First Time Small Dog Owner Guide
Everything you need before, during, and after bringing home your new small dog
Free
Bringing home a small dog is a special kind of joy. They're portable, cuddly, and full of personality. But small dogs come with their own quirks, risks, and myths, and a lot of first-time owners learn them the hard way.
This free guide walks you through everything you need to know, from prepping your home to surviving the first week to raising a happy, healthy, well-mannered companion.
Inside the guide:
Before Your Dog Comes Home: A complete essentials checklist, puppy-proofing tips, and how to set up your dog's space.
The First Week: A sample first-day routine, tips for the first night, and what to ask at the first vet visit.
Potty Training That Actually Works: When to take your pup out, a step-by-step method, handling accidents, and crate training basics.
Feeding Your Small Dog: Choosing a food, how often to feed, treats and weight, and foods your dog must never eat.
Small-Dog Health: Dental disease, low blood sugar, slipping kneecaps, tracheal sensitivity, temperature sensitivity, and when to call the vet.
Everyday Safety: Jumping, stairs, doors, kids, bigger dogs, outdoor risks, and car safety.
Training & Socialization: The socialization window, teaching the basics, and preventing separation anxiety.
Exercise, Enrichment & Grooming: How much activity small dogs need, mental enrichment ideas, and a grooming schedule.
The Real Budget: What to plan for beyond the adoption fee.
Plus:
The 8 Most Common First-Timer Mistakes, and how to avoid them
A Daily Checklist to keep your pup happy and healthy
What you'll receive:
One free 12-page PDF, available to download instantly
US letter size (8.5" x 11"), ready to print or read on any device
Printable checklists and charts you can keep on the fridge
This guide is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for advice from your veterinarian.
