It's amazing how a small dog can enter your heart in a big way! If you're considering getting a small dog puppy, we're sure you want to create a warm and relaxed home for it to feel comfortable in. By preparing for a new small dog puppy in advance, it's the beginning to a wonderful journey ahead!

Thinking of getting a small dog?
Just like any new puppy "parent-to-be," you probably have lots of questions about caring for a new bundle of joy. Naturally, you would want the absolute best for the new addition to your family. So, here are a few guidelines you should consider before you get a small dog. Firstly, evaluate your house or apartment size. Your home will definitely influence the size, breed and type of dog you choose. A smaller dog breed is typically a better choice for a smaller home or apartment. However, small dogs still need plenty of exercise. Going out for regular walks or playing in a nearby park is something you will enjoy doing together.

Although giving your small dog love and attention will be easy, life can get busy. It's important to decide whether you can make room in your life to consistently care for a new little friend. It's an ongoing commitment. In fact, it can be a 15-year commitment on average. Think about setting a schedule so you'll be able to dedicate specific, quality time together.

If you live with more than one person, talk to them and make sure they can help you care for and play with the dog when you're not available. Family members should be just as excited as you are. Make sure that everyone is on board and they understand their role in caring for your new small dog.

And speaking of families, if you have young children, check that the breed you choose is kid-friendly. You can get familiar with different breeds by visiting dog shows, talking to breeders, asking other dog owners, and reading our breed guide, right here online. By doing this, you'll learn about different small dogs' dispositions and how well they get along with children.

Lastly, set a budget. It's simple. Plot out all aspects of caring for your dog, like costs for food, toys, bedding, grooming, dog-walking and/or daycare, training, veterinary services, dog tags and pet insurance. Understanding these costs in advance and shopping around for reasonable prices will help you stay on track. Also, keep in mind that the fun times you'll share together is a reward that's absolutely priceless.

When you've picked your puppy
Now that you've decided that you want a puppy more than ever, here are a few questions to consider when choosing one from a pet store or breeder.

One question you should ask is to see the puppy interact with its mother and father. This is a smart way to predict the puppy's size and temperament once it grows to be its parents' age. Also, ask for information on what foods the puppy has been fed to date, how much it should be eating and how often. So, if the pet store manager or breeder suggests a plan, stick to it for the first few days. Gradually introduce it to the brand of food you feel is best for your small dog, but be sure to remember to do this transition slowly since big changes may upset your puppy's stomach or cause discomfort.

Lastly, ask for your puppy's paperwork containing registration (breeder specific), and any family health history information. If possible, make sure you have your small dog's health-care history on file, too, so you can follow its current vaccination and worming schedule. Within a few days, take your new puppy to the vet for a thorough exam.

Is your home puppy-proof?
Puppies are certainly fun, playful and curious! And since small-breed puppies are smaller in size, they can get into more places… and more trouble. So, before you bring your new puppy home, use these guidelines to ensure your puppy's safety against potential hazards.

Prevent your puppy from ingesting hazardous substances:
• Ensure that all household cleaning products are stored safely away
• Keep the garage off-limits - it's tempting to lick up poisonous chemicals like antifreeze and motor oil from the floor
• Do not place potentially harmful houseplants where your little friend can reach them
• Never give chocolate to your small dog since it can cause serious illness
Keep your puppy from getting in harm's way:
• If you have a yard, ensure that your fence is securely fastened down in all places, to stop your little friend from getting away
• Prevent your small dog from chewing on electrical cords by coiling or hiding them away
• Put yourself in your little friend's paws and ensure that there are no sharp objects in its line-of-sight
• If you have a hot tub or swimming pool ensure that it's covered when not in use to prevent your special friend from falling in
• Make sure that your precious pooch has plenty of shade and fresh water if it's outside for long periods of time

Introducing your puppy to your home
Congratulations! The first day you bring your new puppy home is a big moment for the both of you. It is one of the most precious times in your relationship together. You're probably a little nervous about how it'll react to its new environment. But with a little preparation, you'll help make its first experience a positive one. Here are a few things to consider before and during your puppy's arrival.

First off, what's your new pup's name? This is a big decision! It should be a name that matches its personality, is simple to pronounce, and is easy for the kids to remember. Also, make sure to name your puppy upon its arrival, in order to build a personal rapport. You will need to be consistent and use its name repeatedly, so your small friend will know you're calling it and learn to respond.

A small detail that will make a big difference is "toilet" training. Just like you, your puppy will appreciate having a familiar spot of its own to "do its business". Take some time to help your little friend find a spot and if it gets the job done show some praise. If it decides that now is not the time to go, no worries - simply head back inside and make sure to take it back to its familiar spot next time.

And now for the moment you've been waiting for! Take your puppy inside to its new home. Imagine all the new scents that your little friend will detect - give it a chance to take it all in. Then introduce your puppy to the comfy space where it will sleep, whether in a dog bed or crate. Of course, be prepared for any inevitable accidents by lining the floors with some newspaper. By giving your little companion non-toxic chew toys and a clean blanket, you'll help it get cozy - fast. You'll notice that it loves to chew on everything, so buy toys that are made specifically for small dogs, which can't be swallowed and are relatively indestructible.

You'll also want to show your new puppy where it can eat and drink comfortably. Fill its food and water bowls in advance with the foods the breeder or store manager recommended so your puppy can smell it and dig right in. However, make sure that you follow the feeding guides outlined on each bag. Also, if you're introducing new food to your puppy, be sure you transition it the correct way.

Now for the best part...creating special moments together! From day one, you couldn't help but fall in love with each other. And every moment going forward will be even more special. There's no question that you're both excited to be in each other's lives. Through fun times and playful moments together, you'll create a very unique and special bond.

If there are kids around the house, they'll be just as excited too, so make sure you teach them how to how to treat the puppy with care, so as not to scare it. Your puppy may be a little anxious the first time it enters its new home, so everyone should be friendly and understanding.

From deciding to get a new small dog puppy to bringing it home, you've taken big steps to ensure your relationship starts off on the right foot. And by setting a loving and caring example, there's no doubt that you'll make your precious "baby" feel right at home in no time!

The information above is of a general nature, and may be used as a handy guide to help you monitor your pet's well being and development. It should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. All decisions regarding your pet are your responsibility.