Bringing a new puppy home can be very exciting, but it is also a lot of work. If you have never owned a puppy before, there are a few things that you should do first.

Purchase the Necessities

Before your puppy comes home, you are going to need dishes for his food and water. You also need dog food that is designed for puppies. You will also need a comfortable bed for him to sleep in and a few toys for him to play with. If you are going to crate train your puppy, you will need a crate that is large enough for him to lie down comfortably but not too large. If not, you should buy puppy pads to prevent accidents on the floor. Finally, you will need a collar and a leash.

Do Your Research

There is a lot that you need to know about owning a puppy. First, you should learn how to potty-train your pup. The sooner he learns this skill, the easier your life will be. Also, you want to start teaching him simple commands such as sit, stay, lay down, and come. You also want to use his name often so that he learns it. If you don't know much about training a dog, there is plenty of information online. If you need some help, you can work with a professional dog trainer.

Schedule an Appointment with a Veterinarian

When your puppy first comes home, you should schedule an appointment. He will need a full exam as well as his first shots if he hasn't had them already. This is also a good time to discuss spaying or neutering your pet and the best time to do it. If you have any questions or concerns about raising your puppy, the vet can help. It is also to have the number of a reputable animal hospital in case your puppy has an emergency.

When you bring your puppy home, call us here at New Hope Animal Hospital in Durham, (919) 490-2000. The veterinarian at our veterinary clinic will make sure that your puppy is in good health.