Microchip
A microchip is a way to identify your pet. The size of a grain of rice, it is injected under the animal’s skin by a veterinarian and is completely safe. If an animal rescue organization finds your pet, they can scan and read the microchip to identify them. You’ll no longer have to worry about your companion losing their tag.
Crate
A crate is a great tool for training your dog while keeping them safe. Choose one large enough to be used throughout your dog’s growth. Puppies love to explore and learn about their surroundings, but during their first months, they don’t yet know what is safe or dangerous. Use the crate when you’re busy, at night, or if you need to leave for a few hours. This will make your job easier and keep your puppy safe. Crate training also helps teach your dog where to relieve themselves. Puppies don’t like soiling their sleeping area, so they’ll prefer to do their business elsewhere, giving you the chance to take them outside as soon as they leave the crate. There are different ways to introduce a puppy to crate training. If you’re interested, do some research or talk to your veterinarian.
Pet Insurance
Get insurance for your pet. You can’t predict your puppy’s future, but they’ll likely get sick at some point and need care. Insurance will give you peace of mind if something serious happens. Today, many providers offer various programs. Our advice: shop for insurance even before bringing your puppy home.
Puppy Food
Just like young children, puppies need specialized food to support their growth. Their nutritional needs are twice as high as those of an adult dog. Puppies grow quickly and require food high in protein and vitamins, even in small portions. Since they use a lot of energy, they also need more calories!
Puppy Toys
Puppies love to play and learn through play. They explore the world with their eyes, but even more so with their mouth and nose. Teething can be painful or uncomfortable, so they love chewing on anything they can find. Make sure your puppy has safe toys. Rope toys are not ideal, as puppies can destroy and swallow them, potentially leading to an emergency vet visit. The same goes for soft toys that are easy to tear apart. “Kong” toys are often the best option. You can even fill them with food to make them more appealing. (Pro tip: if your puppy is struggling with teething, soak some food until it becomes a paste, fill a Kong with it, and freeze it. This will soothe their gums and keep them busy for a few minutes.)
Exercise
Puppies are full of energy, and they need to burn it off. Regular exercise will help your puppy feel better and stay tired by the end of the day, reducing destructive behaviours. It’s better to see them burn energy by playing with you or going for a walk than by chewing up your new shoes!
By Lise Benoit