Intro: You just got a new puppy: congratulations! A new furry friend adds so much joy to your life. The first few days and weeks can feel like being in a dream. Puppies are adorable, fun, and shower you with love and affection. They also need a lot of love, too! You want to give your dog a great life, starting when they are young. Try some of these new puppy tips.

New Puppy Needs

It’s important to remember that your puppy is still so young – think of them like a baby. They need your attention, love, and care. This takes a lot of time, but it’s enjoyable for everyone, including your new furry family member. Puppies have other needs too, like exercise, socialization, potty and crate training, and nourishment with wholesome nutrition.

New Puppy Tips: Routine Is Important

Dogs, especially puppies, thrive on established routines. A daily routine helps them feel safe and secure. It can also provide much-needed structure to your time together.

Exercise and Socialization

Exercise and socialization are some of the most important habits to establish with your new puppy. Like humans, daily exercise boosts your dog’s heart health, helps burn energy, and provides an opportunity for play as well. The same is true for socialization. Puppies learn proper behavior and etiquette as they interact with fellow furry friends. The Good Dog Spot offers dog daycare programs that provide both once your puppy is at least 8 weeks old.

Potty and Crate Training

Another essential aspect to consider with your puppy is potty and crate training. Both of these are necessary, especially if you plan on boarding your pet or traveling with your pet for holidays or other events. Potty training teaches your dog when and where to eliminate. Crate training can be taught alongside because they will learn to hold their bladder while in their designated sleeping area. It’s also useful to teach your puppy to go to their crate during an emergency or when they need to be in a safe space. Crate training also provides an emotional hideaway for dogs of all ages, especially after a busy day. 

Pamper and Groom

Puppies and dogs need proper grooming to look and feel their best. Start your new puppy on a grooming schedule as soon as possible for the best results. The frequency of your dog’s grooming needs depends on their breed, activity level, and outdoor habits. Grooming habits, like daily brushing, help to keep your puppy feeling comfortable and are also a great way to bond as you get to know each other. While you can groom your dog yourself at home, grooming services like the ones we offer at The Good Dog Spot can help make the process easier. This is especially true as your puppy learns what to expect. You can choose from self or full-service options depending on what you want. 

These new puppy tips will help your dog live their best life from youth all the way through adulthood. The Good Dog Spot offers Western MA dog grooming, daycare, and boarding services for your dog (and cats, too!). Call (413) 534 – 1333 to learn more.

Call Us to book your spot (413) 534-1333

Call Us to book your spot (413) 534-1333

35 C North Chicopee Street Chicopee, MA 01020

139 King Street Northampton, MA 01060

ABOUT US

Our Mission is to ensure pet parents’ peace of mind by providing consistent, compassionate grooming services and a nurturing, safe and fun environment for pets to socialize and grow through our daycare and overnight programs.

Chicopee hours

  • Monday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Tuesday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Wednesday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Thursday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Friday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Saturday  8:00am - 4:00pm
  • Sunday  8:00am - 9:00am
    & 4:00 - 5:00pm

We are closed between 12:30-1:30 for lunch
Holidays:  8:00am - 9:00am & 4:00pm - 5:00pm

Northampton hours

  • Monday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Tuesday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Wednesday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Thursday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Friday  7:00am - 6:30pm
  • Saturday  8:00am - 4:00pm
  • Sunday  8:00am - 9:00am
    & 4:00pm - 5:00pm

We are closed between 12:30-1:30 for lunch
Holidays:  8:00am - 9:00am & 4:00pm - 5:00pm