Things You Need
- Harnes & lead for walking.
- Permanent bed, as the one we supply will be grown out of quickly
- Water bowl, we use stainless steal buckets for outside.
- Safe way to travel home, it is both dangerous and attracts heavy fines for your puppy to be unsafe. See below.
- Puppy proof your home and yard.
- Dog food, see below.
- Flea, Tick & Worm Protection, see below.
Your Puppy’s First Night and First Weeks
The first week is unsettling for both you and your puppy. Keep in mind that this is the first time they’ve been away from their siblings and familiar environment. To help your pup adjust, offer vocal reassurance to let them know they’re safe.
Try and remember this is the period that your puppy learns what’s safe and not. Part of this is exposing your puppy to new sights, sounds and experiences. Get your puppy used to being in the car, playing with the hose, going to the beach and even puppy parks (please do not let your puppy run in a puppy park, just hold them so they can see other dogs and get used to the sights and sounds. Once your puppy is fully vaxinated you can let them run wild).
Keeping your puppy isolated during the first few weeks at home may cause your pup to develop anxiety, so now is the time to expose them to people, places and experiences, whilst reassuring them so thay know its safe forever.
Try and avoid sharp sounds, bangs etc., as your puppy will be on edge until they settle in and become part of the family.
Your puppy may vocalise initially to get your attention. While it may be challenging, it’s crucial to be both firm and loving. Before bedtime, take your puppy outside for a toilet break. You’ll soon discern the difference between cries for attention and cries for a bathroom trip. Always give your pup the benefit of the doubt and take them outside. Praise them when they do their business and promptly put them back to bed.
Be lenient during the first weeks and try to spend as much time as possible with your new pet. Gradually leave them alone for short periods to help them adjust.
Feeding Your Puppy
Your puppy has been raised on Enduro Puppy food. To make it easier for them to eat, add boiling water just enough to cover the kibble. Allow it to cool and soften for 15 minutes before adding cold water. Always test the food’s temperature to ensure it’s not too hot before serving.
Within a few weeks your puppy will be eating dry food, so we recommend you have a seperate bowl of dry food so your puppy can get used to eating without the kibble being softened.
Try and get your puppy used to food always around so they will learn to graze instead of scoffing. Scoffing habits start when there isn’t enough food.
https://www.allthingspetspool.com.au/shop/pets/dog/enduro-puppy-20kg/
When it comes time to change your puppy to adult food or a different brand, we recommend you mix some old/new food togther and make the change over a week. This will reduce the chances of your puppy getting the ‘runs’ and an upset stomach.
Your puppy already has been exposed to raw carrots which they enjoy, you can also add brocolli stems a little later, and as they grow, try them on sardines in fresh water, as this will help with their coast and ear infections.
Foods Toxic to Dogs
- Chocolate – Contains theobromine and caffeine which are toxic to dogs.
- Grapes and Raisins – Can cause kidney failure in dogs.
- Onions and Garlic – Contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal issues and damage red blood cells.
- Macadamia Nuts – Can cause weakness, vomiting, and other symptoms.
- Avocado – Contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Alcohol – Has a significant impact on the liver and brain, just like it does in humans.
- Caffeine – Highly dangerous and can cause rapid heart rate, seizures, and even death.
- Xylitol – A sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products; can cause rapid insulin release leading to hypoglycemia.
- Yeast Dough – Can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol, leading to alcohol poisoning.
- Cooked Bones – Can splinter and cause obstructions or injuries in the digestive system.
- Corn on the Cob – The cob can cause blockages in the digestive system.
- Cherry Pits, Peach Pits, and Plum Pits – Contain cyanide.
- Apple Seeds – Also contain small amounts of cyanide.
- Nutmeg – Can cause hallucinations and high heart rate in dogs.
- Fatty Foods and Trimmed Fat – Can cause pancreatitis.
- Tomato Plants – The green parts contain solanine, which is toxic.
