Providing a Home For Your Puppy

Start with puppy-proofing your home. Just as you would “child” proof your home for a toddler, you must do the same for your puppy. Like toddlers, puppies will put everything in their mouth to see if it can be eaten or chewed, as well as explore places you didn’t know you had. All of which can be hazardous to his health.

His new home is a new, exciting world he is anxious to explore. Restrict the puppy to small areas where he can be watched. Look around the area and put away items he will want to chew/explore (shoes, waste baskets, children’s toys). What can’t be put away (such as the furniture), spray with Bitter Apple spray. Close off areas you don’t want the puppy exploring until he’s better trained by closing the door or putting up a gate. If possible, gate off the area the pup should remain in.

When you are too busy to watch the puppy or you have to leave, keep the puppy in the crate where he is safe. Just as you wouldn’t leave a toddler unattended, never leave your puppy/dog running loose in the yard or house. He is bound to get himself into trouble. The crate is like their den (or bedroom). It is meant to be used as a playpen, crib, or secure transport device. A special note: Dogs who have been crate trained, are far more less likely to develop “separation anxiety.”

Have a special place to set up your puppy’s crate. Most boxers like to be in the same room as the family. If your puppy won’t settle down, try putting a dark blanket over the crate. Sometimes the crate needs to be put somewhere quiet. If necessary, try different places and see which area your puppy does less crying/howling.

A final note: Just as toddlers playing together require constant supervision, so do children and puppies. Neither knows the appropriate manner in which to play with each other. Kids can tug, hit, or squeeze a puppy in a manner that can injure the puppy. As well, puppies are rambunctious and excitable and can unintentionally knock down a child or grab their clothes and tug them to the ground. Be consistent in teaching both children and puppies good manners.

Providing a safe, loving environment, as well as a consistent training routine for your puppy will be a rewarding family experience.