What to Expect

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Your puppy is coming home with you soon and that is so exciting! Remember that this is an overwhelming experience for her and she is going to miss her Mother and litter mates. But not to worry, you will be the perfect replacement and she will show you that every day after a week or two.

We bring each puppy on a few car rides before coming home with you but your puppy may still get car sick on the way home. Not only is your puppy stressed and anxious, getting used to cars takes some longer then others. , and an old towel, some kitchen towels, wet wipes and a bottle of water are good to have on hand. Putting your puppy in a crate that's the safest way for him to travel.  If you can, place the crate on your lap or in the seat next to you so he feels less scared.

REMEMBER your puppy has only had one set of vaccinations which does not make him immune to common canine transmitted diseases. Do your best to avoid letting your puppy go potty in public rest stops where dozens of dogs stop a day.  Don’t forget to take your puppy to the vet within 24-48 hrs after you bring him home.

You may notice some personality changes in your new puppy during the first few days. Your confident pup may become quiet and withdrawn during the transition and may not be eating or playing much at all. This is normal and generally only lasts for a few days.

Prepare yourself for your puppy to come around full swing. Puppies are FULL of energy (in between their many naps) and she is going to be ready to play! With this new playfulness, your puppy may begin the very normal nipping and biting behavior.  Chewing is part of basic canine behavior and fulfills their needs as they are teething. When your puppy tries to use your fingers as a chew toy, simply tell her “no” and re-direct her to an actual toy. She will get the idea over time.

Another thing to expect during the first few weeks is lots of whining. Your puppy will most likely whine and whimper when you are out of sight because he is used to always having someone there and he is missing his mom. Instincts are telling him that he needs to be next to you in order to be safe, but he will learn that he is safe when you’re away too.  If you give in to the whining when he is in his crate you have just taught him that whining delivers you. Don’t let your canine Einstein outsmart you or he will never get past this phase.

Your puppy needs to learn that it's okay to be alone for short periods, and that you will always come back. If he doesn't learn this he will turn out to be a VERY clingy, insecure dog with separation anxiety.

Now that I have prepared you for some of the potential hardships I will also let you know that you can expect your heart to be full of love from your puppy. She will look to you for her every move and study you and your expressions every day. Researchers have found that dogs learn to mimic our behavior and can even learn to smile just to get one out of you. If you smile and laugh at your puppy, your puppy will only do what she is doing more. Her number one goal is to earn your approval and love. Aussiedoodles are incredibly expressive and sensitive dogs. Your Aussiedoodle can learn to sense your stress before you even do and will bring you loving comfort in difficult times. She will be there to help get you outside, out on the town (because you will want to show your gorgeous puppy off) and out of your head. She is going to be your new best friend. Expect lots and lots of kisses and love.

 
Kelly Ridge