When puppies go to their new homes, they leave the comfort and familiarity of their mother, littermates, and breeder. To make this transition as smooth as possible, providing new owners with a comprehensive puppy packet can be invaluable. A well-organized packet not only gives them essential information but also builds trust and ensures the puppy has the best start in its new environment.
Here’s a breakdown of what to include:
1. Health Records
Keeping track of a puppy’s health history is crucial for new owners and their veterinarians. Include:
Vaccination Records: Include dates of all vaccinations given and those due in the future. If possible, note the type of vaccine and the brand, as well as any reactions the puppy might have had.
Deworming Schedule: Outline the dates and type of dewormer given, along with a suggested schedule for follow-up treatments.
Veterinary Contact Information: List the vet you’ve been working with, along with clinic contact information, in case new owners have questions.
Any Health Screening Results: If there were early screenings or tests (especially for breeds prone to certain conditions), include these results for transparency.
2. Feeding Instructions
Providing clear feeding instructions will help the puppy maintain its current diet and prevent digestive issues. Include:
Current Food Brand and Type: List the brand, flavor, and type of food (e.g., kibble, canned, or raw) you’ve been feeding.
Amount and Frequency: Specify how much and how often the puppy should be fed. Break this down into meal portions appropriate for its age and weight.
Transition Guidelines: Suggest a gradual transition if the new owner plans to change the puppy’s food. Outline a schedule for introducing the new food over a week to avoid stomach upset.
3. Basic Training Tips
Providing a brief guide on basic training principles can help new owners establish good habits. Include:
Potty Training Guidelines: Share tips on crate training and establishing a consistent potty routine.
Basic Commands: List a few simple commands (like “sit,” “come,” or “stay”) along with the words or gestures you may have started using.
Socialization Tips: Offer guidance on how to introduce the puppy to different environments, people, and other animals. Suggest keeping interactions positive and gradual to build the puppy’s confidence.
4. Grooming and Care Instructions
Each breed has specific grooming needs, so outline the essentials to help new owners maintain the puppy’s coat, nails, and overall hygiene.
Grooming Schedule: Mention how often the puppy needs brushing, nail trims, and baths. Note any tools you recommend, such as specific brushes or shampoos.
Ear Cleaning and Dental Care: Include any particular care for the ears (especially for breeds prone to ear infections) and tips on maintaining dental health.
Coat Maintenance Tips: For breeds with special coat needs, provide advice on seasonal shedding or special grooming requirements.
5. Daily Routine Outline
Puppies thrive on routine, and sharing their current schedule can ease the transition. Include:
Feeding Times: List the times you’ve been feeding the puppy.
Sleep Schedule: Note when and where the puppy has been napping, including nighttime arrangements.
Play and Exercise Times: Describe the puppy’s daily activity level and what types of exercise or playtime it enjoys.
6. Puppy ID Card
Create an ID card with details that make each puppy easy to identify and remember. Include:
Name (if given), Date of Birth, and Microchip Number: This will help new owners with vet registration and any future travel or boarding requirements.
Physical Characteristics: Mention coat color, markings, and eye color, especially if there are several similar-looking puppies in the litter.
Parent Information: Share a brief profile of the puppy’s parents, including health test results, lineage, and temperament traits.
7. Photos of the Puppy and Parents
Including a few printed photos of the puppy (from newborn to present) along with photos of the parents is a nice touch. It lets the new owner see the puppy’s early journey and gives them a keepsake of this time. I create a Google photo album for each litter that only clients have access to whenever they want. This includes pictures of the parents and the puppies from birth to the point they go home.
8. AKC Registration Information (or relevant registry)
If your puppies are registered, include all necessary documentation to complete the registration. This can include:
Registration Forms and Instructions: Make it as easy as possible for the new owner to submit.
Pedigree Information: Provide a copy of the puppy’s pedigree, if applicable, which can be valuable for those interested in learning more about the puppy’s lineage.
9. Recommended Supplies List
Help new owners prepare by including a list of recommended supplies, such as:
Type of Crate and Size: Suggest a crate that’s appropriately sized for the puppy.
Toys and Chew Items: Share favorite toys that you’ve found safe and beneficial for development.
Collar, Leash, and Harness Recommendations: Specify sizes to help owners purchase the right fit as the puppy grows.
10. Contact Information and Support
Finally, let new owners know you’re there for support. Include:
Your Contact Information: Share your preferred contact methods and let them know you’re available for questions.
Follow-Up Support and Resources: Consider offering a follow-up check-in or referring them to trusted resources (such as local trainers, veterinarians, or online groups).
A puppy packet with these essentials not only sets the new family up for success but also shows the care and dedication you’ve put into their puppy’s early life. With these resources in hand, new owners can confidently care for their puppy, and you can feel secure knowing you’ve provided them with everything needed to make a positive start.
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