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1. Create a Safe Space
- We always recommend both a crate and a playpen to give your puppy a designated safe space. This helps them settle into their new home while also keeping them secure. Crate covers or a soft blanket can help create a den-like atmosphere, making your puppy feel more secure and comfortable. Keep in mind, introducing the crate to a new environment should be done gradually. It’s important to make this a positive, fun experience for your puppy. Patience is key, and with the right approach, they will soon see their crate as a safe haven. For more tips on crate training, we’ve provided additional advice to guide you through the process.
- Make sure the safe space is in an area where your puppy can rest comfortably. Puppies need a lot of sleep during their early months, so it's important they have a quiet, peaceful area to relax without disturbances.
2. Essential Items
- Food and Water Bowls: Choose sturdy, non-slip bowls to prevent tipping.
- Puppy Food: Your puppy will come with a two-week supply of Wellness Core Puppy Food—a high-quality, balanced food designed for growth. It might be worth purchasing an additional bag to have on hand. If you wish to switch to a different brand, please do so gradually, and not within the first few weeks, to avoid upsetting your puppy’s tummy.
- Bedding: Provide a soft, washable bed for comfort and rest.
- Toys: We provide a Kong-type slow feeder and a heartbeat lamb toy in your puppy pack. The heartbeat lamb toy has been a favourite for many families, as it helps soothe your puppy in the early days. It’s definitely the one toy that all our families rave about. Additionally, consider having a variety of chew toys, puzzle toys, and comfort toys to keep your puppy entertained and stimulated.
- Harness, Collar, Lead, and ID Tag: It is UK law for dogs to wear a collar and ID tag. The ID tag must include your puppy's name, your address, and your contact number for safety.
- Grooming Supplies: Include a comb, slicker brush, as well as a brush, puppy shampoo, nail clippers, and a toothbrush to start establishing a grooming routine.
- Suitable Pet Carrier for the Journey Home
A secure pet carrier is required for transporting your puppy safely home. It’s not only a legal requirement in the UK for puppies and adult dogs to be secure during travel, but it also ensures your puppy’s safety and comfort during their journey. In the UK, the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) law states that it is a legal requirement for all dogs to be safely secured when being transported in a vehicle. This is in line with The Highway Code and regulations regarding the transportation of animals in cars. The law requires that dogs are either:
- In a pet carrier or crate that is properly secured.
- On a lead or harness, attached to a seatbelt or other restraint system designed for dogs.
3. Prepare for Training
- Puppy Pads: Puppy pads are very helpful in the initial days for toilet training, especially if you're unable to get outside straight away. They provide a designated spot for your puppy to relieve themselves while they are still learning where to go.
- Clicker Training: Using a clicker can be an effective training tool. It provides a clear and consistent way to mark desirable behaviour with a distinct sound, making it easier for your puppy to understand what's expected. Benefits of using a clicker:
- Clear communication: The click sound immediately tells your puppy they've done something right.
- Positive reinforcement: It encourages your puppy to repeat the behaviour as they associate the click with rewards.
- Faster learning: Puppies learn more quickly with consistent, immediate feedback.
- Puppy Treats: We provide a small supply of treats in the puppy pack, but you can always buy more. Just stick to one brand to avoid upsetting their tummy. Treats are perfect for reinforcing positive behaviour during training.
- Training Resources: For basic training techniques, consider exploring these helpful resources:
1. PDSA (People's Dispensary for Sick Animals)
- Website: www.pdsa.org.uk
- PDSA offers a wide range of advice on dog care, including training tips, house training, and problem behaviour. Their resources are free and designed to help pet owners build strong relationships with their pets.
2. The Kennel Club (KC) – Puppy Training
- Website: www.thekennelclub.org.uk
- The Kennel Club is one of the UK's leading authorities on dog care and training. They offer a range of advice on puppy training, including socialisation, basic commands, and house training.
3. Dogs Trust – Training & Behaviour
- Website: www.dogstrust.org.uk
- Dogs Trust offers useful training guides and tips, including information on puppy training classes and behaviour problem-solving. Their resources are designed by dog behaviour experts.
4. RSPCA – Training Your Puppy
- Website: www.rspca.org.uk
- The RSPCA provides comprehensive guides on puppy training, from socialising your puppy to teaching basic commands and addressing behaviour issues. They also highlight the importance of positive reinforcement.
4. Arrange a Vet Visit
At Larchfield Cavapoos, we prioritise your puppy's health and well-being. We conduct a thorough vet check ourselves, and a copy of the report will be included in the documentation you receive when you collect your puppy. Your puppy will already be microchipped and have received their first vaccination, which includes the Nobivac Lepto 4 DHP.
