If
you are puchasing a puppy from a breeder, the pup should have its first series
of vaccinations before you take it home.
Play
with your puppy as often as possible, but don't teach aggressiveness by
teasing. An excellent publication, DOG PERFECT by Sarah Hodgson, is great
reading for the new and old dog owner alike. A must read for the proper
socialization of companion dogs.
Crate
train your puppy. Most dogs feel very comfortable with being confined to a
crate for short periods of time. This is an asset, for example, when your pup
is a chewer and can't be left alone in the house while you run an errand.
Don't
paper train your pup. If you do, it may never learn to relieve itself
outdoors. From day one in its new home, take it out shortly after each meal
and a couple of times in between.
It
is not uncommon for young pups to have worms, ear mites, and/or fleas. Your
vet will check it for all these parasites during your first visit. Take
special notice of its ears because ear problems not tended to early may plague
your dog for its entire life.
Young
pups have very sharp toenails and it would be a good idea to get it started
early with nail clipping.
Before
the pup is 3 months old, seek out a reputable groomer and talk about what type
of grooming is required for the breed. Even though your pup is a mixed breed,
it may require clipping at some point in time and should be introduced to the
procedure.
Your
pup should have its 2nd vaccinations by 3 months of age, so it should be ready
to make its first trip to the groomer. Try to pre-arrange a short visit for
the first time groom.
Try
not to be too anxious about leaving your pet to be groomed. It will sense your
anxiety and won't be able to focus on what it is about to experience and
learn.
Don't
return to the grooming shop before your pet is finished. Wait until you are
sure the dog is ready and waiting for you. Premature arrival causes a great
deal of stress for both groomer and groomee and, it some cases, the dog cannot
be finished because it is excited about the return of its master.