Straightforward advice for new dog owners.
Spey or neuter your dog. This reduces the chances of unwanted pregnancies and cancer of the reproductive organs so we recommend it to pet owners who do not plan on breeding their pets.
Make sure your dog has a collar with ID tags and come and discuss microchipping with us. You must make sure your dog is microchipped by the time it’s 8 weeks old. You can be fined up to £500 if your dog isn’t microchipped. You can’t guarantee that your dog won’t ever leave your house or garden, whether by accident or by theft. The ID tags and microchip could be their only chance of getting home to you.
Bring your puppy to us for a thorough check up. Puppies need a number of vaccinations until they’re 16 weeks of age. We can help with all your questions regarding your puppy’s health and behaviour issues.
Come and discuss your puppy’s diet with us as it can vary by size and breed. Studies show between 25-40 percent of household pets are overweight, and pet obesity can lead to serious health issues. We can recommend a food to suit the individual needs of your puppy.
House training your puppy can be a time-consuming process but look for signs, such as circling, that your puppy has to go. Don’t punish him for soiling after the act. If you don’t catch him in the act then he won’t understand why you are correcting him five minutes or more after an incident.
Using a crate can help to provide your puppy with a secure, safe area where he can retreat when he’s tired. A crate is not to be used for discipline or punishment. We can help and advise you on how to introduce crate training with your puppy.
Training your puppy is one of the most important things you can do for your pet—and your family. Puppies need to learn boundaries and need to know you’re in charge.
Puppy proofing your home to keep your puppy away from anything that could potentially hurt him. Puppies love to chew, so it’s important to redirect them to their safe chew toys. Never leave young children unattended with your puppy, and teach them to touch your puppy gently.
We really recommend socialising your puppy, the more people they come into contact with, whether it’s in your home or out and about, the more comfortable and well behaved they will become.
Make sure you can travel your puppy safely in your car by using a crate or a dog seat belt harness.
