National Puppy Day is March 23rd. If you’ve recently adopted a puppy, you may very well have both your hands and your heart pretty full right now. Puppies are adorable, but they need lots of pet parenting! Read on as a Plano, TX vet lists some common puppy care mistakes.

Inconsistent Training

Little Fido’s education should start right away. Housebreaking and crate training work very well together. However, you don’t need to wait until your pet has these things down to start teaching him other things. All dogs should know basic obedience commands, like Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. Start with Sit, as it’s the easiest for them to pick up. Be patient and positive, and incorporate lots of treats and praise.

Not Puppyproofing

Little Fido is very curious, which is of course super cute. Unfortunately, it can also be dangerous. Puppies don’t know what is and isn’t safe, so the odds of them trying to eat or chew something dangerous are pretty high. Keep anything you don’t want your dog eating or chewing out of paws’ reach. That includes things like shoes, small or sharp items, socks and other small pieces of clothing, toxic plants, medicine, small kids’ and cat toys, plastic bags and ties.

Lack Of Socialization

Socialization will play a big role in how dogs’ personalities develop. There’s a specific time frame when this needs to happen. By the time little Fido is about 3 months old, that window starts to close. Socialization entails exposing your puppy to various places and faces, and helping him form a positive experience about the world. Ask your vet for tips.

Inconsistency

Baby dogs are ridiculously cute, so it can be easy to let them get away with things. Fido may quickly learn that you can’t resist him when he begs, and that you’ll only make him get off the couch sometimes. Not being firm about the ground rules from Day One can lead to major behavioral issues later.

Delaying Things

Now is the time to get little Fido used to being brushed and having his paws and feet handled. Trust us: you’re doing your future self a favor by starting early. Don’t wait until your pooch is all grown up and then try and get him onboard! Please contact us, your Plano, TX animal clinic, for little Fido’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!