How to Prepare for a Poodle Puppy
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If you’re looking for a smart and elegant canine companion, look no further than the curly-haired Poodle! Though sometimes stereotyped as a sissy dog, the Poodle is actually one of the most athletic dogs you’ll ever meet. They also have a sunny disposition and a woofderful sense of humor—no wonder the Poodle is among the most pawpular dog breeds in America! Whether Standard, Miniature, or Toy, Poodles have repeatedly proven themselves to be pawsome family dogs that never fail to impress. Raising a Poodle pup is rewarding but also hard work, so make sure you’re properly prepared before you welcome one into your home!
Home Preparation
Just like bringing home a human baby, you’ll want to be prepared for your Poodle puppy’s arrival. Before the big day, shop for all the things your puppy will need, including food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic is recommended), a high-quality puppy food, a soft bed, a crate, chew toys, a leash, and a harness or collar that doesn’t put pressure on your Poodle’s sensitive thyroid. You will need to purchase grooming tools as well, and brush your Poodle daily to keep their fur from matting. After shopping for Fido’s stuff, it’s time to puppy-proof your home! Put all electrical cords, cleaning detergents, prescription drugs, poisonous plants, and other loose items out of reach; otherwise, your Poodle will eat or chew on them! Baby gates also prevent access to off-limits areas of the house, such as staircases and certain rooms.
Create a Schedule
Having a routine is crucial to successful puppy-raising! The more consistent you are with the schedule, the faster your Poodle pup will settle into their new environment. That’s why it’s super impawtant for everyone to be on the same page if there’s more than one human in the household. Prior to puppy’s arrival, figure out who will walk them, feed them, play with them, and take them to the vet. If everyone at home works or goes to school full-time, consider hiring a Wag! dog walker so that your puppy’s potty training doesn’t get interrupted. Remember, young pups will need to go to the bathroom first thing in the morning, after each meal, after napping, and before bedtime. Schedule your Poodle’s grooming appointments, too; that gorgeous, hypoallergenic coat will need to be trimmed every four to six weeks.
What to Expect the First Week
The first week will be a busy adjustment period for everyone in the family, especially the newest, four-legged member. Spend as much time with your puppy as they learn the rules of the house—it shouldn’t take them too long to figure it out, though. Poodles are very smart and thrive on mental stimulation, so be sure to provide your pup with toys and training, and include them in your family’s activities. Arm yourself with the right knowledge, and you should make a furrific Poodle pup parent!
Fetch
Balls and fetch toys are great for energetic Poodle pups!
Easy
Their high intelligence and eagerness to please make Poodles very easy to train!
Spaced Out
Standard Poodles are susceptible to bloat, so divide their food into two or three meals per day.
