Things You'll Need
- Puppy training crate
- Puppy food
- Collar
- Leash
- Blanket
- Brush
- Puppy shampoo
Instructions
Begin with the basics when you start the process of raising your canine companion. Prepare your home for the arrival of your new cocker spaniel puppy. Remove any dangerous objects from reach of your puppy so it will not chew them. Be sure to provide a training crate to help teach your puppy boundaries. Cover the floor of the crate with a blanket for a soft sleeping area. Purchase food that is especially formulated for puppies to meet its nutritional needs. Put your new puppy on a regular feeding, sleeping and potty schedule the first day and be consistent. Socialize your cocker spaniel early by taking it around other dogs and people at a young age. This will prevent your puppy from being fearful. If you start proper care and training of your puppy the day you bring it home, behavior issues will be less likely to occur.
Start potty training on the first day. Keep your cocker spaniel puppy crated except when it is eating, playing or spending time with you. Every time you take your puppy out of the crate, take it outside for a bathroom break. Be sure to take your puppy out regularly, at least once every few hours until it has mastered the idea that outside is bathroom time.
Keep in mind the importance of routine vet care. Make sure your cocker spaniel puppy is current on routine puppy vaccines when you bring it home. Follow up with booster vaccines as recommended by your veterinarian to help prevent diseases. This is vital because some diseases, like parvo or distemper, can kill puppies in a matter of days. As your cocker spaniel puppy gets older, be sure to have it vaccinated for rabies. Don't forget the importance of spaying and neutering to make your puppy healthier and prevent unwanted litters. Follow up each year with your veterinarian throughout the life of your friend to maintain good health.
Train your cocker spaniel puppy to walk on a leash starting at 3 to 4 months of age. By then, it will be steady on its feet, and will be acclimated to the area where you will be walking. Purchase a leash that's not too long and a collar that fits snugly but not tight around your puppy's neck. Start slowly and gently lead your puppy. Pull the leash gently to show your puppy where to go, and to decrease tugging. Do not let your puppy run wildly ahead of you because this will result in an adult dog that is impossible to control on a leash.
Remember that grooming is an important part of raising cocker spaniels. Their flowing, soft fur requires regular brushing with a soft bristle brush, and occasional baths with a mild puppy shampoo. Start brushing your puppy on a daily basis when you bring it home. This will prevent fear of grooming later in life. Clean your puppy's ears and around the eyes, and give baths once every few weeks. If you start a grooming routine early, your cocker spaniel will see grooming time as a bonding activity for both of you.
Continue proper care, consistent training, healthful nutrition and routine vet care throughout your cocker spaniel's life. Sometimes, after the thrill of puppyhood has passed, owners forget that adult dogs still need care and affection. Adjust routines to fit your growing dog's needs. Switch to an adult formula dog food to maintain nutritional needs. And don't forget to visit your veterinarian once a year, even if your cocker spaniel appears healthy. If you show your companion that you love it by seeing to these needs, behavior issues won't become a problem and your pet will stay healthy and active for its lifetime.