Owning a dog is a big responsibility, but it pays dividends in love, loyalty, protection and companionship for people of all ages! As you get to know your new puppy, remember that he is a baby. Like all babies, he will need a lot of guidance, sleep, a place to retreat for security, the correct diet, veterinary care and a lot of loving attention from you.

At Petland, we train our people to help you in selecting and caring for a puppy that will suit you and your family. Do you want a male or a female? One puppy or two? Do you want a small or large dog? Like people, puppies come in a variety of personalities and sizes. Your own disposition, your personal taste and your living arrangements will determine what sort of dog is best for you. Your pet counsellor will help you in reaching this important and exciting decision!

To provide a happy, healthy atmosphere for your puppy, Petland recommends the following necessary and fun accessories. We have listed them as your puppy’s four basic needs: Nutritional, Environmental, Maintenance and Behavioural. When these needs are met, along with a loving environment provided by you, your puppy will be a member of your family for years to come!

ENVIRONMENTAL

Kennel – Dogs are den animals, and because of this they find comfort and security in a cozy kennel. Kennel training is also a quick and effective method to house-train your puppy. Ask a pet counsellor for more information and pick up our brochure, Give Your Dog a Den.

Bed/Lounger – Giving your puppy his own bed to sleep in, will help to train him to stay off the furniture or your own bed. It is not as drafty as sleeping on the floor and much cosier too.

NUTRITIONAL

Puppy Food –  A puppy’s digestive system can be delicate and not respond well to a sudden change in food, resulting in stomach upset and diarrhea. Ask your pet counsellor how much food you should be offering your puppy and at what times of the day you should feed him. Offer fresh water at all times.

High-Calorie Supplement – Some smaller breeds of puppies or finicky eaters may need this supplement to encourage weight gain. It is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.

Skin and Coat Supplement – This supplement is added to their food to develop and maintain a healthy coat and to noticeably reduce shedding!

MAINTENANCE

Nail Clippers and Coagulant – You must clip your puppy’s nails regularly throughout his life. To feel more comfortable, your pet counsellor will show you the proper method to cut his nails. You must take care not to over trim or cut into blood vessels running through each nail. Should this happen, have a blood coagulant waiting and ready to use.

Puppy Shampoo – How often do you bathe your puppy? As often as necessary! Always use a puppy shampoo and when he is grown, a dog shampoo. We do not recommend people shampoos, as they have a pH difference from puppy shampoos. They often cause skin irritations and dull coats. Pet hair conditioners work wonders with reducing tangles and add a wonderful scent to the coat!

Brush and Comb –  The use of a rubber brush or glove for short-haired puppies works well. Medium to long-haired puppies should be groomed with both a slicker brush and stainless steel combs. For long hair, a de-matting tool is essential. Ask your pet counsellor which brushes and combs are right for your puppy.

Bowls – Choose bowls that are easy to clean and hard to knock over. Ceramic or stainless steel work best, especially for moist foods, as plastic dishes tend to trap odours. Double diners, that have removable dishes, are very convenient. For larger breed puppies and dogs, there are feeding dishes with adjustable levels, so they may eat in comfort!

Leash, Collar and Identification – The best way to ensure your puppy’s safety, is to have it identified with a microchip or tattoo. This is usually done when they get altered at around six months old. You can make engraved identification tags at Petland stores and attach it to his collar. A puppy collar is one that you can adjust as they get older. Some pet owners choose to use a harness. If your puppy is more than a little exuberant, a harness will provide more security than a collar. Leashes are available in many colours and materials. Extendible leads are available that are light weight and easy to use. They allow you to shorten or extend the leash at the push of a button!

Puppy Drops or Spray – Sometimes it’s difficult to know where to go! There are so many smells and lots of choice spots to go in! Make it easier for you and your puppy by using puppy drops,  spray or housebreaking pads. These pheromone-based products encourage your puppy to “go potty” in the place you have marked outdoors, making housebreaking easier by using his natural instinct. A Pee Post™ also works well to attract puppies to pee in one spot.

Stain and Odour Remover – Yes, your puppy will have an accident or two. Having an effective stain and odour remover, specifically for pet stains and odours, will help stop him from returning to the soiled area. Household remedies, such as vinegar, just won’t work!

BEHAVIOURAL

Treats – Treats play an important part in your puppy’s day-to-day routine. Treats reinforce good behaviour and work as a training aid. Best of all, they’re a tasty break to look forward to!

Toys – All puppies have a natural tendency to chew. It provides exercise, relieves tension and cleans their teeth. You should offer your puppy a variety of chew toys (one of each: soft, medium, and hard materials) made especially for puppies. Rotate his toys regularly, so he does not get bored and offer him new ones often.

Repellent/Bitter Apple – If your puppy develops a taste for the coffee table leg or garbage left by the door, use a repellent to deter these bad habits from developing.

Books – Petland has many excellent books on dog care and dog breeds. Your pet counsellor can help you select a book that will best suit your needs. A good book will have tips on behaviour and give you helpful information on care requirements.

Please ask your pet counsellor what other items pertain to your particular pet’s needs.

*Ask about the volunteer programs at your nearest Petland location.

Cleanliness and Safety

All pets must be kept in a clean environment to avoid the spread of dirt and contaminants to yourself and others. Always keep your pet’s home clean, and wash your hands before and after handling your pet or cleaning his home.

Please remember that all pets may bite or scratch, and may transmit diseases to humans. Young children, infants, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems and the elderly are at greater risk of infections and should use caution when in contact with pets or their homes.

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