FAQs about your puppy's transition

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As we get closer to the big day, there are always a couple of FAQ's that come up. I've compiled a list of hopefully helpful information about bringing your pup home. 

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Here are a couple of links that talk about the car ride home and a link to a checklist of new puppy supplies you will need as well as great tips for training your new Bernese.  If you have any questions after reading it, please give me a call.  

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https://www.mydogsname.com/bringing-a-puppy-home-in-the-car/   

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/train-bernese-mountain-dog-puppy-milestone-timeline/

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As always, please monitor your puppy if you decide to give rawhide chips or rolls. I understand there's been bad situations with rawhides, however, our vet actually recommends them as long as they're monitored well. Rawhides help clean teeth, and it keeps them busy.

 

What about Vaccinations and their next visit to the vet?

For our contract to be valid you will need to get a wellness check scheduled within one week of your pup coming home. They will then need one more vaccine appointment at 16 weeks. Your pup will come home with medical records regarding what vaccines/dewormers they've had to date as well as their birth dates.

 

What about crate training and sizes?

I have gotten some questions about crate training.  I do recommend it and have had several questions about crate size.  I recommend an x-large crate.  You can put the divider/ barriers in when they are little but that will allow the crate to grow with your pup.   

 

What about grooming?

I recommend using tear free baby shampoo for the first 6 months.   It’s gentle and you can use it on their faces as well.  It's best to brush your pup weekly, and get them used to the grooming process. A pin brush and metal comb are great tools for their type of coat.  Be sure to separate the hair to get to the skin and not to just brush the top. 

 

A few other misc. pieces of information:

• If you're curious about collar sizes, I recommend getting an 8”-12” collar to start. They grow quickly so be sure to monitor the tightness of the collar and make adjustments as necessary.   

• When the puppies are napping, I have them sleeping with a "snuggle puppy heartbeat stuffed toy." They have adopted this pup into their pack.   Getting a snuggle puppy will help the pups transition home.  

• Finally, I recommend a slow feeder dish for your puppy.  Puppies eat fast and the slow feeder bowls slow them down and help keep them from choking when they eat.

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Nutrition

When going through the list of things your puppy needs, nutrition is the most important thing to think about.  Currently I am feeding my pups Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Formula Lamb and Rice. Please start with this, as it helps them transition well.  After a couple weeks, if you want, you can transition them to something else.  If you change, be sure that you are feeding a premium puppy food that is not filled with artificial fillers and that is not grain free.  Your vet might have some good suggestions.  

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Something else I have started doing with the puppies is giving them a vitamin supplement.  I have my moms and all pups on NuVet labs "NuVet Plus."  I highly recommend keeping the pups on the vitamins for the first year.  The vitamins are a holistic, natural supplement that strengthens your pup's immune system and digestive tract and promotes a healthy coat, skin, eyes and ears. You can visit the NuVet labs website at www.nuvet.com.  If you are interested in ordering, you can use this code to receive the discounts: 429407. 

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Training and Socialization of a Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy

Despite their intimidating size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are big softies really. However, they still need to undergo effective socialization (https://wagwalking.com/wellness/why-socialization-is-so-important-for-dogs) at a young age to prevent behavioral issues in later life.

This is especially crucial for larger breeds — people and other dogs are naturally more intimidated of animals the size of a fully-grown Berner when they bark or jump up as opposed to smaller pets.

Fortunately, Bernese Mountain Dogs are easy to train with a bit of effort and patience — remember, historically they were loyal working animals in the Swiss mountains! Be sure to introduce them to lots of different people, dogs and  situations while they’re young as well to ensure they get used to all this stimulation

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If I'm picking up my puppy, where are you located?

We are located at 1229 Redding Rd. Clymer, NY 14724.

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