Common Mistakes for new puppy owners

Hello, wonderful puppy lovers!

This is Sherri Smeraglia here, wanting to have a little heart-to-heart with you all about the exciting, sometimes challenging, journey of welcoming a new furry friend into your home. Over the years, I’ve seen the joy, the laughter, and yes, the occasional slip-up that comes with puppy parenting. So, let’s dive into some of those common missteps and how to gracefully work around them, shall we?

Let’s talk crate training first. It’s a topic that often gets misunderstood. Think of it not as a cage, but as a personal bedroom for your pup—a safe haven. It’s crucial for their sense of security, helps with potty training, and ensures your favorite shoes remain unchewed.

Socializing your puppy is next on the list. Imagine your pup, tail wagging, making friends left and right at the park. Achieving this level of social grace takes a bit of early effort, introducing them to new experiences in a safe, controlled manner.

Routine is another word I find myself repeating often. Puppies, much like us, feel more confident and secure when they know what to expect from their day. A consistent schedule for meals, walks, and bedtime helps set the foundation for a well-adjusted dog.

And, of course, training—something that should start from the moment your puppy crosses your threshold. Delaying training might give your pup the impression they’re running the show, and believe me, it’s best if you’re the director of this play.

That’s where our Doodle Prep School comes into play. I’ve poured my heart into creating this program, designed to tackle these early challenges head-on. With four progressive blocks, we cover everything from the basics to more advanced lessons in manners and socialization. It’s your puppy’s first step towards becoming the admirable dog they’re meant to be.

I understand though, life gets busy, and keeping up with consistent training can be daunting. If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to lean on us. Our training programs are here to support you, ensuring your puppy doesn’t just grow but thrives. From our Starter Puppy Program to the comprehensive Super Puppy Program, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

In essence, every moment with your puppy is a golden opportunity for teaching and learning. Missed training isn’t just a lack of learning; it’s inadvertently teaching them the wrong lessons. Let’s work together to make every moment count.

We’re here for you and your pup, eager to help navigate this incredible journey. Because in the end, seeing your puppy grow into a joyful, well-mannered companion is what truly matters.

With warmest wishes and wagging tails,

Sherri Smeraglia