Preparing For Your Dog

What are good names for dogs?

Dog names are what you really want to choose, and many dogs end up with many names. So for example, if you call a dog Fanny, she becomes Fanny Bananny. However, it is a good idea, if you can, to choose a name that's maybe one or two syllables. So, Fanny, Ava, Ruby, Laudie, Hedda, as these are names that I choose, and I like old fashioned names. I've got a client who has Kookaburra right now, and I said to her when I went to see her, "What's it going to be for short"?, and she said "Oh, Kookaburra". Well, if you want to say Kookaburra, go ahead. The dog will respond, it's not a problem.

What do I have to buy for the dog before I take him home?

My most successful clients see me before they get the dog because we outfit them with everything they need. Whether you get a puppy or a rescue dog, a crate is essential. Proper chew toys are essential, as are leashes, food and water bowls, and appropriate food. There's a myriad of products out there right now that will make your life so much easier with your new dog.

Should I cuddle the new dog if he cries during the first night?

If, when you get your new dog, it's a real 'puppy' puppy, like a 7- to 8-week-old, I would put that little puppy in my bed for the first night, because that puppy has been torn from its siblings and its mum. If it's an older dog, we need to set boundaries right away and we need to put that dog in the crate; I will be a little bit punitive, I'll say "Quiet" and I might smack the crate: not the dog, but the crate. It's important to set boundaries and rules right away, but with an infant, go with your instincts.