by Terry Baldwin

Created on: September 30, 2009

Getting a new puppy is always so exciting. Sometimes too exciting to think how the puppy is going to change our daily routines. We already know it is going to change our lives, but how about day to day life? Well, lets start with a daily schedule.

A puppy needs to be house trained, so the outings need to be regularly spaced in time. The first one, very early in the morning (it is still dark outside) and the last one very late at night. You may be a night or a morning person, but most likely not both. Be prepared to get tired after a while. Designate an aera of the house where your puppy will be spending most of his time. Do not let your puppy to roam around the house too much during training. House training might not always go smoothly. There might be accidents. Have a roll of paper towels and a carpet cleaner handy.

A puppy needs a place to sleep. No, it is not supposed to be your bed. If you train a puppy to sleep in your bed, he will never stop sleeping there. It is best to get your puppy his own doggie bed, or better yet, put him in his crate (if you use it). There will be lots of whining and whimpering pretty much all night. Be prepared to lose some zzz.

A puppy needs his own water and food dish. Clean his bowls often and remember to fill them up.

A puppy needs to be groomed. Giving a puppy a bath is lots of fun. Prepare to get wet. After the bath have all the grooming tools ready. To keep your puppy standing up tie his lead to a pole, high enough so he can't lie down. Blow dry while brushing, clean ears, and trim nails.

A puppy needs to chew. Give him a raw hide bone or you may end up with only one shoe. He may still chew some things he is not supposed to. That's his nature.

A puppy needs to play indoors and out. Get some toys to keep him occupied at home. Take him for walks every day.

Train your puppy or he will train you. Obedience training is fun and it will make your relationship better.

A puppy needs a place to stay while you go away for a longer time. You will have to start planning your vacations ahead of time.

Your life will change forever, but it will be a change for the better.

Learn more about this author, Terry Baldwin.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.