Bringing a puppy home is exciting, but it can be overwhelming at first while the puppy learns about their new home and starts to grow as a part of the family. It's important to make sure the home is a safe space for the puppy from the beginning, as this will help keep them safe as they explore their surroundings and learn more about life in the family home. Some of the ways to create a safer space for the puppy include the following.
Puppy-Proof the Space
Puppies learn by using their teeth to explore, so the first step in caring for a young puppy should be to make sure the area they're in is safe for them. Keep anything that could injure them, especially if it's chewed on or swallowed, out of the space and away from their reach. Any kids' toys, for instance, should be put away where the puppy can't get to them while playing to prevent any tears or destruction as the puppy learns how to play properly.
Set Up a Safe Space for the Puppy
The puppy will need a lot of sleep at first, and it may not be possible to watch them all of the time, so it's a good idea to set up a safe space for the puppy. This space should have minimal toys, blankets, and more inside it to prevent potential chewing or damage. While some people will use crates, others may prefer a puppy playpen to keep them in the area. The key is that this area is safe for the puppy and somewhere they can be when the owner can't watch them.
Stick to a Routine
It is a good idea to get into a routine with the puppy and stick with it as much as possible. Puppies thrive on routine as it lets them know what to expect during the day. They're incredibly good at learning the family routine as they grow, so they'll learn that in the afternoon, the kids get home from school and it's time to play, but during the day, everyone is working or away, so it's time to nap. It does take time for them to learn this, but sticking with the same routine can help them learn it faster.
Offer Enrichment Activities
Enrichment activities help puppies learn and grow, and they're a great idea to help get out the excess energy. Enrichment activities are anything that helps with mental stimulation for the puppy so they can learn and grow. For easy ideas, try putting a few treats in a towel and rolling it up so they have to work at it to get to the treats. Another option is to sprinkle a few treats in the yard and let them sniff the grass to find them. Anything that makes them think can be an enrichment activity, so they don't have to be expensive.
It's important to make sure the home is ready before the puppy comes home, but remember to be flexible and ready to change based on what the puppy needs. Use the tips here to make sure your home is ready for a new pet and that they'll be able to quickly learn the routines of the home. This won't eliminate all the stress of getting a new puppy, but it'll make things easier for everyone and help keep the puppy safe.