new puppy guide
Considering taking the step of puppy adoption? We're here to make that process easy.
Whether this is your first puppy to adopt, or you are a veteran to the process and simply need a refresher on preparing for your new puppy, this guide is for you. Here at RJ Goldens our goal is the help you find the perfect puppy for your family, and make that process as simple and unique as possible. Below you will find the basics involved in preparing your home and family for bringing a new puppy, as well as informing you of the essentials required.
Considerations.
Some things to consider before deciding to adopt a new furry friend.
01
Time
Before bringing a new puppy home, time must be taken into consideration. While new puppie are loads of fun and so rewarding, they are a big responsibility and do require commitment.
02
Space
Both Golden Retrievers and Miniature Goldendoodles have moderate to high energy levels. This must be taken into consideration, along with their approximate mature size. If apartment or lawn space is an issue, you may want to consider the smaller F1B Miniature Goldendoodle.
03
Costs
As can be expected there are costs associated with a young puppy. These include supplies to prepare for your new puppy, as well as continued vaccinations and wormer. For your convenience each puppy from RJ Goldens goes home with 30 days of complimentary pet insurance with Trupanion to help avoid any unexpected expenses in the first month.
04
Home Prep
For the most streamlined experience, you will need to make some changes to your home to accommodate your new puppy. We recommend preparing a small section of your home that your puppy will have access to, to simplify training and give your puppy bounds. You will need to "puppy proof" this section, and make it home for them. As they learn, they can be given access to more space.
Essentials.
What you need for your new furry friend.
Puppy Food
We use and recommend Purina Pro Plan for your new puppy. If you do choose to use another food, make sure it is a high quality puppy food with a good balance of premium ingredients. We will send a bag along home with you to get you started, and a coupon to help with you purchase your first bag.
Probiotic
We do our best to ensure that your puppy is in excellent health before leaving our home, and a probiotic can help keep it that way as they transition to your home. A probiotic is a wonderful digestion aid, as well as helping to keep a puppy's immune system strong through times of stress. All of our puppies go home with a supply of Purina FortiFlora probiotic.
Food and Water Bowls
When purchasing a food and water dish for your new puppy, the main things to look for are durability and washability. We recommend ceramic or stainless steel as these keep water cool and don't harbor bacteria. A non-slip mat is also handy for under the dishes to keep messes contained.
Collar, Leash, Harness
Each puppy needs their our collar. This also provides a great place to display their name tag and Microchip number. We recommend using a harness and lease to take your puppy around, as this is less likely to hurt a puppy pulling on their leash.
Crate and Bed
When selecting a crate, make sure it is not too large or too small. This will help your puppy feel secure, without making them feel comfortable using the restroom in their crate. The crate will be your puppy's personal space where they are comfortable and will make make training much easier. The bed can be placed in the crate or another location in the house. We recommend placing it in the crate if your puppy will sleep in the crate.
Training Supplies
Training is a major consideration when bringing a new puppy home. We recommend having training bells and other training supplies on hand such as gates and treats on hand.
Blanket and Toys
Each puppy likes their own blanket and toys that they are familiar with. Toys are a great way for interaction with your new puppy as well as opportunities to train. We will send your puppy home with a blanket with mom's scent and toys that they play with here. It would be a good idea to have extra toys on hand.
Grooming Products
Puppies need baths too, and it is a good idea to have quality grooming products on hand to keep your new puppy clean. A full grooming line-up includes a brush, shampoo, conditioner, and nail clippers. We recommend CHI for all your grooming products. It is important that your shampoo and conditioner be dog specific.
Additional Considerations.
Vet Selection: Throughout the lifespan of your pet, your vet will be your best friend. Talk with friends, and read reviews before
making a selection. Remember, they we be caring for your pet's health.
Puppy Training: Training is essential to any well behaved pet. We're here to help with your training needs. Check out our training options here.
Puppy Interactions: Until a puppy is 12 weeks of age, and has had all vet recommended vaccines and wormers, you do not want to be unnecessarily exposing your puppy to other pets. Plan the first couple weeks with your new puppy to make this possible.
Cleaning Supplies: As with any puppy, mistakes will happen. Have cleaning supplies on hand to deal with any messes.
New Puppy Owner Resources.
