COVID Quarantine has put a wrench in all of our social plans. Puppies are particularly vulnerable to long term effects of this because their experiences in first few months of life significantly impact how they interact with the world. Without proper socialization (and training and exercise), your puppy may grow into an anxious dog afraid of new people and experiences. Many positive interactions with various types of people, animals and situations will teach them that new things are good!

Many common behavior problems of older puppies (over 6 months) and adult dogs are caused by separation anxiety, lack of feeling secure when left alone. Crates can be very helpful or very harmful in solving these problems. It all depends on you and how you introduce the crate and how you use it going forward. Crates must be introduced gradually, making every association with the crate as positive and pleasant as possible.  While crates help keep your pet from getting into trouble while unsupervised, they should not replace exercise, training and quality time spent together.

A young puppy (8-16 weeks) should have no problem accepting the crate as his own room, bed, den.  Any complaining is generally caused not directly by the crate, but by his learning to accept controls in a new and unfamiliar environment and wanting to be with the family.

Dog crates have been used by dog owners, breeders, trainers, groomers and veterinarians for a long time.  But many pet owners hate the idea of using a crate fearing it to be unfair or harmful to their new dog friend.  Are dog crates cruel? or kind?

Boy, those cute, hilarious balls of fur are fun to watch and cuddle! But what do they need?

Having a new puppy is somewhat like having a new baby- wonderful and overwhelming at the same time.  And a quick trip to the pet store makes you wobble in your shoes!  Many come out wondering, how much of this stuff do I really need? Let us share with you what we consider we might need when bringing a new puppy home.