Don’t even say the word “WALKIES!” until your puppy is 14-16 weeks old. Lap up all the cute baby cuddly time and play time until then. And you can of course start training straight away.
SIT! STAY! COME! PAW! – and maybe the most useful command… NO! You’ll be surprised how quickly your new pup will learn these simple commands – especially if you have treats in your pockets and praise them like mad. A clicker is a fabulous puppy training tool too.
The clicker principle is simple but effective positive reinforcement training method. Give a command and the very second the command is met, click and treat. This way puppy associates the sound of the of the click not only with doing the right thing, but getting something yummy.
The clicker creates an incentive to obey Mutt Mama or Pooch Papa.
Finding their feet
Of course when they’re not indulging their curiosity about their new surroundings, puppies sleep. A lot. But there is so much to do when baby isn’t sleeping that you definitely won’t be bored while you wait to get out there to explore the great outdoors together.
Lots of things need to be in place. For good reason. You want to build a happy and healthy companion and avoid illnesses such as canine distemper and canine parvovirus for starters. Baby dog needs to be vaccinated by your vet.
A series of vaccinations is required and they need time in your dog’s body to become effective and the timing may vary depending on the vaccination. 16 weeks is generally the maximum period of time before you can be sure of puppy’s immunity to nasty diseases.
Puppy prep
So you’ve got the vaccinations done. You’ve probably bought beautiful new cosy, fluffy bedding for puppy. Lots of toys for playtime. And a collar and lead.
Ahhh the collar… It won’t take 16 weeks to get used to – but it might take 16 days!
Many puppies hate it when you first put it on, so you’ll have to be patient. The sooner you start the better as it will be easier for them to get used to wearing it all the time.
Make sure the collar is the right size and not too tight and uncomfortable. You should be able to fit your two fingers between the collar and your dog.
Remember, all good behaviour should be praised and rewarded, so if puppy isn’t trying to scratch the collar off - praise them.
The great day dawns
16 weeks is up – and it’s teaming down with rain… With all that preparation, did it even cross your mind to buy a puppy coat?
Why not consider getting them a coat from Drywalks? And why not get a coat to match for yourself?
Then you can step out together in any weather!