1: Keep those wet noses out of trouble! Puppies can get into trouble very quickly. A new puppy owner needs watch her puppy all of the time. When you cannot keep an eye on your puppy, it is a good idea to use some type of confinement. A crate is one great way to manage your puppy’s behavior when you are not home

2: Start training early: A good reward-based puppy class is the most important thing that you can do for your young puppy. Your puppy will become well-socialized and many behavior problems can be prevented before they ever start.

3: Socialization: You can never over-socialize your puppy. The first four months of your puppy’s life are the most impressionable. To become a confident and stable dog, a young puppy needs to be exposed to many different people, dogs, places, sounds and scents. Bringing your puppy in for grooming is a great way to introduce them to new environments, sounds, smells and people.

4: Puppy proof the house: Anything that you value should be put away until after the puppy stage. Also, keep a close eye on you puppy around electrical wires. Puppies love to chew on wires. Again, a crate is a great way to keep your puppy safe when you can’t be right there to watch her.

5: Going to the vet’s office: Drop by the vet’s office when you don’t have an appointment. Most veterinarians will allow this but give them a quick call before you come by. When you get to the vets, give your puppy some treats and have the office staff give some treats also. For the rest of your dog’s life going to the vet will not be a chore. You can also do this at a grooming shop.

6: Consistency: Have a game plan for everyone in the house to follow. Bad habits develop and many dogs become confused when half the family allows the puppy onto the furniture and the other half scolds the puppy for being on the furniture. Consistency is very important in training your young puppy or dog.

7: Have a support system: Keep a list of names and numbers of  experienced dog owners you can call for advice and referrals.

8: Keep ’em occupied: A bored dog equals a destructive dog. Give your pup toys that keep it busy and its brain stimulated. Kongs are an example of an engaging, entertaining toy.

9: Resist the whimpers: Try not to over-pamper your new pup. Don’t try to comfort the puppy every time you hear it whimper or cry–otherwise they’ll soon learn that’s how to get your attention.

10: Take lots of pictures: You will be amazed at how fast your puppy grows and changes. You will be thankful down the road for those pictures.

Source: buzzle.com