Before you bring your new puppy home to your house, it's important that you make sure you are adequately prepared for her. There are various things a young dog needs to grow up healthy and happy, and it's best to have these prepared and waiting when she arrives.
To begin with, you should remember that puppies – especially if they are very young – are inquisitive and exploratory. They enjoy rooting around and chewing and can be very destructive. Prepare your home by removing toxic items like cleaning fluids, and by placing things like fragile ornaments and plants that won't stand up to puppy play out of reach.
If you have young children, it's a good idea to introduce them to looking after the new pet in an interesting way. You might want to deal with things like dog grooming and caring games rewards systems or star charts. Above all, it's important to show the child that the puppy isn't a toy, but a live creature, and that it needs to be respected and nurtured accordingly.
Finally, you should make sure that your new puppy has her own set of possessions. A bed is an important item and should come to anchor the dog's presence in the home. Water and food bowls, brushes and vitamin supplements will also be necessary, and it makes sense to have these ready before the new addition to the household arrives.
In short, a new puppy comes with a whole range of responsibilities, and it's important that you understand this on purchasing one. It will be necessary to alter your home environment in order to accommodate a new dog, and it's best to get things ready for her before she is introduced into the household.
