6 Weeks! Wellness and shot day. Valentines are Healthy!

This is the beginning for these puppies.

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They are close to being fully weaned.  It is time for future puppy owners to begin to prepare for their puppy.  Here is a quick checklist:

1. Bowls for water and food.  (also have some in the car for the ride home! There are travel bowls that accordion to a smaller size) I recommend a smaller set and a wider base for your home, a wide base prevents dogs from flipping the bowls.  Dogs often take some food and go elsewhere to eat it, don't be surprised if that happens, they usually only go a few feet away from the bowl. It is not something to be concerned about.  Each dog has their own preference.   I also recommend a mat to place the bowls on and select a place to feed your puppy.  It will be VITAL to schedule feeding times for house training.  Water will need to be offered more often.  

2. Crate and bed. (I recommend this for training and also as a safe haven - not a babysitter though- overnight with some potty breaks is fine). The smallest crate will not be sufficient.  This is a toy dog not a tea cup size.  Choose a crate that the pup can grow into, but that also has a divider.  Puppies will do their best not to urinate in their kennel, however, if it is too big they will use a corner of it.  Or if they have been left too long they will urinate.  Their bladders are tiny!  You will need to wait until they have enough strength to hold the urine before you can extend any time alone for the puppy. 

They need a space large enough to stand and turn around in.  We keep two beds in order to have a second while one is being washed.  You can also use old towels or blankets as the puppy will have accidents, they do not like the hard surface, give them  something to cuddle on.  I will give a better break down for house training.  This will be your preference, but I strongly recommend the scheduling and crate method.  It is the most humane, effective and speedy, if you see something that says a month or less...it is not real. Puppies do not have magic bladders that grow to full size in that time.

3. Puppy food and training treats. DO NOT FEED THEM YOUR FOOD. Maltese are a picky breed and Poodles are smart.  Once you start feeding them human food, they will stop eating their own.  They have taste, what can I say.  I will provide a small container for you with the food we are giving them.  Mix part with your food and gradually switch them over.  Otherwise, they will have gas and upset stomachs.  The most expensive brands cost more than the expensive meat from the grocery store.  Please choose a healthy brand but no need to go "all out" and spend more on the pup than you do your own family.  Read up and choose responsibly.

4. Puppy toys.    These are necessary.  Have a good selection.  Anytime the puppy chews or naws on something you don't want them to, grab a toy and say, "chew your toy".  This works!  They will know their toys and begin to make the connection what they can play with and what to leave alone. Everyone must be on the same page.  Remove anything that is not your pups toy.  They will understand and if you are consistent you will be amazed at how well this simple thing works.  Keep in mind, the puppies teeth are extremely sharp!  They will easily scratch you or your clothes.  They will teeth for a long time.  Their mouth is their hand, they don't recognize it may hurt. Use the toys to keep your hands safe and teach the pup manners.  They will lose their baby teeth as they get older.  Do not get too aggressive in a game of tug a war.  You can pull their teeth too soon.

5. Safe Space.  The puppy will need a space in the home that they cannot choke on anything or get into any trouble while able to exercise and play.  We have a kennel with a gate around it.  We have another gate where they can go for play and have another area for variety, or they have constant supervision if left for free play.  You may have a large mudroom, or another type of area.

6 Check your fence.  If you have a fenced yard remember these puppies are itty bitty.  You may think they can't get out.  Let me assure you, these pups are smart, athletic and can escape.  Check for any gaps.  If your fence is climbable,  you may need a plan B.  These puppies are not yet the best climbers, but they can climb to a small degree.  They are curious, so be aware. They should not be left alone outside until they are older.  Plan on going with out with them while they potty train or for outdoor play.

7. Enzyme cleaner.  Poop scooper. Use an enzyme cleaner for indoor messes and the poop scooper for outside.  

8. Baby Shampoo or dog shampoo and brush.  Pups get messy, particularly their bum.  They may need their bum washed often until they have all their shots and can be groomed properly.  You can also wash their eyes gently as they are prone to tears.

8. Vet.  For their shots or any emergencies.  

9. Puppy safe house.  Pick up any small items, kids toys, shoes and cords. Keep chocolate (especially baker's chocolate away from the puppy).  The chocolate will increase their heart rate, they will act really happy until their heart gives out to a heart attack.  All medicine!  Tylenol is especially awful.  These type of things cause horrendous symptoms that will be fatal to your puppy and heart wrenching to experience.  If they do eat, call your vet immediately, they may be able to help, but time would be most important.

10. Optional, doggie door. This will change your life as a pet owner.  This will not be applicable until your puppy is older and capable of pushing the door open.  However, once they are strong enough, it is wonderful.  We would recommend the brand we use.  It is insulated. Living in Wyoming it does not let in any cold air or wind.  It is more expensive, but it is also more durable and better looking than others. 

The puppies are sensitive in this video because of their shots, I ended it early because of that.  They are healthy and wonderful!  I did not film long or get each pup extremely well.  I hope to add another video later this week and let each puppy get their spotlight in.  Near the end of this week, I will be contacting you to make arrangements and answer any questions you may have.  Enjoy the video: I am a better breeder than I am video taker!