It is always so exciting to bring a new puppy into the family home. It is also a very big responsibility and adjustment for all members of the family. Everyone has to make sure that the puppy is cared for properly whilst receiving the right food, water and preventative medications/immunisations as well as ensuring your puppy is being properly socialised and learning their manners.
There are many new things that your puppy will come across and many new environments that they will explore throughout their life. To help them through these situations, it is essential for puppies to be socialised with other dogs and puppies, new people including particular men and children, as well as new environments and stimuli like going to the park or using the broom or vacuum cleaner. This will ensure that they do not become anxious, defensive and fearful when exposed to these situations as adults.
At a young age it is also a great idea to get them used to be touched all over from head to toe to ensure that they are able to have all necessary vet work done when needed, including vaccinations, grooming, nail trims, worming, etc. A great way to do this is to gently hold or touch these sensitive areas and reward with praise or treats. You can also play dress ups with your puppy which will make them more comfortable when they are required to wear bandages or Elizabethan collars (cones) for any reasons.
Another great way to socialise your puppy is to enrol them into a Puppy Preschool Class. This gives them the opportunity to meet other puppies of similar ages within new and safe environments and the chance to meet all the other puppies’ owners. It also offers owners the opportunity to learn new tips and tricks to ensure that your puppy has the best training and overall care.
The Maraboon Vet Surgery offers a Puppy Preschool Class that is held each month normally on a Wednesday night from 5:30pm to 6:30pm. Each group participates in four classes (1 per week for a month) and a new topic is learnt/discussed at each class. Puppies need to have their second vaccination before being able to attend their first class. For more information about Maraboon Vet Surgery’s Puppy Preschool visit https://www.maraboonvet.com.au/puppy-preschool
Another great option for socialising your dog, regardless of their age, is attending Doggy Day Care. The Maraboon Pet Resort offers Doggy Day Care positions during the week which provides a safe environment for them to socialise and play with other dogs and people, the staff love spending time with all the doggies. There are always new games and adventures each day to help them continue learning. Dogs will need to be fully vaccinated before attending their first Doggy Day Care session. If you are interested in securing a spot for your dog or are looking for more information then visit https://www.maraboonpetresort.com.au/doggy_day_care