What to expect during puppyhood . . .

The first few weeks your Havanese is with you will be busy and demanding. There may be times when you wonder if getting a puppy was such a good idea. Hang in there! I promise it’ll get better. Just be patient and most of all don’t lose your sense of humor.

[Puppyproofing] - Puppies are like toddlers: curious, lively, and small. They will wander and get into mischief, so be sure to supervise! They love tissues and toilet paper! Just a reminder: unplug, remove or cover electrical cords; securely store cleaning supplies- detergent, bleach, paint, fertilizer, mothballs, antifreeze, etc; remove houseplants; keep craft supplies and children’s toys out of their reach; don’t use electric blankets or heating pads in their bedding.

[The Condo] - A puppy needs a place to call “home” too! Think of the crate as a “crib.” How much time does a baby spend in it?  They spend a lot at first, but less as they grow. Once a puppy reaches adulthood, I prefer a wire crate. Your plastic crate is still great for traveling and vet visits.

[Leash and Collar] - A thin nylon one piece collar seems to work best. I prefer one with a quick release buckle or a harness.

[Water and Food Dishes] - I prefer ceramic or metal bowls because they are easier to clean and don’t harbor bacteria. Some breeders use a water bottle so their faces stay dry.

[Toys] - Just like toddlers, puppies probe everything for chewability and edibility. Potentially harmful objects need to be kept out of their reach at all times. By the way, empty soda bottles (16 oz) make for excellent crinkle toys. The best toys are those that keep your pet's brain occupied (like Omega Paw Tricky Treats Ball). No toy, however, can replace time you spend with him/her.

[Bedtime] - Ideally, your new puppy should sleep near his/her "new family" at bedtime. You are now his/her new family or "pack". Your puppy wants to be with you whenever possible. He/she may whine or even howl the first few nights, but he'll feel a lot safer here than alone in another room. If that's not an option, then crate him/her, play soft music, leave a "ticking" clock and a warm water bottle under the bedding to sooth your puppy.

[Potty Training] - Begin immediately, but dont expect 100% success. From my experience, puppies tend to do great for a few weeks then backslide some. Praise and consistency is the key! By enclosing your puppy in a small area with his/her litter pan and crate, helps eliminate those middle of the night and/or early morning trips outside! As a last resort try the following: get a newspaper, roll it up very tight, secure it with a rubber band and leave it on the coffee table; when your puppy piddles in the house, chews a shoe, shreds tissues, or anything else naughty, take the newspaper and bang it on the top of YOUR head very hard while repeating, "I should have been watching my puppy more closely!"

[Teething] - From about 4 months to 7 months of age most Havanese will lose their puppy teeth. Don't be alarmed if you find a tooth! (Giving him an ice cube or a frozen sock may help.)