Dog Care and Obedience Training

First Days and Nights. Remember that your new puppy knows only a life of romping with his littermates and the security of being with his mother, and that coming into your home is a new and sometimes frightening experience for him.

It is the best to bring him into your home in the daytime, the earlier the better. This will give him a chance to become at least partially acquainted with his new surroundings before facing the ordeal of the first night away from his family. Almost all puppies are of an inquisitive nature and your puppy will want to look around and explore things. Let him look into every nook and cranny. Show him that he is welcome and has nothing to fear. Be sure that there is nothing with which he can harm himself. Be sure that all lamp cords are out of his reach and there is nothing that he can tip or pull over. Check furniture that he might get stuck under or behind and objects that he might chew. If there are small children in the family be sure that they do not abuse him to play roughly with him. A puppy plays hard, but he also requires frequent periods of rest.

The puppy's first night at home is likely to be disturbing to the family. Keep in mind that suddenly being away from his mother, brothers, and sisters is new experience for him, he may be confused and frightened. If you want him to sleep in your room he probably will be quiet all night, reassured by your presence. If left in a room by himself he will cry an howl. Though provided with a warm, comfortable corner of their own, most puppies do not consider that this makes up for the absence of mother and littermates, and they strongly protest for the first few nights. A wrapped hot water bottle and a loudly ticking clock, as well as his toys, may persuade the puppy that he has not been abandoned. After a few nights alone he will adjust.

Complete list of books for dog care