A puppy can be a great gift for Christmas-- if you are prepared to take care of it. Here are tips for keeping that puppy safe, happy, and healthy while you introduce it to a new home.

Find a good vet: The first thing you want to do when you get a puppy is to find a good vet and make sure you take the puppy in as soon as possible. Depending on the age of the puppy, he/she may need multiple rounds of shots to get them set up for a healthy first year.
Regular visits to the salon: Not only is going to the vet important, making sure you get your puppy into the salon regularly is important for the puppy’s future. Even if your puppy doesn’t need a bath or a haircut yet, visiting the salon regularly can get the puppy used to the environment and make future grooming trips easier and less scary for everyone involved.
Socializing: Doggy daycare is a great way to begin socializing your puppy. It’s important for dogs to be social, getting used to being around other dogs and other people. This is also a great way to get your dog used to car rides.
Potty Training: Potty training early will make everyone’s lives easier down the road. Start by establishing a routine for taking your puppy outside. Use positive reinforcement to help your puppy understand they are doing a good thing by waiting until they can eliminate outside.
Proper Feeding: Finding the right food and feeding the right amount are both important to maintaining a happy, healthy dog. Talk with your vet about the best options for you and your puppy.
Be patient: Ultimately, puppies are a lot of work, and it takes patience and love to make sure you and your puppy adjust to this new lifestyle. Don’t get discouraged if your puppy doesn’t take to you and your family immediately. It takes some dogs a few weeks to get used to their new life.