If you're adopting a puppy, congratulations! They're a big responsibility, but they're also well worth it. Spring is perfect for welcoming a new addition to your Long Island home. Our REALTORS® recommend the following tips for homeowners welcoming a puppy into their family.

• Create some house rules.
  Puppies need consistent rules, so sit down with your family to make some decisions. Are there any rooms your puppy won't be allowed in? Can they get on the furniture? Where will they sleep? In addition to setting rules for your puppy, decide which family members will be responsible for which puppy-related chores and how often they should be performed.
  
  
• Buy needed supplies.
  New puppies require a lot of supplies, so stock up on what you know you'll need. Common supplies include food (ask your veterinarian for recommendations), food and water bowls, a pet or baby gate, a crate, toys, a dog brush and shampoo, puppy pads, and waste bags.
  
  
• Puppy-proof your home.
  Your puppy will be curious, want to explore your home, and chew on interesting items. Keep your puppy safe by removing access to the following items:
  
  
  • Cleaning supplies - Store them up high or in cabinets with childproof latches.
  • Electrical cords - Unplug them or thread them through cord concealers.
  • Toilets - Keep the lids closed.
  • Blind cords - Keep them secure so your puppy can't become entangled.
  • Trash cans - Secure trash cans so your puppy can overturn them and eat something harmful.
  • Small choking hazards - Keep coins, rubber bands, and other small items secure.
    
    
• Put your favorite possessions out of reach.
  Puppies have a lot of energy and curiosity, so they'll want to explore their new home and maybe chew on a few things. This is normal behavior, so prepare your home by putting cherished items away or moving them out of your puppy's reach.
  
  
• Set up a comfortable place for your puppy.
  Before bringing your puppy home, set up a comfortable area for them that offers a sense of security. Put a pet bed in their space, and add a crate. Your puppy can be trained to stay in the crate overnight, which helps with potty training, establishing a sleep schedule, and staying safe while you're sleeping. 
  
  
• Plan for a play area.
  Consider fencing in your yard if you haven't already done so, but your pup will need outdoor supervision until they're older. A dog run is a less expensive option if you don't want your puppy to have access to the whole yard. To get out and about with your puppy, visit a local dog park or pet-friendly beach.
  
  
• Address pet hair and dander.
  Pets shed hair and dander, and as your puppy grows, they'll have even more to shed. Change your HVAC filter before bringing your pet home, then every one to three months as needed. If your puppy is a breed that has long hair and sheds a lot, consider buying an air purifier designed for homes with pets. This can also help if anyone in your home suffers from pet allergies.

Contact us today if you're looking for a home on Long Island. Our agents would be happy to show you Nassau County homes for sale and Suffolk County homes for sale.