While there are many positives to taking on a puppy during lockdown, there is no denying that there are a few drawbacks too. One of the main issues pet parents are finding is that balancing work and a demanding puppy is no mean feat. Here, we discuss some top tips to keeping you sane and your puppy content while working from home.
- Stick to a routine. As is true with children, puppies thrive on routine. If your pup is used to getting fed and walked at a certain time, they know what to expect each day. Conversely, making them wait for dinner or skipping a walk can result in one confused little critter.
- Start crate training from day one. Crate training offers many advantages but we must take things slowly to ensure our puppies are content when crated. Any sign of anxiety means we need to take a step back. The crate should be seen as a ‘safe haven’ and provides somewhere secure for the pup to rest when you have an important Zoom call to attend. Plugging in a pheromone diffuser such as an ‘Adaptil’ near the crate can be useful.
- Spend some time bonding during your lunch hour and breaks. Pups operate on two speeds: Wide awake or fast asleep! Take advantage of this by playing fast paced games during lunch breaks, wearing out your furry friend so they nap while your work