Preparing for the pup's arrival
Before you worry about supplies and niceties there is the business of getting the house puppy proofed. Every home is unique. It goes without saying if you own a treasure don't let it be within reach of the Weimaraner. Accidents happen. There are changes you will need to make. One that comes to mind is cords. As much as possible you want to limit access to electrical cords.
Here are some ideas to make your life better--your pet safer...
Before you worry about supplies and niceties there is the business of getting the house puppy proofed. Every home is unique. It goes without saying if you own a treasure don't let it be within reach of the Weimaraner. Accidents happen. There are changes you will need to make. One that comes to mind is cords. As much as possible you want to limit access to electrical cords.
Here are some ideas to make your life better--your pet safer...
- Childproof latches on kitchen and bath cupboards
- Encase electrical cords in PVC pipe if you cannot tuck out of reach of your pup.
- Keep your food out of reach of the puppy. This of no-nos includes sugar-free gum and some candies that are dangerous for a dog--more so for a young pup.
- The trashcan is something that can be difficult to control; hopefully you can have it secure enough the pup will not be able to get into it.
- Houseplants are often toxic.
- Check the yard for dangerous plants. Guide to Poisonous Plants
- Check your fence for small areas where they could get their head stuck, or sneak out of to explore the bigger world.
- The pup will grow fast. Soon they will be reaching the countertops. Medication, kitchen sponges, toothpaste, soap, and small objects can be dangerous.
- The garage (or where you park your car) may not be safe either. Make sure you use pet-friendly antifreeze. Remember the pup is inquisitive and may get one of your sharp tools, bit and pieces, and into other chemicals.
What You Need vs What you Want
There are several things you will need to have before the pup arrives. If you are worried about staying on a budget, the best approach is to make a list, as well as to stay out of the pet stores. They feature displays meant to get you to open your checkbook. In truth, you can spend as much (or more) on supplies as your paid for your pup. Even if you have deep pockets, you may not want to waste money. Most of these items will not last long enough to make it worth the carry home. You also need to be aware that some of these items could not only be destroyed, but bits and pieces could be ingested. This adorable purchase could lead to a life-threatening situation. Make sure your choice is appropriate and remember that certain items need supervision.
There are several things you will need to have before the pup arrives. If you are worried about staying on a budget, the best approach is to make a list, as well as to stay out of the pet stores. They feature displays meant to get you to open your checkbook. In truth, you can spend as much (or more) on supplies as your paid for your pup. Even if you have deep pockets, you may not want to waste money. Most of these items will not last long enough to make it worth the carry home. You also need to be aware that some of these items could not only be destroyed, but bits and pieces could be ingested. This adorable purchase could lead to a life-threatening situation. Make sure your choice is appropriate and remember that certain items need supervision.
Toys
In all honesty, you do not need a bucket of toys. The puppy will enjoy a few things just as much as a dozen. Some of the most inviting toys are castoffs. It is amazing what the Weimaraner will prefer. A plastic bottle can keep them entertained for quite awhile. You can add as you go along. The more toys, the bigger the mess. Of course, picking them up is good for the waistline. As a side note, you may want to teach the Weimaraner how to clean up the room -- pick up their toys. That might be a pipedream. Emptying the clothes hamper would be more up their alley.
When your pup departs OwyheeStar they will be given a toy. This toy is most likely a plush ball; however, whatever you get will carry the scent of the mother and littermates. Pups who are flying normally get a rope bone--it is flatter for travel purposes. The ball-shaped toys tend to last a long time. For some reason, the ball-shaped toys are not as easy to chew. Several clients have shown us that the toy lasted years. We are amazed. Anyhow, the scent and the toy can prove invaluable.
In all honesty, you do not need a bucket of toys. The puppy will enjoy a few things just as much as a dozen. Some of the most inviting toys are castoffs. It is amazing what the Weimaraner will prefer. A plastic bottle can keep them entertained for quite awhile. You can add as you go along. The more toys, the bigger the mess. Of course, picking them up is good for the waistline. As a side note, you may want to teach the Weimaraner how to clean up the room -- pick up their toys. That might be a pipedream. Emptying the clothes hamper would be more up their alley.
When your pup departs OwyheeStar they will be given a toy. This toy is most likely a plush ball; however, whatever you get will carry the scent of the mother and littermates. Pups who are flying normally get a rope bone--it is flatter for travel purposes. The ball-shaped toys tend to last a long time. For some reason, the ball-shaped toys are not as easy to chew. Several clients have shown us that the toy lasted years. We are amazed. Anyhow, the scent and the toy can prove invaluable.
The Aggressive Chewer
The Monster Nylabone is on Dusty's Christmas List. Try a smaller version for the puppy! They have them in a three pack as well as the dinosaur shapes. The old standby is the Kong brand rubber toys. They can be stuffed with cream cheese or peanut butter. Some people freeze them to make them last longer. You puppy should have at least one medium-sized Puppy Kong. There are a number of toys labeled for aggressive chewing dogs. Some are better than others.
The Monster Nylabone is on Dusty's Christmas List. Try a smaller version for the puppy! They have them in a three pack as well as the dinosaur shapes. The old standby is the Kong brand rubber toys. They can be stuffed with cream cheese or peanut butter. Some people freeze them to make them last longer. You puppy should have at least one medium-sized Puppy Kong. There are a number of toys labeled for aggressive chewing dogs. Some are better than others.
Keep In Mind
Even with the best of choices, it is important to supervise the Weimaraner. Rubber toys go bad too--when in doubt, dump the toy. It isn't worth a trip to the emergency veterinary. The intestinal blockage that can result from bits of rubber, cloth, sponge, or material. It can become life threatening all too quick.
Even with the best of choices, it is important to supervise the Weimaraner. Rubber toys go bad too--when in doubt, dump the toy. It isn't worth a trip to the emergency veterinary. The intestinal blockage that can result from bits of rubber, cloth, sponge, or material. It can become life threatening all too quick.
