Essential Tips for New Dog Owners: A Beginner's Guide

First Taboo: Bathing Your New Puppy Right Away

When pet owners first bring a new puppy into their home, it's common to notice that the little one might smell a bit unpleasant and look rather dirty. This prompts many to want to give their new furry friend a nice, refreshing bath. However, this is a mistake.

Puppies, especially when they're adjusting to a new environment, can be quite anxious. Their immune systems are also at a low point, making them susceptible to catching a cold or even more serious diseases like canine distemper. Therefore, it's best not to rush into giving your new puppy a fullbody bath. If you find the puppy too dirty, you can limit its play area or opt for a dry cleaning method instead.

Second Taboo: Feeding Your Puppy Meat and Milk

It's natural for pet owners to want to spoil their new pets with treats like meat and milk. However, this is not advisable. Puppies have delicate stomachs that can easily lead to vomiting and diarrhea, especially if their diet is not properly managed. Diarrhea can be particularly difficult to treat when a puppy's health is compromised. The safest option for a new puppy's diet is commercial puppy food and plain water.

It's always a good idea to inquire about the puppy's previous diet from its former owner or the pet store. Start with the same food and gradually introduce new types. This helps the puppy adjust more smoothly to its new diet.

Third Taboo: Not Using a Leash When Outdoors

Always remember to use a leash when taking your dog outside. This not only ensures the safety of others but also prevents your puppy from getting lost, fighting with other dogs, or being hit by a vehicle. Since you're still getting to know your new puppy's behavior, it's even more crucial to use a leash to avoid any unexpected incidents. Training your puppy to be comfortable with a leash from the start will help establish good habits.

Fourth Taboo: Rushing to Deworm Your Puppy

While deworming is essential for dogs, whether it's for external or internal parasites, it's not advisable to deworm a new puppy right away. It can cause further stress and potentially lead to illness or fear. For minor internal parasites, it's best to wait. If there are external parasites, isolate the puppy and consider keeping it in a cage. Use a flea collar to minimize stress.

Wait until the puppy has settled into its new home and is eating and sleeping well before deworming it.

What Else Do New Pet Owners Need to Prepare?

Before bringing a dog home, consider what type of dog you want and whether your living situation allows for it (for instance, large breeds are often prohibited in urban areas).

Essential Items for Dog Ownership:

Crates/Enclosures

Puppy Food and Food Bowls

Portable Crate

Dog Bed or尿垫

Toys

Blankets/Towels

Identification Tags

Leashes

Collars

AntiDestructive Fencing

Comb

Nail Clippers

Wet Wipes

Brushes

Each item serves a specific purpose, from providing a safe space for your puppy to a tool for grooming and maintaining its health. As a new pet owner, being prepared with these essentials will help ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry family member.