Even though they're incredibly cute and cuddly, puppies often require more time and work than new owners might realize. Without plenty of patience and proper training, getting a new puppy can be quite overwhelming. Providing the right care, attention and space for your pup are just some of the important things to take into account as a new owner. Thanks to the experts at Canine Fence Company.com, here are the top 10 things that new owners should know about getting a puppy!


Matt Cardy, Getty Images
Matt Cardy, Getty Images
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Training is essential for young puppies. Don't just yell at your puppy when you see her doing something wrong. Correct these unwanted behaviors by using positive reinforcement for your puppy's good behaviors. General training can begin with house training or crate training, then branched out to commands like sit and stay as the puppy advances.



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Getty Images
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Puppies require several visits to the veterinarian. It's important that your puppy gets the appropriate vaccinations every few weeks until he or she is about 16 weeks old. Puppies should be spayed, neutered and micro-chipped at a young age. Puppies are also susceptible to conditions such as worms and gastrointestinal problems for which your veterinarian can provide the proper treatment. The vet also issues helpful tips and beneficial information regarding your particular puppy's diet and overall health.


 

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Practice patience and positivity. After all, a puppy has only been on the planet for a few weeks. Be prepared for continuous supervision and lots of repetition! Continuing to reward your puppy's good behavior and giving your dog the healthy attention he needs means that you must be tolerant enough to allow your puppy time to learn his role as part of the family and as a well-behaved dog.

 

 


Flickr user Giantvermin
Flickr user Giantvermin
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Be prepared to devote lots of time to the new puppy. Besides the fact that puppies need playtime and plenty of exercise, they generally eat 3-4 times per day, and need to "do their business" approximately every 3-6 hours. Therefore, it is best to allot for this time for your pet's health and to properly house train your pet.

 

 


Oli Scarff, Getty Images
Oli Scarff, Getty Images
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Educate yourself! Although dogs have their own personalities, new owners should research their puppy's breed in depth to understand their specific dog's needs and tendencies. Dogs have evolved so that different breeds are stronger, slower, shorter, etc. and as a result, certain breeds are more likely than others to have distinct health concerns. Similarly, some breeds are more social than others, more active, more yappy, or lazier than others - which should all alter how you "raise" your pup.


Alex Wong, Getty Images
Alex Wong, Getty Images
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Puppies need early socialization (with people and with other pets). Introduce your puppy to new experiences and new people as often as possible. She should understand that in moderation - new people, new sounds, items, and more - are no big deal.  Remember that before bringing the puppy to dog parks and before letting the dog walk the floors of pet stores, she should be fully vaccinated first.


Flickr user jimw
Flickr user jimw
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Don't give your puppy too much room too soon. Section off a small room like a bathroom or kitchen that your puppy can temporarily use, or use a crate when you cannot supervise your puppy. Unless you don't mind naughty behavior and frequent messes, allowing your puppy to freely roam the house is a recipe for disaster. It's simple - if you don't want your puppy to ruin your favorite rug, he shouldn't be allowed in the room.


Are you a dog lover? What advice would you offer to new puppy owners? Make sure you check out our friends over at Canine Fence Company for all your puppy and dog training needs.

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