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Preparing for your new puppy

Bringing home a new Toy Poodle puppy is an exciting experience, and a little preparation can make the transition much smoother for both you and your new companion. At Ember Hills Poodles, we want every puppy to start their new life with confidence, comfort, and safety. Preparing your home before your puppy arrives helps reduce stress and allows you to focus on bonding with your newest family member.

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1. Puppy-proof your home

Toy Poodle puppies are naturally curious, intelligent, and adventurous. Before your puppy arrives, take time to create a safe environment.

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Remove potential hazards

  • Secure electrical cords and chargers.

  • Store cleaning supplies and medications out of reach.

  • Remove small objects that could be swallowed.

  • Keep trash cans covered.

  • Block access to unsafe areas of your home.

  • Remove toxic houseplants.

Creating a puppy-safe environment helps prevent accidents and encourages positive exploration. It is also recommended to not give your puppy full reign of the house immediately upon bringing them home. 

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2. Essential supplies for your new puppy

Having the right supplies ready before pickup day makes the transition easier for everyone.

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Food and water bowls

Choose durable stainless steel or ceramic bowls that are easy to clean and resistant to bacteria.

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High-quality puppy food

We provide a week's worth of food. We recommend continuing the food your puppy has been eating at Ember Hills (Diamond Puppy All Life Stages High Protein 31/20 Formula) to avoid digestive upset. If you plan to switch foods, do so gradually after your puppy has settled into their new home.

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Crate

We recommend a 24 inch crate. This crate will be big enough for your puppy as they grow. The full crate might be a bit big for your new furry friend, so be sure to partition off the crate until they are big enough for the entire enclosure. In our experience both wire and plastic are fine. 

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Puppy playpen or exercise area

Because we don't want to give your puppy full reign of the house, we recommend a playpen to provide your puppy space to play in a safe environment while you cannot supervise them directly. 

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As with crates, playpens can take some time for your puppy to get used to. For best the best chance of success, we recommend the Youtuber Kikopup's method of training your puppy to be calm in their playpen.

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Collar, harness, and leash

Toy Poodles have delicate necks, so we recommend a lightweight harness for walks and outings. Remember, in most cases your puppy is not fully vaccinated yet, so avoid high-traffic dog areas for now. 

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Comfortable bed

Provide a soft, washable bed that fits in the puppy's crate so your puppy can rest comfortably.

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Potty training supplies

Successful house training begins on day one.

Helpful supplies include:

  • Puppy training treats

  • Enzyme-based accident cleaner

  • Waste bags

  • Designated potty area

Consistency and positive reinforcement are the keys to successful potty training.

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Grooming supplies for toy poodles

Regular grooming is essential for maintaining the beautiful coat Toy Poodles are known for.

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Basic Grooming Kit

Include:

  • Slicker brush

  • Metal comb

  • Nail clippers

  • Puppy-safe shampoo

Introducing grooming early helps your puppy learn that grooming is a positive experience.

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Toys for Mental Stimulation

Toy Poodles are highly intelligent and benefit from enrichment activities.

Recommended toys include:

  • Soft plush toys

  • Chew toys

  • Puzzle toys

  • Treat-dispensing toys

  • Interactive enrichment games

Rotating toys regularly helps keep your puppy mentally engaged and prevents boredom.

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Prepare Your Family

Before your puppy arrives, discuss household expectations with all family members.

Important topics include:

  • Feeding responsibilities

  • Potty training routines

  • Crate training schedules

  • House rules

  • Safe puppy handling

Consistency from every family member helps your puppy learn faster and feel secure.

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Schedule Your Veterinarian Appointment

At Ember Hills Poodles, puppies receive age-appropriate veterinary care before going home. We ask that you schedule a wellness examination with your veterinarian within the first few days after pickup.

Your veterinarian will:

  • Review health records

  • Discuss vaccination schedules

  • Establish preventative care

  • Answer health and nutrition questions

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Plan for the Ride Home

If you're picking up your puppy in locally, be sure to bring:

  • A secure travel crate or carrier

  • Soft blanket

  • Paper towels

  • Water and travel bowl

  • Leash and harness

A secure carrier helps your puppy feel safe and reduces travel stress.​​

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