We encourage you to read all of this information thoroughly so you’ll be familiar with what your new pup will need and have it on hand BEFORE s/he arrives.

Have a plan on how you will house your pup during the day and the night and where and how you will house break your little one if not already potty trained.

Things To Have When Your New Pup Arrives

1.   Food .  We will provide you with some food that your puppy is used to eating to help get you started.

2.   Pure spring water or well water for drinking at least for when s/he first arrives and for a week or so.  Most city tap water is not desireable because of chemicals and chlorine found in most city water which your pup has never had.

3.  Crate.  We recommend crate training even if you are going to be using a doggy door (see below).  If your pup is being shipped to you, s/he will be arriving in one that you can use.

4.  Collar.  We have purchased a collar for your dog so you won’t have to purchase one initially.  However, we recommend you consider a rolled leather collar that will help keep your puppy’s coat from matting.

5.  Leash.  You will need a leash to insure that your puppy does not catch you off guard running off to explore.

6.  Toys.  We recommend you select a few safe, soft, mushy ones that squeak.  They really enjoy them.

7.  Chew Toys.  It’s important to have a few Chew Toys like 100% Natural Porkhide Twists that you can get at Costco, pig ears, cow hooves, and Kongs.  We do not recommend rawhide!  Note that your puppy will go through a strong chew stage around 1 year old and you’ll want to be sure to have some good Kongs filled with goodies like peanut butter to keep them occupied so they won’t be tempted to chew on wood they will easily find in your home.

8.  Portable Stair Gate or a portable fence/pen that you can set up in a room to contain your pup or put in front of the doggy door if you are using one.

9.  Puppy Bed.  Know ahead of time where your puppy will sleep like in their crate in your bedroom or the Family Room, on your bed like many people do, etc.  However, we do not recommend they be allowed to sleep on the bed until you’re confident that they are potty trained.

10.  Day Stays.  Be prepared for where pup will stay during the day if you are not going to be home.  We have found that our pups are able to make it through the night without having to go potty outside but you’ll want to take them out immediately after they wake up.

11.  Holistic Remedies:  If you find that your puppy is anxious and is having a tough time settling in, we suggest you consider purchasing a product called "Rescue Remedy" that can be found in the organic section of grocery stores (ask a clerk to help you find it).  It will help calm your puppy and help with the transition to his/her new home.  Apple Cider Vinegar and a touch of Honey can help revitalize dogs and some say it helps keep worms away.  Use a few drops in water or give in an eye dropper.  Vets also recommend this after pups have had shots or other trauma during the day.  Just give a little and be sure your pup has fresh water at all times and is drinking!

12.  Doggy Door.  We have Doggy Door trained your new pup and we highly recommend this method as it is easy and your pup is already partially or completely trained with a doggy door.  It gives them and you a great deal of freedom.  The pup can decide when s/he has to go and will not have to try to get your attention or try to hold it for long periods of time.  You will still have to watch your pup when s/he first arrives until the pup knows your new routine, gets comfortable with her/his new location and you get to know your pup’s routine.  They do make doggy doors for sliding glass doors as well.

IMMUNE SYSTEM

Remember that your puppies' immune system is still getting stronger.  Keep her/him from other dogs and unusual germs until s/he has had 4 shots, if possible.  Try to minimize stresses as best as you can.  Some stress is inevitable, of course, but the more you are aware of, the better home you can provide for your precious little one.  Changes can stress the immune system.  Here are a few examples:

1.  Moving or big change in environment

2.  Change in routine

3.  Vaccinations

4.  Worming

5.  Sudden change of food or water type

6.  Family upset (yes, they will "feel" your upset)

7.  New adventures if not introduced with care

8.  Spaying/neutering

9.  Illness or antibiotics

We hope you find these tips helpful.

Carol and Greg Stover

Blue Star Labradoodles

606 E. Bedivere Dr., Spokane, WA 99218

Phone: 888-246-4870 or Local Cell: 509-979-0949

Website:  www.bluestarlabradoodles.com

E-Mail:       carol@bluestarlabradoodles