What to do with a new puppy

1. Work on housebreaking. Because a new puppy doesn't know not to go on the rug.
2. Learn its name. Your puppy probably won't respond to Sir Fluffypaws on the first try ... or on the fifteenth.
3. Basic commands. Sit, stay, come, lay down. Both you and your puppy will be happier once the basics are known.
4. Be careful when introducing to other animals. Some older animals do not like it when their home is invaded by an energetic baby. Don't try to thrust them together immediately. Take it slowly, and both critters could become best friends.
5. Pay attention to their personality. Your puppy is learning what kind of person you are, so you should do the same with them.
6. Don't spoil them. Yes, it is a new puppy. You want it to love you. But you also want it to listen to you and not constantly beg for treats.
7. Keep it in good health. Puppies can handle a lot, but they're still babies. Watch for signs that playtime is getting too rough or that the food isn't agreeing with its stomach.
8. Break bad habits. Shoe chewing? Bad idea. If you don't try to break bad behavior while your puppy is still a puppy, then it will be much more difficult to break it later on.
9. Make time for it. Don't get a puppy if you're going to be too busy to give it the care and attention it needs. Puppies are babies, and need a lot of love from you.
10. Remember that it will grow up. Puppies do not stay puppies. They get older, bigger, and even less cuddly. That isn't a bad thing. Because the puppy you've fallen in love with is still within that dog.