Preparing for your Swissys arrival

 

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Is your home puppy-proof?  Your puppy is naturally inquisitive about his new environment. He probably can't wait to investigate (and maybe even chew or taste) everything within his reach. But sometimes this can spell danger for him. That's why it is essential that you puppy-proof  your home and yard-ideally before he moves in-by making sure that all potential poisons and dangers are out of reach. A few of the hazards you should inspect your house and yard are:
Electrical cords. Tuck them where your puppy can't get to them, and keep a watchful eye lest he should have the urge to chew. A shock can be fatal.
Medicines. Make sure that all medicines are stored high above your puppy's reach, and never leave pills or containers on low, accessible surfaces.
Poisons and household chemicals. Check to see that no cleansers, polishes, insecticides, rodent poisons, or other dangerous chemicals have been left in puppy-level, easy-to-open cabinets. (Child-safety latches can help.)

While you are awaiting your puppy's arrival, inquire about Puppy Kindergarten classes offered in your area. When choosing a class, pick one that uses the positive reinforcement "motivational" approach for training. Plan to take your puppy to an obedience class for at least basic training and socialization with other dogs and people. One night a week for at least a year will yield a lifetime of enjoyment with your well-behaved dog. Many schools offer specific classes to prepare for the Canine Good Citizen Test which can be taken when the dog is six months old. It is a good idea to begin classes when the puppy is between 8 and 12 weeks old. If you plan to show your dog, inquire about handling classes, also.
Spend time preparing your children for the puppy’s arrival. Children need to know how to properly hold, play with, and respect a puppy. Older children, the puppy and especially you, will benefit greatly from attending puppy classes together. It is a great way for all of you to learn to be consistent with each other in training your pup.

Prepare a special "safe place' for your puppy. This can be a corner of your kitchen, living room, or bedroom where you can put the puppy’s crate where he can feel safe and quiet when he wants to be alone.

If you don’t already have a veterinarian, spend some time finding a good one who has experience with large breed dogs and bloat. Ask for recommendations from other large-breed dog owners in your area.

Purchase the following essential items: a good crate with a washable pad, an adjustable buckle collar and leash, food and water bowls, high quality dog food, safe toys. Lots of paper towels and cleaning supplies for those little accidents.

Safe Toys

Do not purchase PLASTIC toys for your dog. Dogs have sharp teeth that can easily shred a toy and allow them to ingest plastic, rubber or little bells that could easily cause Injury. 
Some suggestions are: BOODA BONES, NYLA-BONES (a great alternative to rawhide). Sturdy plush toys such as VERMONT CHEW BEARS 
(Caution: some dogs like to 'gut' plush toy animals and remove the squeakers! Keep an eye out for this!). Big plush soccer balls and other washable, Heavy rubber toys such as the 'KONG' toy.

Things to have on hand for your Swissy: