If you’ve been preparing all winter for a new puppy, you’ve probably picked out lots of accessories and maybe have even picked up some food. Still with all of your planning, have you thought about how much your schedule is going to change?

Spring is the perfect time to bring a new puppy into your household. With plenty of good weather, spring offers comfortable temperatures for training your dog to walk on a leash or to potty train a new puppy. But all of these things take time. To better balance your schedule now that you have the responsibility of caring for a pet, check out the following pet tips!

 

Housebreaking

For the first few days, potty training your dog might seem extremely time-consuming. If you find yourself running outside with your puppy every time he looks like he might possibly have to tinkle, remember that just like humans, your dog probably has some type of schedule. Taking him out at regular times can reinforce this schedule. Another way to reinforce a regular schedule for your pet is to feed him at the same time every day. Unlike people, animals only need to eat once or twice a day, so setting out food at the same time each day will regulate your pet’s schedule naturally.

Another great time saver is to take your new puppy out at specific occasions. Take him out immediately following naps, meals and play sessions. This will cut down the number of times you take him out a day; plus, these are the times he mostly like has to go!

Grocery Delivery

You may be wondering what this had to do with creating a puppy-friendly schedule, but saving yourself time at the grocery store is a great way to get an extra hour or two to spend with your pet. Choosing to use a grocery delivery service can also cut back on time in the pet store. Just as you can buy pet food and toys at your local grocery store, you can order these items through your delivery service. I suggest ordering pet food every other week. This way it won’t get stale, but you won’t risk running out of it either. It’s probably a good idea to stock up on toys. You never know exactly when your pet is going to start teething, so pre-ordering some raw-hide bones is a great way to be prepared.

Training

Training your puppy from the beginning is a great way to regulate a schedule and save you time in the long run. Also, training your pet will prevent him from chewing on furniture and other off-limits items which will save you money as well. Crate training is usually a great place to start. Many owners feel bad confining their pets to crates, but crate training early on teaches pets manners which will allow them to earn free time outside of the crate during work hours. If you do decide to crate your pet, make sure you offer your pet water and lots of toys to keep him entertained. Busy dogs are always better behaved than bored dogs.