What to know before buying a puppy

Trish Harrison • 1 June 2024

Bringing a puppy into your life needs to be a well considered decision

Bringing a puppy into your life is an exhilarating journey filled with wagging tails, wet noses, and boundless affection. However, amidst the excitement, it's crucial to tread carefully and be well-prepared for the responsibilities that come with canine companionship. Whether you're a first-time pet parent or adding another furry friend to your family, here are some indispensable considerations to ponder before taking the plunge into puppy parenthood.

Research Breeds Thoroughly: One of the most pivotal decisions you'll make is selecting the right breed that aligns with your lifestyle, living situation, and energy levels. Each breed boasts distinct characteristics, such as size, temperament, exercise requirements, and grooming needs. Take your time to research breeds extensively and ensure the one you choose complements your preferences and capabilities. Australian Labradoodles need to be exercised regularly and do like to spend time with their owners, they need formal training and consistent boundaries.
Financial Preparedness: Owning a puppy entails financial commitments beyond the initial adoption or purchase fee. Factor in expenses like food, veterinary care, grooming, training classes, toys, and accessories into your budget. Additionally, unforeseen medical emergencies or behavioral issues might arise, so having a financial buffer is essential to provide the best care for your furry friend.
Time and Commitment: Puppies demand a considerable amount of time, attention, and patience. From potty training and socialisation to obedience training and exercise, investing time in your puppy's development is paramount for fostering a well-behaved and happy companion. Assess your schedule and lifestyle to ensure you can devote ample time to meet your puppy's needs and provide the companionship and stimulation they require.
Space and Living Arrangements: Consider your living space and environment when contemplating bringing a puppy home. While some breeds adapt well to apartment living, others thrive in homes with spacious yards for frolicking and exploration. Ensure your living arrangements are conducive to accommodating a puppy, with sufficient space for them to roam, play, and relax comfortably.
Long-Term Commitment: Acquiring a puppy is a long-term commitment that spans over a decade or more. Ensure you're prepared for the responsibilities and adjustments that come with caring for a canine companion throughout their life stages, from playful puppyhood to serene senior years. Assess your readiness for the emotional, physical, and financial obligations of pet ownership before making the commitment.
Health and Wellness: Prioritise your puppy's health and wellness by scheduling regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care. Research reputable veterinarians in your area and establish a healthcare regimen tailored to your puppy's specific needs. Additionally, maintain a nutritious diet, regular exercise routine, and proper grooming practices to promote your puppy's overall well-being.
Training and Socialisation: Proper training and socialization are pivotal for shaping your puppy into a well-mannered and sociable companion. Enroll in puppy training classes or seek guidance from professional trainers to instill essential obedience commands and address behavioral issues effectively. Expose your puppy to various people, animals, environments, and experiences to foster confidence, resilience, and positive interactions.
Pet Compatibility: If you have existing pets at home, consider their temperament, age, and compatibility with a new puppy. Introduce them gradually in a controlled environment to gauge their interactions and ensure harmonious coexistence. Supervise their initial interactions and facilitate positive associations to foster a bond built on mutual respect and camaraderie.

Bringing a puppy into your life is a joyous and rewarding experience, but it also entails a myriad of responsibilities and considerations. By contemplating these essential factors before embarking on your journey as a pet parent, you'll be better equipped to provide a loving, nurturing, and fulfilling life for your furry companion. Remember, the bond between a human and their canine counterpart is forged through patience, commitment, and unwavering devotion, creating a lifelong friendship that enriches both hearts and homes.

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The Power of Calm

by Trish Harrison • 16 January 2025

The Power of Calm: How Your Energy Affects Your Puppy’s Confidence Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. Their boundless energy, adorable curiosity, and sweet snuggles are hard to resist. But puppies are also highly sensitive creatures who pick up on our emotions and behaviour more than we realise. Staying calm and balanced around your puppy is one of the most powerful tools for raising a well-adjusted, confident dog. In contrast, being overly anxious or protective can inadvertently create stress and anxiety in your puppy. Let’s explore why your energy matters and how to foster a peaceful, positive environment for your pup. The Emotional Connection Between Humans and Puppies Dogs are incredibly perceptive when it comes to human emotions. Puppies are like sponges, soaking up the energy around them. If you are calm, composed, and consistent, your puppy will sense this stability and feel secure. However, if you are tense, nervous, or overreactive, your puppy may mirror these emotions, leading to anxiety and fear-based behaviours. For example, if you react with panic when your puppy stumbles or encounters a new situation, they may learn that unfamiliar experiences are dangerous. Conversely, if you stay calm and reassuring, your puppy will be more likely to approach the world with curiosity and confidence. How Overprotectiveness Can Backfire It’s natural to want to shield your puppy from harm, but being too protective can unintentionally teach them to be fearful. Common signs of overprotective behaviour include: • Hovering over your puppy during social interactions to prevent potential rough play. • Rushing to “rescue” your puppy from minor falls or harmless situations. • Constantly controlling their environment to avoid every possible risk. While some caution is necessary, puppies need to explore and experience mild discomfort to build resilience. If you intervene too quickly, your puppy may become dependent on you for security, which can hinder their ability to develop confidence and independence. Why Calm Energy is Essential for Training Training a puppy requires patience, consistency, and a calm demeanor. When you remain relaxed and use positive reinforcement, your puppy is more likely to engage and learn effectively. On the other hand, frustration or shouting can confuse and frighten your puppy, making training sessions stressful and less productive. Some key benefits of staying calm during training include: • Clear communication: Calm energy helps you give clear, consistent commands. • Better focus: A calm atmosphere allows your puppy to concentrate on learning. • Stronger trust: Your puppy will feel safe and confident in your leadership. Tips for Managing Your Energy Around Puppies 1. Stay mindful of your body language and tone of voice. Puppies are highly attuned to nonverbal cues. Use gentle movements and a soft, encouraging tone. 2. Breathe and pause before reacting. If your puppy misbehaves or encounters something new, take a moment to assess before responding. 3. Practice self-awareness. Recognise when your own stress levels are high and take steps to calm yourself before engaging with your puppy. 4. Set healthy boundaries. Allow your puppy to explore, make small mistakes, and learn from experiences. Fostering Confidence and Resilience in Puppies By maintaining a calm, confident energy, you help your puppy develop important life skills, such as: • Self-regulation: Learning to manage excitement or frustration. • Social confidence: Feeling comfortable around people, other animals, and new environments. • Problem-solving: Facing minor challenges without fear. In the long run, a balanced puppy is more likely to grow into a well-behaved, happy adult dog who trusts your leadership and handles the world with poise. Final Thoughts Raising a puppy is as much about managing your own energy as it is about teaching your pup new behaviours. By staying calm and giving your puppy room to explore, you create a positive, trusting relationship that sets the stage for lifelong confidence. Remember, your energy is a powerful influence—use it wisely!