Puppies For Dummies

Puppy First-Aid Kit

Be prepared for a puppy emergency by having these essential items together in a canine first-aid kit. Set these things aside in a safe place or take them with you when you travel with your puppy.:

• Strip of cloth to use as a muzzle

• Gauze pads

• A sheet or towel that can be used to carry your puppy in a supine position

• A few strips of cloth to tie around a bleeding wound

• A tourniquet rod (use only in severe emergencies)

• Hydrogen peroxide/betadine solution

• The poison hotline number and a list of all poisonous plants

• Bacitracin

• Ice packs

• Snakebite kit, if you’re in snake country

• Towels to wet in case of heatstroke

• Rectal thermometer

• Towel and water jug (to be kept in your car) in case you get stranded

• A roll of vet wrap (purchased at your puppy’s doctor) or bandage tape

Household Poisons to Keep Away from Your Puppy

This list identifies common household poisons, including plants, that you may have in and around your home. Keep your puppy away from these items to prevent physical injury or death of your pet!

Routine Vocal Directions for Your Puppy

Consider using the following familiar words routinely so your puppy gets comfortable with direction and his home, helping him feel like he’s part of the group:

• Inside: When bringing or calling your puppy inside

• Outside: When taking your puppy outside

• Car: When going on a car ride

• Upstairs: When going upstairs

• Downstairs: When going downstairs

• Go to Sally: Teach your puppy this command along with the names of everyone important to you

• Walk: When initiating a walk

• Play: When initiating play

• Kitchen: When going to the kitchen (this can be used for any other important room)

Foundation Commands for Your Puppy

When you begin puppy training, keep commands short and quick. Begin with these commands to build a base and not to overwhelm your puppy or you:

• Let’s go: This command says “I’m the leader, so follow me!” Say it whenever you’re leading your puppy on leash.

• Sit: This direction is the human equivalent of “Say please.” Direct your puppy to sit before giving him anything positive, from meals to treats, or when greeting strangers or friends.

• Down: Directing down helps your puppy calm down whenever you’re going to be stationary for a while.

• Stay: This direction instills good impulse control. Direct your puppy to stay whenever you want him to be still.

• Wait: Use this direction for sudden stops or at curbs. It says “Stop and focus on me before proceeding.”

• Excuse me: Teach your puppy to respect your space. Say this direction whenever your puppy is blocking you or is in your way. It’s a passive way to say, “I’m the leader; watch me!”

• No: This direction is the human equivalent of “That’s a bad idea” instead of “You’re bad.” Use it if you catch your puppy thinking about misbehaving.

Sample Puppy Housetraining Schedule

Housetraining your puppy is easier when you follow a routine. This is a sample housetraining schedule for a healthy 4-month-old puppy. Adjust your housetraining schedule for your puppy’s needs and the demands of your own schedule.