New Doodle Puppy Checklist

So, you’ve decided to welcome a doodle puppy into your life. Congratulations! Prepare yourself for a whirlwind of fluff, cuddles, and the occasional (okay, frequent) bout of chaos. But don’t worry – we’ve got your back. Here’s your ultimate new doodle puppy checklist to ensure you’re ready for every wag, woof, and wiggle.

Before Bringing Your Doodle Home

Puppy-Proof Your House

Your doodle pup will be curious and full of energy, so it's time to puppy-proof your home:

• Secure loose wires and cables: Those little teeth are sharper than they look! Make sure to tuck away any electrical cords or cables to prevent chewing hazards.
• Remove toxic plants: Ensure your home is safe by eliminating any plants that could be harmful to your pup. Common household plants like lilies, poinsettias, and certain ferns can be toxic if ingested.
• Create a safe space: Set up a cozy area with a bed, toys, and food and water bowls. This will give your doodle a designated spot to feel secure and at home.

Stock Up on Supplies

Here’s what you’ll need to have ready before your doodle’s arrival:

• Crate: Perfect for training and giving your doodle a safe, comfy place to retreat. Look for one that’s appropriately sized so they have room to move but not so big that they can make a mess at one end and sleep at the other.
• Puppy pads: House-training can be a messy business. Puppy pads are essential for those early days when accidents are bound to happen.
• Food and water bowls: Stainless steel or ceramic are best – easy to clean and chew-proof. Avoid plastic bowls as they can harbor bacteria and be chewed up.
• High-quality puppy food: Consult your breeder or vet for the best options. Puppies have specific nutritional needs that must be met to ensure healthy growth.
• Toys: Chew toys, plush toys, interactive toys – you can never have too many! Toys help with teething and keep your doodle entertained.
• Grooming supplies: Brushes, combs, and puppy shampoo. Doodles need regular grooming to keep those coats looking fabulous. Start early to get your pup used to being groomed.
• Collar and leash: Get ready for those adorable first walks. Choose an adjustable collar and a sturdy leash that’s comfortable to hold.

Create a Doodle Folder

Organize all your doodle’s important documents by creating a folder – either physical or digital. Include records such as information from the breeder or rescue organization, vaccination history, health check-ups, and any other relevant paperwork. This will make it easy to keep track of your doodle's health and care needs.

Register and Microchip Your Doodle

Registering and microchipping your doodle is crucial for their safety. A microchip provides a permanent form of identification, and registering your doodle with local authorities ensures they're legally recognized. If your doodle ever gets lost, these steps significantly increase the chances of a happy reunion.

Schedule a Vet Visit

Before bringing your doodle home, schedule a vet visit for a thorough check-up and to set up a vaccination schedule. This is crucial for ensuring your pup starts off on the right paw. Finding a vet close to home is beneficial for convenience and in case of emergencies. Additionally, identify where the nearest emergency vet is located – knowing this in advance can save precious time during an urgent situation.

Settling In

The First Few Days

The first days with your new doodle pup are all about getting them comfortable in their new home:

• Introduce them to their crate: Make it cozy with a soft blanket and some toys. Encourage them to spend time there with treats and praise to create a positive association.
• Start house-training immediately: Patience and consistency are key. Take your doodle out frequently and reward them for going potty outside.
• Establish a routine: Doodles thrive on routine, so set regular times for feeding, potty breaks, and playtime. A consistent schedule helps your doodle feel secure and understand what to expect.

Socialization

Early socialization is essential for a well-adjusted doodle:

• Introduce new sights, sounds, and experiences: Help your doodle get used to different environments. Expose them to various noises, surfaces, and people to build confidence.
• Meet other dogs and people: Arrange playdates and short walks to meet the neighbors. Positive interactions with other dogs and humans will help your doodle develop good social skills.

Budgeting for Your Doodle

Owning a doodle isn’t just a commitment of love and time – it’s a financial one too. Here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect:

• Initial costs: Crate, bed, toys, grooming supplies, food and water bowls, collar, leash, and vet check-ups. Expect to spend around $500-700 initially to get all the essentials.
• Monthly costs: Food, grooming, toys, and routine vet care. Budget around $100-200 per month depending on your doodle’s needs and any special dietary requirements.
• Unexpected costs: Emergencies happen. It’s wise to have an emergency fund or pet insurance. This can cover unexpected vet bills and give you peace of mind.

Health and Vet Visits

Regular Check-Ups

Doodles need regular vet visits to stay healthy:

• Vaccinations: Keep your doodle up to date on vaccinations to protect them from common diseases.
• Parasite prevention: Regular treatment for fleas, ticks, and worms is essential to keep your doodle healthy and comfortable.
• Dental care: Brush those teeth! Dental health is crucial for your doodle’s overall well-being. Regular brushing and dental check-ups can prevent serious health issues down the line.

Grooming

Doodles are known for their fabulous coats, which need regular grooming:

• Brushing: Daily brushing helps prevent mats and tangles. Make it a bonding time and part of your daily routine.
• Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks with a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo. Too frequent bathing can strip the natural oils from their coat.
• Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks, depending on your doodle’s coat type. Professional grooming can help maintain a neat appearance and healthy coat.

Routines and Daily Life

Feeding Schedule

Stick to a regular feeding schedule to keep your doodle’s digestion on track:

• Puppies: 3-4 small meals a day to meet their high energy and growth needs.
• Adults: 2 meals a day is usually sufficient once they’re fully grown. Adjust the portion sizes based on your vet’s recommendations and your doodle’s activity level.

Exercise and Playtime

Doodles are energetic and playful:

• Daily walks: At least 30 minutes to an hour of walking each day. This helps burn off energy and keeps your doodle fit and healthy.
• Playtime: Interactive toys, fetch, and training sessions keep their minds sharp. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for these intelligent pups.

Training

Start training early and be consistent:

• Basic commands: Sit, stay, come, and leash training. Positive reinforcement with treats and praise works wonders.
• Positive reinforcement: Reward-based training builds trust and encourages good behavior. Avoid harsh corrections, as doodles respond best to gentle guidance.

With this comprehensive checklist, you’re well on your way to being the best doodle parent ever. Enjoy the journey with your new fluffy family member – it’s going to be a delightful adventure filled with wagging tails and endless cuddles!