Are you puppy-ready or are you freaking out? With our handy guide, you can easily prepare and plan for the first days with your corgi puppy – and make the experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
AUTHOR
Editorial Team
CATEGORY
Corgi Puppies
POSTED ON
26 December 2024
Welcoming a corgi puppy into your home is one of life’s most exciting adventures! These adorable little bundles of energy will quickly become the heart of your household. But before you bring them home, it’s essential to prepare your space, your family, and yourself for this new furry friend.
Here’s a guide to help you and your home get puppy-ready in the most fun and practical way possible. 🐾
- Lay the Groundwork with Familiar Smells
Before bringing your Corgi puppy home, take a blanket to the breeder. Pick a blanket you have been using in your home for a while, in other words, one that has your smell on it. Ask the breeder to let the puppy sleep on the blanket or to place it in their play area. This blanket will carry the comforting smells of your pup’s first home and help little Corgi adjust more easily to its new surroundings when it first sets foot in your house.
- Create a Cosy Space
When your Corgi steps through the front door, let it roam freely about and explore its new home at its own pace.
Designate a Puppy Zone: Set up a safe, quiet area with a crate or playpen where your puppy can relax. Dogs are natural den animals, so they’ll appreciate having a retreat that’s all their own.
Stock it with Comforts: Include a soft bed, the familiar blanket from the breeder, toys, and water. Avoid high-traffic areas like the living room or your kids’ bedrooms, if you have kids, to keep it peaceful.
- Puppy-Proof Your Home
Corgis are curious little adventurers, and they’ll sniff out anything unsafe in no time. To make sure they don’t injure or hurt themselves, keep an eye out for potentially dangerous items.
Think Like a Corgi: If there’s a sticking nail, open window, or hole in the garden, your pup will find it. Be proactive to avoid accidents.
Check for Hazards: Secure loose wires, remove toxic plants, and block off dangerous areas like stairs or unfenced gardens.
For more detailed guidance check out our in-depth Guide to Puppy Proofing your Home.
- Establish a Feeding Routine
Set Feeding Times: Feed your puppy after the family has eaten to establish your leadership role in the “pack.”
Build Bonding Moments: Prepare your Corgi’s food in front of them, and use feeding as an opportunity to start basic training. Call their name, give the command “here,” and reward them with food when they respond.
- Teach Your Corgi Puppy Its Name
It’s important to teach your puppy its name if the dog breeder hasn’t done so already. Focus on repeating the name and getting your Corgi’s attention, not on talking too much.
Repetition and Reward: Say your Corgi’s name calmly and positively. When it responds, praise your pup with belly rubs, affection or offer a toy or a treat. Your dog’s name is a positive call you should only use to call him to you.
Avoid Negative Associations: Never use the name to scold your Corgi pup. Do not shout out his name with anger when it does something wrong. Instead, use a firm “no” when your puppy displays unwanted behaviour.
- Establish House Rules
Dogs are creatures of habit. Teach them to do something in a certain way and they will follow the rules. However, when your corgi pup arrives, it will not know the difference between right and wrong or what’s allowed and what’s not.
It’s important to immediately make your house rules clear so that your dog can adjust quickly. Decide on rules for furniture access, bedtime routines, and feeding schedules.
- Introduce Your Puppy to the Outdoors
Take your new puppy outside for potty training as soon as it arrives. Choose a specific spot and encourage your little Corgi to use it regularly. This consistency helps your dog understand where it is supposed to go.
For more guidance on potty training your pup, follow our in-depth, step-by-step tutorial.
- Prepare Your Family for Puppy Life
Its important to set some expectations and boundaries not just for your dog, but for the human members of the family as well.
Puppies need time to rest and decompress, just like people do! Make sure your family members, especially the young ones understand that and leave your puppy alone when it is tired or asleep. Teach your kids how to approach the puppy gently and respect its need for alone time.
- Stock Up on Essentials
Finally, it’s vital to stock up on all the essential supplies before your puppy arrives. The most important things you must stock up on include food, treats, poop bags, a dog collar and a leash, as well as dog grooming accessories. For more in-depth info, check out our full guide to What You Need for a New Puppy.
- Plan for Vet Care
Schedule a vet visit within the first week of bringing your puppy home. Your dog will most likely need an initial health check and vaccinations. Research a vet that aligns with your preferences, and ensure you know where to go in case of emergencies.
Bringing a Corgi puppy into your life is a big change that can be filled with joy, laughter, and snuggles. By preparing your household and following these tips, you’ll set the stage for a strong bond and a happy, well-adjusted puppy. Get ready—your new best friend is about to take over your heart (and your home)! 🐾
