You recently adopted a puppy, so obviously you want to spoil them! When pampering your puppy, it’s very important not to do things that can backfire later, such as encouraging them to eat your socks or chew on the furniture. These messes won’t be so cute when they’re a full-grown dog. Here are 10 safe ways to spoil your dog, from giving puppy chews to getting them a doggie tent:
Get them a new treat.
The most obvious way to spoil your dog is to give them a new dog chew! If you always forget to buy new dog treats at the store, then consider signing up for a treat subscription service that will deliver the treats straight to your door so you don’t have to think about it. You can also try making homemade treats, but be extra careful not to include any ingredients that might upset your dog’s stomach.
Let them pick out a new toy.
Puppies are destructive, and they can go through toys at a truly astounding rate. (Though it’s still better for them to tear up their own toys than the carpet or walls.) If your toy collection is looking a little thin, take them to the pet store and let them pick out a new toy. This is also a great chance to work on their manners and socialize them in a new environment. Try to pick an off-peak time when it will be less busy so they don’t get overwhelmed.
Give them a massage.
Dogs of all ages love physical touch, and puppies are no different. If you want to give them some more love than your usual pets, consider giving them a puppy massage. Just make sure to be gentle and not push too hard since puppies are still growing and their bodies aren’t as strong and resilient as an adult’s.
Buy them a new accessory.
This one totally depends on your dog because some of them absolutely hate wearing hats or sweaters or accessories of any kind. But some dogs love them, and if your dog is one of them, then your puppy will no doubt enjoy adding to their apparel collection. Always let your puppy’s comfort guide this decision, and don’t force your dog into something (even if you think they look cute!) when they clearly don’t want to wear it.
Visit a new dog park.
Your puppy will be ready to visit a dog park about seven to 10 days after their last round of vaccinations (which usually happens around 16-18 weeks). Once they are fully vaccinated and ready to socialize, start taking them to the dog park on a regular basis to get them used to being outside around other dogs. Once they are comfortable with that, start branching out to new parks to stimulate them and prevent boredom.
Go on a day trip.
Getting your dog used to car rides is an important part of puppy training. Many puppies also have an adventurous spirit, so taking a day trip to new places can be a really awesome way to spoil them. Pick a dog-friendly location, whether that’s a state park or an outdoor pub, and go on an outing together.
Try a doggie car seat.
Speaking of car rides, you need a way to secure your dog in the car so they can’t scamper around while you’re driving (or go flying if you suddenly have to stop). Most people just secure their dog in a crate, or attach their harness to something stationary. But if you want to really spoil your dog, then consider getting them a doggie seat, which gives them a boost so they can look out the window while keeping them contained in a padded enclosure. Their harness clips into the booster seat so they can’t jump out, allowing both of you to travel safely.
Try out a doggie stroller.
If your puppy is still too young for walks outside, that doesn’t mean that you can’t take them out. If you’ve got extra cash to burn, then you can get them a doggie stroller, which will allow you to take them on walks while still keeping them safe. In fact, many dog owners with small dogs in cities find that using doggie strollers is the most convenient way to walk their dogs even when they are fully grown.
Upgrade their gear as they grow.
Puppies are constantly growing, which means that they need stuff every few weeks or months. If your dog’s current collar is looking a little small, then get them a new one that is a better fit for their current size and a new leash to go with it. You should also consider upgrading their food and water bowls and their beds as well to better reflect their current size. Consider donating the other items to a humane society or animal shelter so they don’t go to waste.
Set up an outdoor tent just for them.
Is a separate tent purely for your puppy necessary? Not strictly speaking, but it’s not as impractical as you might think. Dogs can overheat quickly in the sun due to their fur coats, so they are sure to appreciate having their own shady tent to lie in during the summer. You can also set up the tent inside to create a den effect and make them a cozy spot to lie down in.
What are your favorite ways to spoil a puppy? Did we miss any pampering tips on this list? Let us know in the comments below. We can always use more ideas for how to spoil our fur babies.