Puppies are undeniably adorable! They quickly become cherished members of your family. Recently, we welcomed a new Chocolate Labrador puppy into our home after two years of searching following the loss of our beloved Chocolate and Blonde labs. Though I hesitated at first, with two young kids and the challenges of training, the timing felt right, and the kids were ready for the responsibility.
Here’s What We’ve Learned About Getting a Puppy:
Choosing the Right Breeder or Adoption Agency
- Ensure you get your puppy from a reputable breeder or adoption center.
- Research thoroughly and ask for references.
- If possible, visit their facility, see the puppies and meet the puppy’s parents to gauge their temperament, if they're a breeder.
Preparing for Walks
- Puppies under 12 weeks old aren’t ready for long walks or harsh cold weather. Begin with short, gentle walks and gradually extend the distance as they grow. Make sure to wait until they’ve completed their initial vaccinations before venturing out.
- Introduce them to walking on a leash early, focusing on no pulling.
- Trips to dog-friendly stores can also provide exercise and socialization, especially on those cold Minnesota days.
Potty Training
- Take your puppy outside every 20-30 minutes, especially after eating or waking up from a sleep.
- Supervise them to prevent accidents and reward them for going in the right spot.
- Accidents will happen; patience is key. It can take up to a year for puppies to be fully potty trained.
Basic Training
- Start with short sessions (2-5 minutes) 2-4 times a day. Use a reward like their kibble or a special treat (small pieces)
- Begin with simple commands like “sit” and “down.”. Other commands include "paw", "off", "focus", "touch".
- Professional training classes are often available starting at 10 weeks old. Check with your local dog stores/friends for recommendations.
Managing Biting and Teething
- Puppies have sharp teeth and will chew on anything they can.
- Provide appropriate chew toys and avoid overly hard options that could damage their teeth.
- Be patient; biting is their way of exploring.
- Protect your shoes and clothes from their curious mouths.
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Crate Training
- Crate training helps manage nighttime potty breaks and provides a safe space for your puppy.
- It can also give them a break from kids and help with house training.
Socialization
- Puppies need to interact with other dogs to learn proper behavior.
- Introduce your puppy to new environments, sounds, and experiences, like car rides and visits to different places.
- Central Bark in Oakdale offers free puppy hour on Saturdays, which can help with socialization.
Veterinary Care
- Schedule a vet visit within the first two weeks of bringing your puppy home to ensure they’re healthy and up to date on vaccinations.
- Microchip your puppy to help reunite with them if they get lost. Some vets recommend doing this during spaying or neutering.
- Consider dog trackers for collars for additional safety.
Pet Insurance
- Pet insurance can be helpful but requires research. Some plans include wellness checks, while others don’t.
- Check if your employer or memberships like Costco offer discounts on pet insurance.
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Community Support and Lost Pets
- Check with your city or town to see if a dog license is required. For example, City of Woodbury, Cottage Grove, St. Paul Park, Newport, and Hastings require dog licenses. However, City of Stillwater and Oakdale do not, though dogs must still be up-to-date on their vaccinations.
- In case of a lost dog, many neighborhoods have active Facebook groups and dedicated organizations like Lost K9 and The Retrievers to help reunite families with their pets.
It’s Been a Year! Luna, Where are You?
This article is dedicated to Luna, a 6-month-old White Golden Retriever puppy who went missing from Lake Elmo, MN, on January 26th, 2024. It has now been a year since Luna disappeared, and she remains in the hearts and prayers of many. If you have any information about her whereabouts, please contact the number on the flyer, Lost K9 or Luna Strong. Anonymous tips are welcome.
 Credit:Luna Strong |
Organizations like Lost K9 and The Retrievers work tirelessly to reunite families with their beloved pets, and any information could make a difference.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a puppy into your home is a long-term commitment and an emotional roller coaster. Despite the challenges, the bond you form will be deeply rewarding. Every dog is unique, so do your research to find the best fit for your family. Remember, your puppy will be your best friend forever.
This article is for informational purposes only and reflects personal experience.
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