Bark Busters Offers Tips for Bringing Home a Puppy

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Bark Busters Offers Tips for Bringing Home a Puppy

New furry friend can be a bundle of joy, but a canine companion comes with
the responsibility of guardianship

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. —Dec. 18, 2007—More than a million puppies will be given as gifts this holiday season. To help new pet parents prepare, Bark Busters, the world's largest dog training company, has compiled a series of essential tips based on the experience of the company's worldwide network of dog behavioral therapists.

"The love and laughter that comes with a new puppy epitomizes the joy of dog ownership," says Liam Crowe, Bark Busters dog behavioral therapist and trainer. "But while puppies are cute and cuddly, accepting the role of guardian for a new pup comes with significant responsibilities. Be certain that you or the recipient is ready for such a commitment."

Tips for the New Arrival
Before you bring home your puppy, have these supplies on hand:

• A crate is an invaluable tool when housebreaking a puppy. It also provides your young dog with a sense of security when you are busy or away. However, never leave a puppy in a crate for longer than 4-5 hours.
• Bedding should be thick enough for comfort and sized appropriately for the breed. Be aware that some puppies that are left unattended for too long may chew their bedding.
• Baby gates serve as a great training tool in that they can be used to block off "restricted" areas of the house and help to teach your puppy what areas are off limits.
• Dog-appropriate toys, like the puppy-sized Kong™, are the smart choice. Although children's toys look cute, they can prove hazardous. Never use old clothing or shoes as toys; a puppy cannot differentiate between your old and newly bought items. Stick with size-appropriate toys for your breed. Always supervise your puppy when he is playing with toys that contain squeakers as they can be a choking hazard.
• Two dog bowls: one for fresh water and one for quality dog food. Consult your veterinarian for food recommendations.
• A well-fitted collar and leash are a must for training and safety during outdoor excursions. Avoid chain leashes; a soft cotton leash is a better alternative.
• A pet ID tag allows your puppy to find his way home should he roam. You may also want to microchip your puppy at your next vet visit.
• Brushes and dog shampoo will eventually be needed for every breed.
• An odor and stain eliminator is a cleaner you will want on hand for those inevitable toileting accidents.
• A veterinarian should be researched and chosen beforehand. You will want a contact should an emergency arise. Introduce your new puppy early to the vet and learn what vaccinations he will need.

Tips to "Puppy Proofing" Your House and Yard
In addition to the essential supplies mentioned above, ensure your home and yard are safe for the exuberance of a new puppy.

• Remove potential hazards—anything that would make an enticing chew toy—such as power cords, window blind cords, potted house plants, children's toys, coins, batteries, shoes and clothing, garbage bins, and anything "bite sized" that could be ingested by a curious puppy. Outside, remove bite-size rocks, sticks, fertilizers, gardening tools and equipment. Also, be mindful of toxic household and garage items, such as antifreeze, detergents, mothballs and tobacco products. (See a complete list of dangerous item on our home page at www.BarkBusters.com.)
• Large and unstable objects should be moved out of harm's way. These objects could potentially fall on your inquisitive puppy as he explores his new surroundings.
• Move anything cherished or breakable to higher ground. Puppy tails have a way of sweeping a coffee table clean.
• Get on your hands and knees—at the puppy's view—to look for potential problems. If you think an item could be a hazard, remove it. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Tips for the First Day Home
Your pup will be excited and anxious in his new environment. It is your job to make him feel safe and comfortable.

• Be patient. Although accidents will happen, do not reprimand your puppy during the first 24 48 hours while he is acclimating to the new environment. But do praise him profusely when he does something positive. This will start your both off on the right foot.
• Structure is a must. Have a planned schedule from the day your pup arrives—especially when trying to housebreak. Take your puppy outside frequently, and stay with him so that you know he has toileted.
• Getting acclimated will take him some time. Show your pup where he will be eating, sleeping and toileting. As your puppy adapts to his new surroundings and routine, he will feel more comfortable.
• Naps are important for a puppy. Be sure to give him the space and time he needs to relax. Try not to overwhelm your puppy. He is like a new baby, and will need frequent naps throughout the day.
• Start training early. Dogs are pack animals and seek authority and reassurance from the pack leader. Providing this leadership is key to managing a dog's behavior. For additional behavior and training tips, please visit www.BarkBusters.com.

Tips for the First Night Home
The first night may prove to be a challenge as puppies often cry and whine throughout the night. Also, he probably will need to go out to toilet. Just as the daytime routine is important, so is the evening routine.

• Use the crate and bedding at night. As difficult as it is, avoid letting your pup sleep with you or any other family member. It could lead to behavior problems down the road.
• Your puppy's sleeping arrangements should be in a central location in the house. If you let your puppy sleep in your room, you may have trouble catching any shut-eye.
• Tough love should be your motto. Usually, a puppy takes a few nights to feel safe at night. Take him out to toilet every 4-5 hours. Other then that, he will need to get used to sleeping on his own.
• If your puppy still has trouble sleeping at night, hide a ticking clock in his bed. The sound imitates the heartbeat of the mother and can sometimes soothe an anxious puppy. To simulate the warmth of his littermates, place a warm water bottle or oversized stuffed toy in his crate for added comfort.

Tips for the Future

• Picking a trainer can be a daunting or confusing task. Consult your veterinarian or visit www.BarkBusters.com for the best training options for you and your growing puppy.
• Keeping your puppy healthy starts with a visit to a veterinarian. Usually, a yearly exam and the vet-recommended vaccinations will keep your puppy in tip-top shape.
• Exercise your puppy regularly. A walk in the neighborhood or a trip to the park is good for mind and body—for both you and your dog. Be careful not to overdo it with young pups.
• Be consistent. Puppies learn through experience and association. The more consistent you are, the faster your puppy will learn and the better he will perform.

About Bark Busters
Bark Busters, the world's largest, most trusted dog training company, started in Australia in 1989 and came to the United States in 2000. Since inception, nearly 400,000 dogs have been trained worldwide using its dog-friendly, natural methods. With 240+ franchised offices in 41 states and more than 400 offices in 10 countries, Bark Busters is continuing its mission to build a global network of dog behavioral therapists to enhance responsible dog ownership and reduce the possibility of maltreatment, abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. Bark Busters is the only international dog training company that offers a written lifetime guarantee. Therapists will provide future sessions free of charge if problem behaviors recur, or if any new problems develop. For more information, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com, where dog owners can complete a Dog Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.