- Salt and Salty Snack Foods – High salt levels can lead to sodium ion poisoning.
- Human Medications – Many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal.
Warning
Always consult your vet immediately if you suspect that your dog has ingested any poisonous foods. This list is not exhaustive and it’s always best to check with a veterinarian for the most comprehensive and personalized advice
Worming, Flea & Tick
Your puppy requires worming treatment at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks, followed by monthly treatments unless you use a flea, tick & worming formula like NexGuard Spectra.
NexGuard Spectra goes by weight, so make sure you weigh your puppy first.
Your puppy has already been wormed up but not including to the 8-week mark. We will give you a worming pill to give your puppy when they get home. Remember worming can sometimes lead to your puppy getting the ‘runs’, this is quite normal.
Bedding
Your puppy comes with a familiar bed, which makes them feel comfortable. There’s no need to force them to sleep on it; if they prefer cuddling with you, that’s perfectly fine.
Barking
It’s normal for your puppy to bark when they’re nervous. This usually stops by the time they’re 10-12 weeks old. Simply offer plenty of affection and the barking should subside.
Toilet Training
Your puppy has started toilet training. Use a synthetic turf mat, and they’ll likely use it automatically. If you have a doggy door, they’re already trained to use it. Remember, they’re still young and may have accidents, so be patient.
Puppy Biting
Puppy teeth can be sharp, so be cautious. Training and gentle incentives can help your puppy learn bite inhibition.
Veterinary Care
We recommend Vet Xpress Mobile Veterinary Services if you are in the Gold Coast. If you are in a different location, always check out the reviews and find a well regarded local vet.
You may consider pet insurance and look into wellness programs offered by some vet clinics. Also, don’t forget to register your new pup with your local council.
Microchipping
Your puppy comes microchipped, but remember to update their information when you get home, and keep it up to date if you ever move home. This will allow your puppy to be returned to you if it ever gets lost.
https://car.com.au/pages/transfer-microchip
Grooming
Consider your budget, time, and lifestyle when planning your dog’s grooming routine. Whether you do it yourself or use a professional service, regular grooming is essential for your pet’s well-being.There are three main coats.
- Wool Coats are the most difficult to groom and probably best handled by a professional and they can require daily management.
- Fleece Coats require a little less maintenance with weekly brushing and washing when required and can normally be managed at home.
- Hair Coats are the easiest and are a normal dog coat. Basic washes and brushing will keep them clean and reduce any shedding.
To reduce maintenance, the shorter the coat, the less maintenence required.
https://petwaypetcare.com.au/shop/petway-products/tearless-puppy-shampoo/
Keep an eye on your puppies ears and keep them clean (never use cotton tips, discuss with your vet).
Your puppy will also need their nails clipped, this is a job best done by a groomer or your vet.
First Car Ride
Make the first car trip as stress-free as possible, ensure your pup is safe, and secure. If you are doing a long trip, bring a lead and harness so you can take your pup for toilet breaks. See some guideline from RSPCA below.
https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/blog/pet-care/pets-and-the-law
Vaccination
Puppies are usually vaccinated between 6-8 weeks and should not be exposed to public spaces where other dogs frequent until one week after their final booster shot. Your puppy will require additional vaccinnes 4 weeks later, and then 4 weeks again. You will receive your Puppy Health Book which you can show your vet and keep your puppy health records in.
Socialisation
Expose your puppy to a variety of people and environments to ensure they grow up to be a well-rounded dog. Consider puppy socialisation classes for a safe environment. Dog parks are also a great way for your puppy to meet new freinds, but remember not until after final vaccinations.
Early Training
Contrary to outdated beliefs, puppies can and should start training as soon as they arrive in your home. Positive reinforcement methods are highly effective.
This guide should cover all the basics to set you on the right path with your new puppy. Feel free to consult your veterinarian for more specific advice tailored to your puppy’s needs.