Tips for Introducing a New Puppy to an Older Dog

Are you thinking of adding a new pet to the family this holiday season? Though bringing a new puppy into the home is a joyful event, it can be filled with many trials and tribulations, particularly if you have an older dog in the house. How can you make this transition as smooth as possible for your pup and older pooch? We have a few tips to help you ensure your older friend doesn't feel hurt or jealous.

When Possible, Introduce Your New Pup on Neutral Territory

Whenever possible, it's best to introduce your new puppy on neutral grounds. Avoid places your older dog frequents, including your home, yard, and neighborhood where he walks. Good options include public parks, parking lots, and other pet-friendly spaces.

Don’t Neglect Giving Your Older Dog One-On-One Attention

Your old friend deserves one-on-one attention without the new puppy climbing all over him. It's good to put your pup away in his crate, pen, or the yard during this time. This is good for your new pup, too, helping him understand the world does not always revolve around him.

Don’t Leave Your Older Dog & Puppy Alone Together

Youngsters can be annoying even to those nearest and dearest to them. Your older dog is no stranger to these feelings, regardless of their nurturing nature. If your puppy takes his playful peskiness a bit too far, he could get unintentionally hurt by your older dog.

Be Cautious When Gifting Toys & Treats

It's easy for feelings of jealousy to flare when highly coveted treats and toys are being distributed. Keep these feelings in check by separating dogs at these times to avoid altercations.

Help Your Older Dog Feel Secure of His Role in the Family

Remember, if your older dog’s emotional well-being is neglected, the experience will not be positive for anyone. Taking everyone’s feelings into account ensures a happy household.

Furry family drama taking its toll? At DoGone Fun, we offer ‘neutral territory,’ as well as a great space to give your older dog or new pup time away. Learn more about our doggy daycare services today.

This article was previously published at: https://www.dogonefunchicago.com/owning-a-dog/tips-for-introducing-a-new-puppy-to-an-older-dog/

Benefits of Giving Dog Training as a Gift with a New Puppy

Are you gifting someone with the joy of a puppy this holiday season? Then you should consider adding in dog training - an excellent and appreciated accessory gift, especially for first-time owners. Dog training provides many benefits to both pup and owner, easing everyday struggles and ensuring a more enjoyable journey.

Benefits of Giving the Gift of Training with a New Puppy

Dog training has been shown to be the single most important factor in securing a dog’s “forever” home. There are many reasons to give the gift of dog training for new puppy:

·         Get off to a great start.
Puppy training classes help a puppy and its new family get started off right. Puppy training ensures puppy and owner learn how to interact with each other and their environment in a positive way.

·         Build the foundation for a great, lasting relationship.
Attending training sessions together sets the stage for the future, enhancing puppy/owner partnerships and building bonds that last a lifetime.

·         Learn how to handle common dog (mis)behaviors.
Training helps new puppy owners learn how to handle typical puppy (mis)behaviors like housetraining, chewing, and digging.

·         Encourage good doggy manners.
Puppy prep and obedience training ensures dogs form the skills owners want from the start, such as coming when called, cooperating with walking on a leash, politely greeting guests, and more.

·         Develop key socialization skills.
Studies show puppy socialization is integral to the psychological health of adult dogs, and puppy training classes provide excellent opportunities for this essential facet of development.

·         Broaden the range of activities in which a dog can take part.

Trained dogs can join in on more family events, such as visits to friends, kid’s sporting events, hiking, swimming, and other regular events enjoyed by the family.

Ensure a joyful holiday experience that lasts a lifetime. Give the gift that keeps on giving with puppy prep and obedience training classes from DoGone Fun today.

This article was previously published at: https://www.dogonefunchicago.com/training-a-dog/benefits-of-giving-dog-training-as-a-gift-with-a-new-puppy/

Things to Consider Before Giving a Puppy as a Present

Are you thinking about sharing the love of a puppy with a friend or family member this holiday season? Puppies are a great joy, however, not everyone may be ready to receive a puppy as a gift. Because a furry little life is on the line, it’s wise to consider this decision carefully before making a puppy purchase.

Things to Consider Before Giving a Puppy as a Present

·         Space.
Consider the size and temperament of the pup with the housing of its intended family. Puppies need room to live, play, and potty, presenting challenges to those living in apartments and homes without greenspace.

·         Financial situation.
Pets require a significant and longstanding investment in food and health care. Unexpected illnesses and injuries, such as a pup that swallows a toy or gets injured in an accident, can quickly add up to thousands.

·         Families with children.
While children may adore the idea of a cute, fuzzy little puppy, a family may have other demands that take priority. Puppies require a significant investment in time and energy, and may not be the best gift for families with ‘2 under 2’ or older children with a hectic after school sports schedule.

·         The health of older adults.
If your friend is barely getting around, a rambunctious puppy, particularly one that will grow to a large size, may be too much for her. Those in poor health could also end up orphaning a puppy.

·         Major life changes.
Those who have recently graduated, are expecting a baby, or suffering a health crisis more than likely do not need a puppy at this tumultuous time.

·         Travel.
If your friend or loved one is a frequent traveler, they may feel tied down by a puppy. Worse, the pup could suffer severe separation anxiety when repeatedly left behind.

·         Work schedule.
Social and dependent, a puppy may not be the best idea for someone working 50-60 hour workweeks. Puppies need someone dedicated to their care.

A Puppy is a Lifetime Commitment

Has your friend or family member expressed they are prepared for the responsibility of a puppy and committed to their lifelong care? If so, the addition of a new furry family member can make a wonderful gift, alongside all the accoutrements of a successful puppy introduction, such as bedding, food, and toys.

Ensure an easier transition. Give the gift of dog training as a present alongside your pup this holiday season. Contact DoGone Fun to learn more today.

This article was previously published at: https://www.dogonefunchicago.com/owning-a-dog/things-to-consider-before-giving-a-puppy-as-a-present/