Getting a puppy is one of the greatest experiences in life. Whether you rescue a dog from a shelter, are gifted a puppy, or acquire a furry friend in any other fashion, I believe all new dog parents experience the same stages when getting a new puppy.
1. Deciding which dog to get.
This is an important stage of getting a puppy. You need to be sure that you get a dog that fits your lifestyle, both schedule, and home, as well as your capabilities for their care and maintenance. Do not get a long-haired animal if you are not prepared to groom it. Do not get a Great Dane if you live in an apartment and don't think you'll want to take your dog for walks often. This part can also be hard because it means saying no to plenty of extremely cute little faces.
2. Meeting for the first time.
Whether you are gifted a dog, meeting them in a shelter for the first time, or seeing them after having stalked their picture online for weeks, it's love at first sight.
3. Naming the puppy.
Which always ends up being harder than it sounds. You may have already had a predesignated name that you decided on long ago, but then you get your puppy and that name just doesn't seem to fit. You probably confuse your new furry friend by trying out different names on them until you land on the one that is just right.
4. Taking a trip to PetSmart.
Now that you have your puppy and hopefully a name, next you need the essentials and maybe then some, for your new furry friend. And, the best thing about PetSmart is you get to bring your dog inside so they can select their first toy.
5. Attempting to use a leash.
No matter the size or breed of dog you decided on, learning to walk on a leash is always a bit of a challenge. If you selected a larger breed, you will probably face the struggle of being pulled mercilessly until they learn to walk at a steady pace. For puppies, the issue typically is biting on the leash every time it remotely touches them. They usually grow out of this on their own, although it is kind of cute for a while.
6. Potty training.
This is one of the less fun parts of having a puppy, but it must be done. Otherwise, you spend more time cleaning up accidents and scolding than you do enjoying your puppy.
7. Meeting other dogs.
This happens sooner than later for some puppies, depending on whether or not they will be the only dog in their house. If so, it is still a good idea to try to socialize your dog so that they can handle being around other animals at places like dog parks, trips to PetSmart, and more. Otherwise, your dog's activities may be limited.
8. Showing off your new puppy.
Right after you get your new puppy you have to take them into public so everyone can awe over their cuteness. This includes place of work, around the neighborhood, and to all your friends' houses. It's amazing how fast you become so proud to have them.
9. First trip to the vet.
Hopefully, your new puppy doesn't need more than a couple of shots when you first get them. This can be a scary experience for puppies and will probably become something they grow to hate. Do your best to keep them calm and comforted, and then later you can tell everyone their weight. It's crazy how tiny they are at first, and how fast they grow within the next few vet appointments.
10. They completely steal your heart.
It doesn't take long to connect with a new dog once they come into your life, and once you do so they become your best friend.
