Below you will find some useful information on the best ways to take care of your new family member.
SETTLING YOUR NEW PUPPY AT HOME
Feeding and Nutrition: We recommend feeding ProPlan Puppy Kibble at least 4 times a day for the first 30 days, can be reduced to 3 times. It is best to feed what they consume within 15 minutes. If they empty the bowl, feed slightly more and vice versa. Fresh water should be available at all times. Keep food and water bowls clean without the use of harsh cleaners. Puppies digestive systems are still learning to process foods. Introduction of new foods and treats should be slow and kept to a minimum.
Coats and Nails: The daily checking of furry behinds is important, and pups fit very easily in the sink for a quick wash. The use of a metal comb is perfect for coats. Remember, puppies will lose their first coat in the teenage stage and will go through the “puppy ugglies”, this will resolve as they mature and grow their full adult coat. A quality dog shampoo can be used, and we recommend not bathing more than every 3 weeks. A human nail file can be used on sharp puppy nails.
Potty: Remember puppies need to relieve themselves as soon as they wake from a nap and much more frequently than adult dogs. We use the praise method for encouraging proper elimination and reducing the area your puppy has to travel to find the potty pad is best. We encourage the use of smaller spaces and the leashed-to-waist system for home orientation.
Crate: Using a crate and pen for the first few weeks is the safest possible way to contain puppy at night and during the times when they are not supervised (shopping, showering, work). It is best to remove the door from the crate when inside the pen. Include a potty pad, food/water and toys. By continuing use of the crate, separation anxiety can virtually be eliminated by putting the puppy in it many times a day for short periods and do not go to them for a set amount of time. Leave the crate where they can readily see you going about your day.
Veterinary Visit: Puppies require 3 doses of initial vaccinations and will have had one already. Your veterinarian will have a schedule they follow. We recommend 2nd and 3rd doses at approximately 12 weeks and 16 weeks.
Exploring: We suggest not visiting dog parks, pet stores, and pets outside the home until 2 weeks after the 3rd vaccinations. Only permit them around large dogs that you know well.
Children: Please teach young children how to pick up your puppy safely and have them sit with them. Supervision is important around any dog.
Vehicles: Taking your new puppy in your vehicle often is important if you want a quiet traveling companion. Encourage peaceful car behavior by putting them on a blanket or in a doggie car seat and let them sleep, attempting to excite them about car rides will only have long term poor vehicle behavior effects. We suggest the use of a restraint system to protect in case of accident.
Home: Cleaning products can be very dangerous, especially the ones containing stronger chemicals, rinse your floors well or use a gentler floor cleaner. It is best to block or remove electrical cords.
Escaping: Door etiquette and door rushing are number one concerns for your pet escaping the home. We suggest the training method of humans always enter/exit first with permission given to the dog after the human has gone through.
Prey birds: Please be mindful your puppy is very small and could look like food to a prey bird while outdoors.
Caution
Refrain from toys with rope, stones, beans, and any other materials that may get caught in the throat or block the digestive tract.
SABRINA’S KEY TO BEHAVIOUR
PitterPatter training begins when the puppies eyes open, and continues until they find their forever homes.
Actively encourage your puppy to behave as you would want your full-grown dog to behave.
Reward good behaviour before any bad habits can be formed.
PITTERPATTER GUARANTEE
PitterPatter guarantee the puppy to be in good health and physical condition. PitterPatter will provide a Veterinary Health Certificate from a licensed Veterinarian. This guarantee covers the first 48 hours post transfer to the buyer.
Puppy is guaranteed to be free from Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza for the first 48 hours. Care is recommended not to expose puppy to risks until 2 weeks after final puppy vaccinations are complete. You must notify PitterPatter within 24 hours should any changes occur and have proof of Veterinary care and evidence. In case of sudden death, a necropsy is required. All travel and Veterinary expenses are the sole responsibility of the buyer.
In the case of hereditary or congenital defects during the first 6 months of puppy ownership, PitterPatter will offer the first available puppy as replacement only as long as PitterPatter exists with proof of medical insurance and the regular continued care of a licensed Veterinarian.
No cash refunds.
All our puppies are sold as non breeding companion pets only. A $500 deposit is required to hold a puppy. Deposits are non refundable.