Christmas Puppy | Positive Dog Training Blog

Posts Tagged ‘christmas puppy’

Want a Christmas Puppy?

December 9th, 2009

Its every childs dream. A little puppy under their Christmas tree. But is it the best decision? Here is some information that you should think about when getting a Christmas puppy.

When buying someone a puppy, make sure they want it and understands what it means to own a puppy. Don’t try to surprise the person. If its for a child, recognize that this is a family pet for life. Research your breeders and get all the facts before running to the local pet store to buy your Christmas puppy. Christmas is one day, a puppy can live 15-20 years!

A good breeder will have one parent on site that you can meet to determine if it has a good temperament
A good breeder may not have litters at Christmas to avoid the "Christmas puppy problem", though many breeders do have litters. They will likely interview you to see if you are a good fit for their puppy. Don’t be surprised if they refuse to give you a puppy for Christmas, they may make you wait!
Many dogs who are adopted are returned shortly after Christmas due to behavior issues. Find a training class to start in shortly after bringing home your new dog to avoid having to return your Christmas puppy.
Beware of Christmas hazards – tinsel, wrapping paper, chocolate, and other Christmas goodies are all dangerous things for your pooch. If you can’t watch your new family member, please use a crate.

Having a new puppy or dog isn’t a bad thing, you just have to make the decision just like you would any other time of year, watch the puppy for common dangerous, and of course, join a training class!

Many shelters will not adopt out the week of Christmas. We support adopting dogs so if you really want one, wait until just after Christmas to find your new family member. Do not buy a dog from a pet store or puppy mill! Good luck and Merry Christmas!

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Christmas Dogs

December 29th, 2008

The phone calls are starting to come in, we got a puppy for Christmas, now what? The novelty wears off quickly and you realize that you have just that – a new puppy. Puppies are hard work! I remember when we brought home Nitro, as a dog trainer I knew what to do, but I forgot how much time and attention it all requires.

So, if you have a new Christmas puppy, and are confused about where to start, there are three main things to focus on.

Socialization – keep everything positive and fun. If your pup backs up, licks his lips, yawns, shakes off – those are signs of stress. Use things he likes to make things fun – try food (cheerios are great) or toys. Petting can sometimes make the situation worse.
House training – keep an eye on your pup! Depending on his age and size, I would start with potty breaks every 20 minutes. House training a new puppy can be hard if done improperly. Read this article for the best way to house train a dog
Watch your puppy! When you follow your puppy everywhere, he is acting as the leader. Teach your puppy to follow you. Either keep a leash tethered to him or constantly be calling him to go with you – of course rewarding him as he comes. Do not let your pup in unsupervised rooms.

Lastly and most importantly – start looking for a puppy preschool. Puppy preschools are meant for socialization and fun, not obedience. If you are looking for someone qualified, visit the Dog Trainer Search Dog Training Directory – all of these trainers are qualified professionals.