Hi everyone! I’m bringing home a puppy in about three weeks and I want to make sure I’m setting him up for success. He’ll be a German Shepherd / Golden Retriever mix, currently six weeks old and already about the size of a nine-week pup. He’ll be around nine weeks old when we bring him home and his name will be Moose. He’s expected to be a big guy.
I’ve already set up a large play pen (photo attached) with a washable rug that has a waterproof backing, puppy pads, and food and water bowls. I also have a crate on the way, which will sit inside the pen. I took three weeks off work so I can be fully present during his transition and focus on bonding, training, and establishing routines.
We do already have another dog in the home. She’s a German Shepherd / Malamute mix and we rescued her when she was about a year and a half old. She’s almost four now and generally does well with other dogs, but it’s been a while since we’ve had a puppy in the house, so I’m feeling a little nervous and want to be thoughtful about introducing them and setting clear boundaries for both dogs.
For those of you who have raised puppies, especially large breeds, what are the must-haves people tend to forget? Is there anything you wish you had done differently in the first few weeks? I’d also love any advice on managing a puppy alongside an adult dog, particularly with two shepherd-type dogs in the home. I’m open to all suggestions, including the “learn from my mistakes” kind. I just want to give Moose the best possible start. Thanks so much in advance.
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