Christmas is just around the corner, and you feel that the best gift you can give to yourself or a loved one is a puppy. While that may be true in some cases, most of the time you need to do a lot of research and preparation before you welcome a puppy into your home, especially around the holiday period when everyone is super excited and rose-tinted glasses are on everyone’s eyes. Getting a doggo is a life-changing decision, so having a checklist you can go through can help you make the decision. Being in the know will ensure you can provide the care the new pup needs.Â
The first thing you need to ask yourself is – is this an impulsive decision? Everyone can get a little too excited during the holidays, so make sure that you first know that you are truly ready to become a dog owner before you welcome a new family member into your loving home. Sleep on it, and then decide. You will be more clear-minded tomorrow!
The next item on the list is another important question – to adopt or to shop? We all have our reasons, but if you can, try to adopt a puppy from an animal shelter instead of purchasing an expensive pup from a breeder. Shelter dogs need homes, and you can provide the love that an abandoned animal needs. Visit your local shelter and find a friend!
Getting a new puppy means taking responsibility for their health from now on. Before you take them home on Christmas Eve, pay a visit to the vet and check your new pup’s health. If they were neglected, they might need immediate veterinary assistance, and knowing is always better than being in the dark. Do your homework and get your doggo checked!
Before the furry family member arrives, make sure that your home is dog-friendly. Many of our Christmas decorations are not suitable for dogs, so clean the house and get rid of anything dangerous before the puppy moves in. Toss the glass ornaments, tinsel, crazy Christmas fairy lights, and any plants that might harm your new addition.
Finally, ask yourself, do you really have everything you need to welcome a new furry family member? Puppies are babies, and they need their diapers or training pads, slicker brushes, treats and puppy food, as well as formula if the vet says they should have it. They will also need a cozy bed and a crate you can decorate with dog-friendly Christmas ornaments!