I recently participated as a panelist during a Twitter chat with Simple Solution and renowned Veterinarian, Dr. Evan Antin. The topic of the chat was “The New Pet Life” bringing a new pet into the home. Welcoming a new puppy into your family is a wonderful experience, but can also be challenging for both the experienced and novice pet owners. I’ve partnered with Simple Solution to pass along some of the wonderful advice Dr. Antin shared during our Twitter chat.

If you’re not familiar with Dr. Evan Antin, he is a bit of an Instagram Vet superstar. He’s an animal expert and exotic animal veterinarian at Conejo Valley Veterinary Hospital.

Dog-Proofing Your Home

Dog-proofing your home is a very important, first step for new puppy owners. You want to make sure that your home is safe for a new dog, and that you have all of the supplies you will need. Puppies will chew on pretty much anything they can get their paws on. This includes electrical cords, and small toys that can be a choking hazard. You might be surprised by what your puppy will find appetizing. I came home from work one day to find that Winston had chewed up the heels on every pair of leather shoes in my closet. Dr Antin’s advice:

A1: One important tip is picking up all small objects in the house that your puppy could possibly chew and swallow. #petlifechat #SZ16

— Dr. Evan Antin (@EvanAntin) August 2, 2016

Provide a Safe Place for Your Puppy to Stay

New dogs need a place where they can feel safe, when you are not at home and away from all the noise of a busy family. Crates are a great option for providing a sense of safety, and keeping your dog out of trouble. Just be sure to provide a water source, and maybe a soft blanket and a favorite toy. Had Winston been in a crate, I would not have had to purchase 3 new pairs of shoes. Here’s what Dr. Antin had to say:

A2: A crate is essential, even domesticated animals need a safe place to retreat to #PetLifeChat #sz16

— Dr. Evan Antin (@EvanAntin) August 2, 2016

House Training Your New Dog

House training can be tricky. It comes easy to some dogs, while some puppies need a little more guidance. Make sure your puppy gets to go outside frequently, and be sure to give lots of praise when he goes potty outside. There are bound to be some accidents, so I recommend stocking up on Simple Solution Odor and Urine Removal. It’s a must have item for new pet owners. You should also check out the Simple Solution Odor and Urine Removal eBook. It has step-by-step instructions on how to get all the stains out. Dr. Antin’s advice on housetraining:

A3: Positive reinforcement training and frequent bathroom breaks! #PetLifeChat #SZ16

— Dr. Evan Antin (@EvanAntin) August 2, 2016

Have Patience and Be Consistent

Consistency is key when training a new puppy. Make sure everyone in your family is on the same page. Where will your pet sleep? Who will feed your puppy? And, who will be responsible for taking the dog on daily walks? Just make sure that whoever takes on the dog walking responsibility is prepared with Green Pups Waste Pick-Up Bags. They keep the smell inside the bag and are good for the environment too. Here’s Dr. Antin’s advice to new pet owners:

A4: Consistency and lots of love ?❤️ #PetLifeChat #sz16

— Dr. Evan Antin (@EvanAntin) August 2, 2016

Keeping Your New Pet Healthy

When you get a new pet, it’s important to find a vet right away. Make sure your new pup is current on vaccines, and tests negative for heart worm, and has been spayed or neutered (if your pet is old enough). Make sure you get heart worm and flea/tick preventatives. Feeding your dog a quality diet and making sure he gets plenty of exercise is also important for you pup. Check out Dr. Antin’s advice:

A5: A quality diet, regular exercise & enrichment, and socialization starting at a young age #PetLifeChat #sz16

— Dr. Evan Antin (@EvanAntin) August 2, 2016

Watch this video to learn a little more about Dr. Evan Antin:

I hope these tips help you and your new puppy get off to a great start!