FRIENDS AND FUN
Healthy and sociable puppies interact with the world from an early age. As soon
as they have all the vaccines, they're ready to start socialising and playing with
other people and animals. If they don't have the right amount of exercise and play,
they can get bored and even develop unhealthy behaviours.
This guide will give you ideas on how to introduce your puppy into the world of
friends and fun.
PLAYING AND EXERCISING
Playing with them helps strengthen the bond between you two.
Most puppies need a minimum of 20 minutes of play every day, plus half an hour of
exercise.
Try play catch, fetch or throwing a ball. Give them different toys and observe which
one they prefer. Hide and seek is also a good game. If you have a garden, try hiding
a few treats and encourage the puppy to sniff them out.
As a workout, a leisurely half an hour walk is ideal. However, avoid strenuous exercises
involving twisting or jumping before their bones are fully developed.
They will love going to new places and can benefit from the new sights and sounds
too. To find out some great places to go play with your puppy check our
Park finder here.
SOCIALISING
Socialisation is very important in this early stage of life. It helps them feel
comfortable with other people and develops happy and well-behaved dogs.
Be sure to provide a variety of experiences such as riding in a car, bus or in a
lift and mixing with a variety of people, dogs and other animals.
Dog-friendly parks and cafes and events involving other pets are the ideal places
to start making friends. Check out our Events Calendar
here or our Park and Cafe Finder here.
TRAVELLING
Travelling with puppies is not easy but it's important that they learn how to deal
with different situations and restrictions.
If you're travelling by car your puppy should be restrained or placed in a travel
cage with plenty of newspaper and water. Their favourite toy can also help to keep
them entertained throughout the journey.
Never, under any circumstance, leave your puppy closed in a stationary car, even
if the weather seems cool. It can get really hot inside a vehicle and a puppy can
get quite nervous when realising you're not around.
When at your destination, try and keep him near you or in enclosed surroundings
as they may get caught up in territorial disputes with other dogs or even try to
wander back home.
Choose a place that's used to welcoming pets. To help you plan your next holiday
with your new puppy, check out Holiday Planner by clicking here.