The Teething Problems
Puppies are cute, and puppies are sweet, but new puppies tend to poo and wee everywhere until they are housetrained. This may take up to six months in some cases. Older dogs may also be affected especially if one from a rescue centre adopts you, or if a stray follows you home!
Puppies can also nip, cry, and chew on whatever they can get their little teeth into and dig up gardens while they are young and know no better. However, with the correct, reward-based training the puppy/new dog can be transformed into a well-behaved animal.
New Puppy Training
Training does not have to take long hours of your time, in fact the time you spend with your dog can be used constructively. All training should be a controlled form of play, in other words, both you and the dog should enjoy it.
There are numerous training classes which you can attend with your new dog and some trainers who will call to your home to help you with your dog. Ask your vet, pet shop or other doggie friends for someone they can recommend.
You should be prepared, dogs can live 12 or 14 years or more. That’s certainly a lot of physical exercises, mental exercise, food, grooming, vaccines, kennelling… the list goes on!
Cost of Owning a Puppy
Apart from the initial cost of buying a puppy, basket, kennel, collar, lead, license fee, inoculations, vets fees, toys, and food, there is also the cost of having them neutered or spayed to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
If after reading the above you are still eager to own a new puppy, that’s wonderful! A dog can bring so much pleasure to your life. There is nothing nicer than being greeted like you have been away for ever and they make you feel so special. Dogs never question your motives, or your decisions. They give you unconditional love and no matter how awful you look or feel they tell you that you are the best.
Seriously though, owning a dog can be sooooo rewarding. Just ask the person with the big smile on their face and a dog on the end of the lead!
Are you thinking about getting a new puppy? What breeds are you considering? Let us know in the comment section below…
This piece was written by Connolly’s RED MILLS Nutritional Advisor, Professional Dog Trainer, Behavioural Instructor, International Judge and Owner of Tag N Rye Dog Services, Julie Holmes. Julie has over 35 years experience working with dogs of all breeds and specialises in providing Basic and Competitive Obedience, Dog Training Classes and Private Tuition to dog owners all over Ireland.