You will be informed of the date when the second vaccination is due. With the new Lepto 4 vaccination, the second dose must be administered exactly 4 weeks after the first. We book our appointments well in advance to give you plenty of notice, but it's essential that you ensure you have enough time to book your own appointment for this second vaccination.
We also provide a detailed, itemised schedule of all treatments your puppy has received, which you can take to your vet for their records.
For your peace of mind, we recommend arranging a first visit with your vet within 14 days of bringing your puppy home, regardless of when the second vaccination is due. While we are confident in the thorough checks done by our vet, this visit gives you the opportunity to establish a relationship with your own vet and ensure your puppy’s continued health and care in their new environment.
6. Plan for Socialisation
Socialisation is key to raising a well-adjusted, confident puppy. While your puppy is waiting to complete their vaccinations, there are still plenty of ways to help them get used to new experiences and environments safely. Here are some things you can start doing even before you can take them outside:
- Introduce the Harness: Begin by letting your puppy get used to wearing a harness or collar. You can do this at home, allowing them to associate it with positive experiences like playtime or treats.
- Lead Walking in the Garden: You can also begin practising lead walking in the safety of your garden. This helps your puppy become familiar with walking on a leash without being overwhelmed by external stimuli. Gradually encourage them to walk with you for short distances, praising them for staying close.
- Puppy Sling for Visits: Investing in a puppy sling or carrier is a fantastic way to expose your puppy to new environments while keeping them safe. You can take them on short trips in the car or visit outdoor spaces, allowing them to see and hear new things without direct contact with other animals.
- Introduce New Sounds and Sights: At home, play different sounds at a low volume to get your puppy used to common noises like the vacuum cleaner, hairdryer, or car engines. Additionally, introduce new sights by allowing them to explore various textures like grass, tiles, and carpets to get them accustomed to different surfaces.
- Meet Other Vaccinated Puppies: Once your vet approves, organise safe playdates with other fully vaccinated puppies. This helps your puppy learn appropriate play behaviour and build social skills with other dogs.
Remember, early exposure to new experiences in a calm and controlled way helps your puppy grow into a confident, well-rounded adult dog!
7. Establish a Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to raising a well-behaved and happy puppy. Puppies are quick learners, and having a structured routine will help them feel secure, learn faster, and adjust to their new home with ease. Here’s how you can establish a routine that suits both you and your puppy:
- Feeding Schedule: Just like with us, puppies thrive on routine when it comes to feeding. For an 8-week old puppy, we recommend feeding 3 meals a day. At Larchfield Cavapoos, we start this routine and ensure your puppy is used to regular meal times. We feed our puppies at approximately 8am, 12pm, and 5pm. You should continue with a similar schedule at home to maintain consistency. It’s quite normal for puppies to not eat the recommended daily allowance during the first few days or even weeks as they settle into their new environment. Moving to a new home can be overwhelming, and some puppies may experience a temporary loss of appetite due to stress or excitement. If your puppy is not eating as much as expected, don't worry — they will gradually adjust. Be sure to offer food at regular intervals and encourage eating, but avoid forcing them to eat. Always monitor their weight and behaviour, and if you have any concerns, reach out to your vet for advice. The insurance we offer gives a free video consultation with a vet, but I'm hear to support every step of the way.
- Play Time: Puppies need to play to release energy and develop physically. Aim for several short play sessions throughout the day. Interactive toys like Kongs, balls, and chew toys are ideal for these sessions. Play is not just for fun; it also helps with mental stimulation and bonding.
- Nap Time: Puppies require a lot of sleep to grow and develop. Generally, they will need to nap between play and training sessions. Ensure your puppy has a safe, comfortable space to rest during the day. On average, puppies this age need 18-20 hours of sleep a day, with short bursts of activity in between.
- Training and Socialisation: Start basic training right away. Short training sessions (5-10 minutes) are perfect for young puppies. Work on simple commands such as “sit,” “come,” and “stay.” Positive reinforcement with treats and praise works best at this stage. Incorporating socialisation into your daily routine will also help your puppy develop into a well-rounded dog.
- Toilet Breaks: At 8 weeks old, puppies have limited bladder control. Plan for toilet breaks after meals, play sessions, and naps. Frequent potty breaks are essential for housetraining. Taking your puppy to the same spot each time will help them associate it with going to the toilet. The time it takes to fully toilet train a puppy can vary depending on the individual puppy, your consistency, and how much effort is put into the process. Generally, most puppies will take anywhere from 4 to 6 months to be reliably toilet trained, though some may take longer, and some may catch on quicker.
By preparing in advance, you'll create a loving and organised environment that will help your new puppy feel at ease, and allow them to thrive as a happy and healthy member of your family. At Larchfield Cavapoos, we’re always here to offer advice and support along the way!