Getting a new puppy is a moment of great joy. It’s a moment when everyone at home is looking forward to play with the little fur ball and everyone is aflutter to make things as comfortable as possible for the newest addition in the family.
However, puppies are like little kids—they take some time to adjust and get used to the new environment. For the meantime, use these tips to help your new pet to get over the feeling of homesickness.
- Use the Cloth from the Puppy Pen
Ask the breeder if you can have a piece of cloth from the puppy pen or whelping box. Keep it close to your puppy during the first few nights at home. The mother’s scent in the cloth is familiar and comforting to your pet. In case you’re not able to secure a cloth from the breeder, your own clothing close to the puppy.
- Provide a Crate
Purchase a crate and confine your pet in it on the first few nights. Arrange comfortable bedding inside the crate and cover it with light blanket to give your pup the feeling of being in a den. If your pet gets loose and wanders around, he may feel displaced and lonely, and may start whimpering.
- Keep Soft Toys Near Him
Especially when the dog is used to cuddling with his mates, he will miss his companions. Place a few soft plush toys in his bed to emulate his playmates that’s he’s been missing. In most cases, dogs love cuddling with their toys, so this is definitely a good idea to take his loneliness away.
- Place a Clock Next to the Crate
The rhythmic ticks of the clock imitates her mother’s heartbeat, so placing one near him will make him feel that he’s close to his mother. Keep it out of reach of your puppy though so he won’t chew on it.
- Keep His Area Warm
Your puppy is used to sleeping in a box or bed made warm by her siblings and mother. Imitate this atmosphere by placing a heat lamp high above your dog’s crate to keep his space warm at all times.
- Be Tough
Though it is your weakness to see your pup cry, be tough and avoid comforting him too often as he will use this technique in the future to get your attention. Instead of comforting your little friend when it whimpers, reward him with treats when he’s behaving or quietly resting.
Taking care of a new pet that doesn’t seem to cooperate can be tough. However, with the correct knowledge and advice you’ll, get your new cute little pup playing and bonding with your kids and the entire family.
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