The Basics

This section is designed to inform you on what you'll need to know about raising a puppy. Click on the corresponding links to learn about each topic.

Before getting a puppy

You'll want to read our sections about What to Expect, Breeds and Finding the Right Breeder.

After getting a puppy

Right away you should take your puppy to a veterinarian. Then, you'll need to know about Dog Food, Shots/Vaccinations/Deworming, House Training, Biting and What To Buy.

It's important you understand about Socialization to keep your dog friendly and to prevent behavioral problems. You'll want to know about Grooming and you'll probably want to check your backyard for Toxic Plants and understand that a lot of human foods are Dangerous Foods for your dog.

Important things to consider

You'll want to consider getting your puppy Spayed/Neutered, purchasing Pet Insurance and you'll definitely want to sign up for Puppy Classes.

What to train a puppy

Over the next few months you'll want to train your puppy to Come on Command, to Sit, how to Stay, the command to Leave things alone, the command to get your puppy to Drop It and you'll need to learn about Leash Pulling. You'll also want to consider Crate Training for when you have no choice but to leave your puppy home alone.

For information on topics not mentioned here please click on the buttons near the top of the page to see the menus.