for larger dogs are more expensive.

Where to find your new puppy?

Now it’s time to buy your puppy (how exciting!). I am definitely not the moral beacon of this article, however I would suggest adopting a dog. I know the RSPCA has collaborated with PetBarn and they actually have a look up on their website where you put in your preferred location and it shows you what dogs they have up for adoption. Adopting a dog is also a cheaper option. Mixed breed dogs are also gorgeous. If you still have your heart set on a purebred (excuse me) look for an experienced dog breeder, try to avoid puppies from flea market (they may have fleas – ok I’ll stop), backyard breeders and pet stores (and they put the puppies in the window to emotionally manipulate you). 

Puppy-proof your home

Ok so you’ve bought your furry friend (oh God) It is important to make sure you puppify your house. Destructive behaviour is very common and dangerous for a puppy and expensive for you. Some common precautions to take include: 

• Hide all electrical cords as best as possible
• Lock cabinets, especially those that contain food or medications, toxic chemicals, and other household items that can be dangerous 
• Keep your household pants up high so your dog can’t chew its leaves (love a trendy vegan dog) 
• Get a trash bag with a locking lid or hide your bins behind doors
• Keep laundry, shoes and other small items out of reach 

Ultimately, the best way to keep your puppy safe is to supervise them all the time. As stated in above, if you have to leave them, put them in a crate.

Stock Up on Puppy Supplies

Like sands through the hourglass, so does the money pit begin. Before bringing your new puppy home it’s best to purchase some products (kind like what you do for a newborn). I would suggest starting with these:

1. Basic four- to six-foot leash (later you can get an extra-long one for training)
2. Adjustable collar with ID tags
3. Metal or ceramic pet bowls for food and water (avoid plastic as it may cause skin irritation and is easy for puppies to chew up)
4. Puppy food
5. Simple dog bed with room to grow
6. Dog crate with room to grow
7. A few simple dog toys (try one of each: a squeaky toy, a plush toy, a chew toy)
8. A brush, comb, or grooming mitt appropriate for your puppy’s coat

As your puppy grows, you’ll need  other items, such as grooming supplies and preventive products. Your vet can help you decide which items best fit your dog’s needs.

Find the right Vet

It’s important to take your puppy to a vet within a couple of days of getting home. This appointment should be a general examination to make sure everything is A Ok. Also, it should also be to get some vaccines (in case you bought a dog that hasn’t been vaccinated). I suggest you find a vet before you bring your new puppy home. It is important that when choosing a vet you take into consideration, prices they charge, location and reputation. I suggest talking to family members and friends who have dogs (and if you’re Greek like me, family members without dogs will still give you their opinion). You can also look at online reviews. The first trip to the vet with your puppy be sure to bring all the paperwork provided by the breeder or adoption group. Your vet will do the examination and discuss the puppy vaccination schedule with you. Puppies need several core vaccinations, beginning at six weeks of age. Some vaccines require a booster within a year of the last dose in the initial vaccination.

Learn how to raise your puppy

All puppies need love and affection so its important to: 

1. Choose a healthy diet made specifically for puppies.
2. Begin house training from the moment your puppy comes home.
3. Begin at home, but start small.
4. Socialize your puppy well. Take your puppy lots of different places so it can experience sights, sounds, people, and pets that are new. However, be sure to only let your puppy meet healthy, vaccinated dogs.
5. Sign up for puppy training classes with a good trainer.
6. Establish an exercise routine
7. Stay on-schedule with puppy vet visits and vaccines.
8. Make time for bonding and play