At
last, the day you have been waiting for, your new puppy has arrived into your
home. It is important to plan
in advance before you
bring your baby companion to its new home. Remember it takes time for
puppy to adjust to life with its new family. Puppy may seem anxious and fearful of its new
home having spent the first several weeks of life with Mum and siblings.
However, in a couple of days, with love and patience on your part, the
transition will be smooth.
First, puppy must learn to trust you as
its keeper. He/she must be provided with proper care and attention and you will
be rewarded with a loving and loyal companion for many years.
Most important, ask your breeder how your
puppy was maintained. What brand of food the puppy was offered and how
often was the puppy fed? Has the puppy been toilet trained? Try to
continue the routine started by the breeder. Gradually you can make changes
which suit you and your lifestyle.
Consider sleeping and resting quarters. Provide a bed for your
puppy and introduce him/her to a special cosy corner so he/she can have a sleep
during the day. You will need a couple of bowls for
water and food and set up a particular place where you intend to feed puppy.
Another important part of your preparation is to find a local
veterinarian who can provide quality health care for your puppy in the form of
regular check-ups, on going vaccinations and prompt medical attention in the
case of an emergency. Make an appointment to visit your vet before puppy comes
to his new family and make an appointment to have him/her checked out soon after
he settles in. It is important that puppy starts off life in his/her new home
with a clean bill of health.
If possible, plan to bring your new
puppy home in the morning so he/she has a full day to become acquainted with the
new environment before nightfall. Resist the temptation to handle puppy
too much. Let him/her explore the new home and become acquainted with other
family members.
Remember this
little puppy has been accustomed to cuddling up with his litter mates and
Mother. It may take a little while for him/her to adjust to sleeping alone. Be
patient with your little puppy as he/she adjusts to the new life in a new home
environment. Praise and encouragement will gain greater results than scolding
and punishment. Your puppy wants nothing more than to please you so he/she
is anxious to learn the behaviour that is required of him/her.
When my puppies go to their new homes I provide a comprehensive
"Information Sheet" with details regarding puppy's feeding regime, grooming,
sleeping arrangements and vaccinations. I also give tips on handling,
obedience training and health and safety issues.
The Maltese is a beautiful toy dog. They are extremely loving,
alert, intelligent, loyal and sensitive. Maltese owners and reputable breeders
in return have love and deep respect for this breed. They make excellent house
companions. They are easily trained and are clean animals. Although they
do require grooming to maintain the beautiful texture of their coats, they enjoy
this procedure. This is a true example of their desire for attention and
companionship with members of their family.
