Preparing to bring your sweet baby home in style and comfort.
In the picture above you can see an example of the pen your puppy will spend time in before going to their forever home with you.
We recommend a setup similar to the one above for your home as well. It will be smaller, of course. But the same elements should be there. An area large enough for a potty area and food and water and ideally their crate either in it or connected to it. They will naturally choose the crate to sleep in, especially if it is covered to make it cave like. This also makes crate training a breeze. This “Puppy area” will serve as your puppy’s home base, safe place, chill area. They will come out and play with you and when they are tired or you can no longer watch them constantly, they will return here for a rest.
First and foremost!
We strongly encourage you to watch the entire “With Open Arms” course BEFORE you bring your puppy home.
We have spent countless hours ensuring your puppy has the best start in life. This course will help you continue the work we started.
A Few Of Our Favorite Things
Dog food - We recommend a raw diet. Start with a premade complete and balanced raw food mix. Rotate proteins and formulas to ensure there are no gaps in nutrition. If you choose to feed kibble, Royal Canin or Purina Pro Plan are good options.
Harness and leash - Please, please only use a harness with your puppy and not a collar alone with the leash. This will help to protect their delicate trachea.
Pet Stairs - For getting off and on tall places to protect their patellas.
Adaptil Spray - Many times when the puppy is unable to settle in their area a few sprays of adaptil will help. It mimics mom’s pheromones and helps the puppy settle.
Pyramid/tent beds are a big hit with these little puppies.
Small pet carrier/hard-sided crate like the one pictured are perfect. Don’t underestimate the chewing power of this tiny breed! I do not recommend a soft-side crate in the first year or maybe even longer!
Speaking of chewing… We love these Bully Sticks for chewing. The act of chewing has a calming and comforting effect on the adrenal-pituitary axis in the brain - it triggers the release of endorphins and helps relieve stress and anxiety. Be extra careful what you give your puppy to chew on. Many chews sold cause a choking or blockage hazard.
Snuggle Puppies can help to calm a lonely puppy who may be missing his mom and littermates.
Lots of toys!
A soothing shampoo for bath time.
Ear cleaner - just rinse the ears. Don’t push anything into the ear canal as this can push dirt and debris further into the ear canal causing more problems. A good rinse after bath time is sufficient.
A good brush.
Nail trimmers and/or a dremel dog nail grinder.
And possibly the most important thing your new puppy needs is a spot on your lap! Enjoy your precious time together!