There’s nothing we like better than hearing from a new dog owner who wants to start with our Okemos certified dog trainers as soon as possible.
Puppy training classes are not only helpful for your new pet, but for you. Taking care of a puppy is a big responsibility, which is why our skilled staff at Dog Gone Fun takes the time to help you plan expenses at your local pet store and veterinary office in addition to obedience training.
Here are a few ways you can prepare for your new puppy.
Visit the Pet Store
A trip to your local pet store can help you get a better idea of how much a puppy will cost in the long run. While some items are one-time purchases (like crates), other items will be recurring expenses throughout your dog’s life. For example, you’ll need to continue buying dog food for years.
We recommend taking a small notebook to record what items catch your eye and how much they cost. Puppies are expensive, which is why it’s important to plan your expenses before you start buying.
Once you get home, list the items from most to least essential. Our certified puppy trainers can also help you determine what items are most important for the health and well-being of your new puppy.
Items You’ll Need for Your New Puppy:
- Toys (for chewing and playing)
- Wire crate with a divider
- Odor neutralizer or cleaner
- Paper towels
- Training treats
- Dog food
- Bowls for food and water
- Collar or harness
- ID tag
- Leash
- Disposable bags to scoop poop
- Brush
- Nail clippers
- Phone number of local veterinarian
- Phone number of dog daycare (Dog Gone Fun)
Visit Your Local Vet
Veterinarians are more than happy to talk to , especially when you wish to discuss future care. Before you buy a puppy, consider how much you’ll need to pay for vaccinations, flea and heartworm medicine, spay/neuter, or other services.
Spaying or neutering your puppy is much less expensive than taking care of a litter. Your pet will also be more receptive to puppy training if they are spayed or neutered. Intact dogs often urinate around the house, and male dogs that haven’t been neutered often try to escape from home to find mates.
Before you can make your reservation for puppy training, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian. Once your puppy is properly vaccinated and protected against fleas and heartworms, they are eligible for our puppy daycare, dog boarding, and puppy obedience classes.
Meet with Our Dog Trainers
Our certified dog trainers in Okemos, MI, have experience working with new dog owners just like you. We always recommend anyone who has recently gotten a dog to ask questions and enroll their pet in puppy training classes. That way, you’ll be able to help your puppy grow up to be well-behaved, socialized, and happy.
To reserve a spot in our puppy training classes, call Dog Gone Fun at (517) 657-4300 or contact us online today.
This blog post has been updated.