Advice for the new puppy buyers

NYC Animal Shelter & Behavioral Center
Educational support information
Advice for the New Puppy Owner
We know you'll love your puppy and do your very best to keep him happy and healthy, so here is an easy to follow guide to take good care of him. Remember; he only has you to depend upon.
1. Very important -- keep your puppy on a feeding schedule, feeding him the same meals at the same time everyday. Let's say you feed him at 7:00 AM, then again at 12:00 noon and again at 4:00 PM, make sure he has fresh water all day and after each meal. As your puppy gets older, you can reduce the meals to twice a day; and please keep in mind, no snacks. Also, make sure the puppy does not have any vigorous exercise before or after meals (never over-exercise him).
2. Remember that he's only a baby and although play is important, sleep is just as important. Never startle a dog while they are sleeping.
3. A puppy relieves himself when he wakes up, after he plays and after he eats so be sure to keep his area clean (whether paper-training or outdoor training), this prevents parasites and disease and ensures a happy, healthy puppy. He probably relieves himself away from his bed, so make sure there is paper in that spot. If you are consistent in your training, then everything will go smoothly.
4. Never allow canned dog food (and it should be puppy food) to stand more than five minutes as it gets rancid, it's unhealthy and creates bad eating habits.
5. If your puppy cries excessively all night or day and you can't soothe him, call your vet or Emergency Animal Hospital for assistance. If his temperature has to be taken, the normal range is 101 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Make sure he doesn't get near wires or anything laying around that he could chew on or swallow. The only items that should be "left around" are his toys and they should only be dog toys made of Nylabone, hard rubber or tough rawhide (American-made rawhide). A ball should be bigger than his mouth so he can't choke on it. Teething is a vital part of puppy growth so prevent mishaps and there will be no need to reprimand the dog.
7. When the puppy relieves himself, check his stool -- it should not be loose. If it is, it might be due to diet, parasites, worms, the nervousness of a new home or something else. Have the veterinarian check it. You should also bring a stool specimen when you take the puppy for his inoculations. The stool is a good indication of a puppy's health.
8. Keep his eyes clean of discharge by wiping them with a soft, clean cloth. Some breeds are prone to a discharge.
9. Until he has his proper shots, do not expose him to the outside or to any other animal. Talk to your vet about this. Usually after his second shot, it is okay to take him out and have him around other animals.
10. When petting your puppy, speak gently and never yell in his cars. Build a close bond with your dog and you will have a happy, healthy dog and a friend for life. Let him know he can trust you by knowing who you are and depending on you to take care of him.
11. Never pick your puppy up by his neck or legs. Put your palm under his chest and be sure his backside is supported with your other hand. If you are not sure how to do this, ask us or your vet to show you the proper way.
12. Until your puppy is fully paper-trained or trained to relieve himself outside, keep him confined to a small area. Only upon your total supervision, should he be allowed the run of the house.
13. When you begin taking him outside, don't take him where all the other dogs go, always take him to the same spot in your yard (or on the street) and then clean it up. This will help keep him (as well as other animals) free of parasites.
14. If you're consistent in any training, the dog learns quicker and becomes more of a pleasure to live with.
15. If you are going to be out of the house for many hours at some point during the day or evening, you may want to consider crate-training your puppy.
16. Important ingredients for a happy, healthy dog - Love, Understanding, Proper Nutrition, Exercise and Obedience Training. If you are not sure of anything, ask your vet.
As of this moment, you have become responsible for someone else, so it's up to you to work out a schedule to give your puppy the best care possible. As your puppy gets a little older and understands more, it gets easier. Please be patient and understanding to his needs because you have a new best friend.
Good Luck!