Crate Training, Shopping List, Grooming & Care
Below are a combination of links both imbedded in the text (blue writing) and each picture is linked to the specific product on Amazon. By no means do you have to buy everthing on this shopping list, it is simply here as a resource to access as you please. I have also linked different videos and infomation pages to fill in the blanks on how to do some of the suggested puppy care. I am not being endorsed for any of this, it is simply a landing page for families as they try to set up their lives to introduce puppy. Happy shopping!
Purchasing a Crate & Crate Training
When purchasing a crate you want your puppy to be able to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably but not necessarily walk to the back corner and mess. Buying a crate that will fit your puppy from early on to adulthood is important, however, you don't want a crate that will be larger than needed. I recommend a 30” crate with a divider, that way you can adjust the space as your puppy grows.
If you are wanting to create an enclosed space for puppy to be when the crate door is open but yet have access to a safe enclosed area you may also choose a puppy fence to attach to your crate.
Note: for crate training, you should be using a wire crate as shown. Plastic/fabric carriers are for travelling.
Unless you are an experienced dog owner who has a different training method that works for you, crate training is the best way to go.
Cesar Millan, if you haven't already heard of him, is the guru to dog training on all levels. Any material produced by him is generally useful, practical, and easy enough to implement. Also there are many other free resources available online.
Below is a PDF I’ve created to support families with training. Just click the link and download or print!
When purchasing a crate you want your puppy to be able to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably but not necessarily walk to the back corner and mess. Buying a crate that will fit your puppy from early on to adulthood is important, however, you don't want a crate that will be larger than needed. I recommend a 30” crate with a divider, that way you can adjust the space as your puppy grows.
If you are wanting to create an enclosed space for puppy to be when the crate door is open but yet have access to a safe enclosed area you may also choose a puppy fence to attach to your crate.
Note: for crate training, you should be using a wire crate as shown. Plastic/fabric carriers are for travelling.
Unless you are an experienced dog owner who has a different training method that works for you, crate training is the best way to go.
Cesar Millan, if you haven't already heard of him, is the guru to dog training on all levels. Any material produced by him is generally useful, practical, and easy enough to implement. Also there are many other free resources available online.
Below is a PDF I’ve created to support families with training. Just click the link and download or print!
| rebecca’s_tips_for_crate_training.pdf |
Grooming
In terms of going to the groomer, it really is an owners choice around the frequency. My suggestion would be to locate a groomer in your area that you feel comfortable with and discuss a plan with them. Knowing your breed type they should be able to establish a comfortable routine. You can have your dog’s nail trimming incorporated into these visits.
Leading up to that point you may want to just keep an eye on some key parts. These are: Trimming Puppy’s Eyes, Trimming Puppy’s Bottom, Trimming Puppy’s Nails, and Cleaning Ears (I use mineral oil or ear cleaner).
Bathing: Over-bathing can cause puppy to have dry skin. In terms of a bathing routine the longer you can go the better. Some families are more comfortable with every 3 weeks while others are okay with every 4-6 weeks. Obviously, if the puppy gets into something and needs a bath, don’t hesitate to put them in the tub. Make bath time efficient, have things organized and ready, the less time in the bath the better. Water should be warm but dogs don’t like heat as much as we do. A gentle sprayer works best for soaking and rinsing, but if you have to have water in the tub just keep it low so your pooch doesn’t feel like he/she is floating. Wash the whole body but stay back a bit from the eyes and mouth. Staying happy and calm is important to make bath time a good experience.
We use Mane ‘n Tail and Body Shampoo, you can buy the conditioner if you wish but I think the shampoo is sufficient.
In terms of going to the groomer, it really is an owners choice around the frequency. My suggestion would be to locate a groomer in your area that you feel comfortable with and discuss a plan with them. Knowing your breed type they should be able to establish a comfortable routine. You can have your dog’s nail trimming incorporated into these visits.
Leading up to that point you may want to just keep an eye on some key parts. These are: Trimming Puppy’s Eyes, Trimming Puppy’s Bottom, Trimming Puppy’s Nails, and Cleaning Ears (I use mineral oil or ear cleaner).
Bathing: Over-bathing can cause puppy to have dry skin. In terms of a bathing routine the longer you can go the better. Some families are more comfortable with every 3 weeks while others are okay with every 4-6 weeks. Obviously, if the puppy gets into something and needs a bath, don’t hesitate to put them in the tub. Make bath time efficient, have things organized and ready, the less time in the bath the better. Water should be warm but dogs don’t like heat as much as we do. A gentle sprayer works best for soaking and rinsing, but if you have to have water in the tub just keep it low so your pooch doesn’t feel like he/she is floating. Wash the whole body but stay back a bit from the eyes and mouth. Staying happy and calm is important to make bath time a good experience.
We use Mane ‘n Tail and Body Shampoo, you can buy the conditioner if you wish but I think the shampoo is sufficient.
Brushing: A simple 2-Sided Brush (a pin and bristle brush) is one of the best brushes for grooming your puppy. The metal side can be used for getting out minor tangles, while the soft side will smooth and style the coat to keep it soft and shiny while removing loose debris. You may wish to brush your puppy 2 -3 times a week to keep their coat soft and free of tangles.
Dental Care
Teeth Brushing: Brushing your puppy's teeth between the ages of eight and sixteen weeks is important and it will make the job easier when he/she is an adult. I suggest starting with a Puppy Finger Toothbrush and brushing 2-3 times a week. You can transition to an actual handheld toothbrush of your choice when you feel you are ready. If you haven’t done so by 16 weeks then go ahead and make the transition at that time. Although many sites recommend starting with a tasty toothpaste, I ask you to hold off for at least 2 weeks after bringing puppy home (again, to ensure no dietary disrupts occur). Remember, your puppies hard kibble and chew toys are helping keep their teeth clean as well.
Additional info/instructions: How to Brush Your Puppies Teeth
Treats for teeth brushing (for 6 months of age) Greenies
Teeth Brushing: Brushing your puppy's teeth between the ages of eight and sixteen weeks is important and it will make the job easier when he/she is an adult. I suggest starting with a Puppy Finger Toothbrush and brushing 2-3 times a week. You can transition to an actual handheld toothbrush of your choice when you feel you are ready. If you haven’t done so by 16 weeks then go ahead and make the transition at that time. Although many sites recommend starting with a tasty toothpaste, I ask you to hold off for at least 2 weeks after bringing puppy home (again, to ensure no dietary disrupts occur). Remember, your puppies hard kibble and chew toys are helping keep their teeth clean as well.
Additional info/instructions: How to Brush Your Puppies Teeth
Treats for teeth brushing (for 6 months of age) Greenies
Helpful Toys & Accessories
Snuggle Toy with Heartbeat (helpful for in crate)
Snuggle Toy with Heartbeat (helpful for in crate)
Harness
