Live Life Team
Dog owners must provide a safe environment for their dogs. If you purchase a puppy, it is best to keep them in a contained and supervised area until they are at least six months old. This will give you time to train them, instead of having to replace things you would prefer to keep in good condition, such as shoes, carpet, and furniture.
Dogs can also get into dangerous situations when they are unfamiliar with their surroundings, situation such as chewing electrical wires or exposing themselves to household chemicals. Securing your dog in a safe supervised area limits their ability to damage your things or have accidents. Dogs should have comfortable bedding and separate bowls for food and water. It is also a good idea to have some accessible toys for your dog to keep them from destructive chewing due to boredom or stress.
There should be a separate area for your dog to sleep or rest. Dogs should have an opportunity to learn separation. They should be separated from you for short periods of time everyday so they do not develop a dependency for company. Helping your dog to become secure in his environment allows him to be a happy and healthy pet.
Puppies should be kept away from stairs and steep drops. If they choose to try to climb stairs or jump too soon they could damage their growth plates. Puppies should also be kept out of the bedrooms; they may find it irresistible not to urinate on the carpets or beds. If you choose to allow them into the bedroom, provide a crate for them to sleep in ( HYPERLINK “http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk” http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk).
If you want to keep your dog outside, consider providing a fenced kennel with bedding and protection from the elements. Bury the fence partly underground to prevent the dog from digging out. Large dogs may require a fence that is at least 6 feet tall, to prevent them from jumping out. Be sure to place the kennel on a flat surface that does not get wet often. The kennel should be large enough for the dog to enter and turn around if they choose to do so. Their bedding should be comfortable and dry. Some owners will use a musher of straw during the winter months and a musher of cedar chips during the summer months.
