National Puppy Day – Preparing for A New Puppy

National Puppy Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate puppies and, if you’re bringing home a new furry friend, get everything ready for their big arrival. A new puppy means fun, snuggles, and a lot of responsibility. Preparation makes all the difference, from puppy-proofing your house to picking the right food and water bowls.

First things first—puppy supplies! You'll need a comfy dog bed, a sturdy leash, and plenty of chew toys (because puppies love to nibble). Stock up on training pads, poop bags, and cleaning supplies because accidents will happen. Crate and potty training starts early, so proper setup is necessary.

Socialization is as important as good behavior, so introduce your pup to other dogs, new sounds, and different environments. The American Kennel Club recommends early training to help your puppy grow into a well-behaved family member. Regular grooming with nail clippers and the right tools keeps them healthy, and vaccinations keep them safe.

Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but it takes planning. A few hours of prep can make life easier for both you and your new best friend. So, grab those food bowls, treats, and rope toys—it's time to welcome your new four-pawed family member!

National Puppy Day History 101 

Believe it or not, National Puppy Day was established to help raise awareness around puppy mills and the number of puppies that need to be rescued or adopted each year. Established in 2006 by Colleen Paige, the same person who created National Cat Day, National Dog Day, and other popular national pet holidays, National Puppy Day has quickly gained popularity with the help of social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.

Today, one of the best and most popular ways to celebrate this special day is by posting a picture with your puppy on your social media account using #NationalPuppyDay. This small feat inspires those who don't have a dog to go out and possibly find one. With spring and summertime being the highest intake season at local pet shelters, this national holiday couldn't fall on a better date.

Whether you have a puppy or not, there are many ways to celebrate this fun and memorable day. From donating your time or money to spending quality time with your pup, we've got every possible way to celebrate. 

Preparing Your Home for a Puppy

Puppy-proofing your space, setting up designated areas, and choosing the right supplies will help create a smooth transition.

Puppy-Proofing Your Space 

Puppies love to explore, chew, and get into places they shouldn’t. Before your pup arrives, take the time to remove potential hazards:

• Secure electrical cords to prevent chewing accidents.

• Move toxic plants, cleaning supplies, and small objects out of reach.

• Block off unsafe areas with baby gates or closed doors.

• Keep shoes, remote controls, and other chewable items off the floor.

• Create a safe zone where your pup can rest and play without trouble.

Creating a Designated Sleeping and Play Area

Your new furry family member needs a comfortable space to sleep and play. Choose a quiet spot away from heavy foot traffic but still close enough to feel part of the family.

• Crate training helps with house training and gives your puppy a safe retreat.

• Soft bedding provides comfort but should be durable and washable.

• A designated play area with interactive toys helps with mental stimulation and keeps your pup entertained.

Choosing the Right Bed, Crate, and Toys

Your pup will spend much time sleeping, playing, and learning. The right supplies will help with comfort and training.

• A sturdy crate aids in potty training and provides a cozy den.

• A well-padded dog bed supports growing joints.

• Chew toys help with teething and prevent destructive chewing.

• Rope toys encourage bonding and playful interactions. 

Essential Supplies to Have 

Stocking up on the right supplies makes caring for your puppy easier.

• Food and water bowls – Puppies need easy access to fresh water and food. The Petmate Easy Reach Diner Elevated Feeder helps with digestion by keeping food and water bowls at a comfortable height.

• High-quality puppy food and treats – Nutritious food supports growth. Petmate Dog Treats are great for tasty rewards for puppy training and reinforcing good behavior.

• Collar, harness, and leash – A secure collar and harness ensure safe walks. The Petmate Lil Spikes Leather Custom Fit Collar is adjustable for a secure and comfortable fit. Pair it with the Petmate Adjustable Standard Step-In Core Harness that provides better control during walks. A reliable leash like the Petmate Standard Core Nylon Dog Leash is durable and lightweight for everyday use.

• Crate and bedding – A crate helps with training and gives your puppy a safe retreat. The Petmate 2 Door Wire Puppy Crate is durable and easy to clean. It is also great for crate training and providing a safe space for your pup. For extra comfort, add the PetFusion Cuddler Bed for a restful sleep.

• Toys for teething and mental stimulation – Puppies need chew toys to ease teething pain and keep them entertained. The JW Puddle Stone Pop Puppy Teether Chew Toy and JW Puppy Connect Teething Chew Toy provide both comfort and fun. 

Understanding Puppy Health and Wellness 

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but their health and wellness should be top priorities. Proper care helps them grow into a happy, healthy, furry family member.

First Vet Visit: Vaccinations, Deworming, and Check-Ups

A puppy’s first vet visit is essential for a healthy start. The vet will check their weight, heart, and overall condition. They will also begin core vaccinations, which protect against diseases like parvovirus and distemper. Puppies need multiple rounds of shots, starting at six to eight weeks old. Deworming is also necessary to remove parasites that can cause digestive issues. Regular check-ups ensure proper growth and development.

Importance of Spaying and Neutering

Spaying and neutering prevent unwanted litter and help reduce certain health risks. Neutering male dogs lowers the chances of testicular cancer and aggressive behavior. Spaying females prevents uterine infections and reduces the risk of breast cancer. Many shelters and veterinarians recommend the procedure at around six months of age.

Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention

Puppies need protection from fleas, ticks, and heartworms. These parasites can cause serious health issues, including skin irritation, anemia, and even fatal heart disease. Monthly preventatives, available as chewable tablets or topical treatments, keep them safe. Always consult a vet before choosing a product to ensure the proper dosage for your pup’s age and weight.

Signs of Common Puppy Illnesses

Knowing the signs of illness helps pet owners take quick action. Watch for:

• Loss of appetite – This could indicate digestive issues or infection.

• Vomiting or diarrhea – Parasites, viruses, or diet changes may cause this.

• Coughing or wheezing – Can signal respiratory infections or kennel cough.

• Lethargy – Puppies are playful, so unusual tiredness is a red flag.

• Swollen belly – This could mean worms or digestive problems.

If a puppy shows these symptoms for more than a few hours, contact a vet immediately. Caring for a new furry friend requires attention to health and wellness. From vaccinations to parasite prevention, taking the proper steps ensures they grow into a happy, healthy family member.

Why You Should Celebrate National Puppy Day

About 30 years ago, dogs were just considered the family pet. It was usual for dogs to stay outside all day and eat scraps from dinner leftovers. It was just the way it was. However, over the last decade, dogs have become more than just family pets. They are now considered family members. Some even consider their dogs their children. Dogs have become such important parts of the family because of their loyalty and the companionship they offer.

If you have a puppy, celebrate National Puppy Day to show your puppy how much you love and appreciate them. Whether you got your puppy for your mental health, well-being, or companionship or because you have extra love to give away, your puppy didn't choose you. You chose your puppy, and loving your puppy a little extra on this special day will only strengthen the bond between you two.

Celebrating Our Furry Friends: Spreading Awareness and Love on National Puppy Day

National Puppy Day is one of the most popular pet holidays. This special day aims to raise awareness around puppy mills and the thousands of puppies available for adoption every year. By posting on social media using #NationalPuppyDay, you help bring awareness to this cause. Dogs have become extremely important members of the family over the last decade. Celebrating National Puppy Day with your pup doesn't have to be complicated. It can be as simple as taking a walk! Whatever you decide to do, HAPPY NATIONAL PUPPY DAY!