You see a cute little Golden Retriever puppy at the pet store. Awww, isn’t he cute? You’ve always wanted a dog, but are you going to march into the store and buy the puppy straight away?  

Well, there are a few things you need to consider before committing your life to a dog. 

The puppy may look cute and small, but have you done your research? Golden Retriever puppies may be small but they grow into a relatively large dog. They also require ample exercise and grooming, as well as training and attention.  

In fact, all dogs have specific needs that you’ll have to fulfill – more so when they are just puppies. Puppies need to be toilet-trained and taught the rules of the house. You should not get a puppy just to cage him until you have time to play with him during the weekend.  

And remember, size does matter.  

Rearing a big dog takes a lot of effort. For example, a Rottweiler will grow into a very strong dog. Even when they are being playful, they can cause accidents because of their size. So training and discipline is very important. When your dog is disciplined, there is, for example, considerably less chance of your child being knocked over during play.  

Don’t get a Rottweiler and then chain him to a pillar just because he will grow into a menacing presence.  

So, before you bring the puppy home, there are a few more things you’ll need to do. 

Puppy-proof your home 

Puppies are like babies. They can’t tell what is edible or dangerous. As such, you’ll need to make sure he does not poke his nose into objects you do not want him to. Secure all electrical cords so he is not able to get to them. A handy tip: You can use Tabasco sauce to stop him from biting the cords.  

Crawl around your home. Pretend you are the puppy and see things from his point of view. Objects like paper clips, pins and tacks should not be placed where he can swallow them. Define the areas your puppy will have access to. If you don’t want him in the bedroom, make sure you keep the door closed at all time or purchase child safety gates to stop him from entering.  

Another thing: Puppies tend to view your shoes, umbrellas, and even your underwear as toys. Basically, anything on the floor is fair game. So make sure you don’t give him a chance to misbehave by leaving your precious Gucci shoes around.  

First purchases 

The most important purchase would be your pup’s crate. This can be a wire cage that is big enough for his eventual adult size. A crate is a place where your pup feels safe in and is usually used for housebreaking purposes.  

For bedding, you can use towels or commercial crate pads or even make your own pillows. However, you’ll need to purchase a few as these may easily get soiled and need to be washed. 

You will also need to get his food and water bowls. It is advisable to obtain bowls that are heavier to prevent the puppy from toppling them. There are many types in the market, from plastic to ceramic to stainless steel ones.  

Your purchase will depend on your budget, but in my experience ceramic bowls are preferable – that is, until they grow big enough to kick the bowl into the drain and break them. 

Make sure you wash the food bowl after every feeding to prevent bacterial growth. As for his water needs, you may want to get a water bottle over a water bowl. Dogs with furry faces like the Shih Tzu, Schnauzer and terriers should use the water bottle so that they don’t drench their faces every time they get thirsty. 

It is also vital to purchase a collar and a leash. Your puppy needs to get used to wearing a collar from an early age. Don’t worry if he keeps scratching at the collar. Your first leash should be lightweight for the pup’s comfort. If you start him off with a heavy leash, he might decide not to have anything to do with a leash again.  

And yes, toys! Shopping for toys is a fun thing to do. However, do not purchase toys small enough for your pup to swallow. Always check your dog’s toys for wear-and-tear. When they get too worn out, throw them out. 

The extended family 

In order to raise your puppy to be a fine dog, you’ll need to teach him discipline. However, you’ll need the help of your family. Let them know the “rules and regulations” you are imposing on the pup.  

For instance, the “come” command should only be “come”. Changing it to “come here”, “over here”, “mart”, depending on who is calling, is going to confuse the puppy.  

There should only be one person feeding the pup. Having too many people feeding your puppy at all times may result in obesity. Control your family and friends. Don’t let them spoil your puppy unnecessarily. Remind them not to feed the puppy candy and table scraps and not to leave food on the floor.  

Homecoming! 

Finally you get to bring your puppy home!  

One more thing, though, take him to your veterinarian for a check-up first. You can make an appointment before you collect your puppy. 

Now that your beloved puppy is home, take good care of him. Let him settle down in his new home for a while before you take him out and about, or let outsiders come over to play with him. Make him feel loved and secure. As he grows to trust you and your family, you will be surprised at how lovable he can be. 

Things to buy for your puppy  

1. Crate/cage
2. Feeding bowl
3. Drinking bowl/bottle
4. Soft collar and light leash
5. Dog shampoo
6. Chew toys
7. Puppy food
8. Puppy comb or brush