1) Vaccines - Vaccines are a good idea for every dog to help minimize both diseases and illness. By the time you get your puppy, the breeder should have already administered some vaccines. Be sure to check what vaccines have been given and when they were administered.

2) Feeding – Puppies should be fed dry puppy food and not normal dog food. Puppy food contains nutrients and proteins essential for a growing puppy.

3) Training - Training a puppy should be started at an early age. Commands such as sit, stay and basic toilet training should be started as early into a puppies life as possible. Puppy’s pick up things pretty quickly, so this is a perfect time to begin training.

4) Sleeping - Sleeping arrangements for your puppy should be decided upon well before you get your new puppy. Once you have let your dog know where it should be sleeping, it will be hard later down the track to move this to another spot. So unless you want your dog on the bed every night, resist the temptation of letting your puppy cuddle up with you.

5) Socialization - Once the puppy is old enough, socializing is a must. Introduce your puppy to other puppies and people to help the dog with meeting new people and animals.

These simple puppy tips and tricks can help ensure a successful transition from your puppy into a mature and confident dog. These tips will also help your family cope with the new arrival and the pressures that a new puppy can bring.