If you've never owned a puppy before or have not owned one for a long time than introducing a puppy into your home can be a bit of shock to your established routine. A small puppy is a lively and curious small mammal that is learning all the time. It can get into scrapes that an older and more experienced dog would avoid. You have to puppy-proof your home just as you would toddler-proof it.

The first thing to be aware of is that puppies chew things. In fact puppies chew anything and everything. They will chew your shoes, clothing, carpets, telephone cables and electric wires, their basket or whatever else you can think of.

If you have things that are too valuable to risk getting chewed then make sure they are kept out of the puppy's way. Make sure the kids do the same. Fix wires and any loose edges of carpets down carefully so they are not tempting. If you have expensive rugs then roll them up and put them in a room that is closed to the puppy.

Get the puppy a dog bed. Plastic is the best kind because it can be washed and is economical. Traditional wicker baskets look nice but will quickly reduced to a ruins by a chewing puppy. Line the bed with washable bedding. This will all get chewed but it can be replaced.

Make sure that you puppy cannot get into any cupboards and utility rooms where household chemicals are stored. Child safety locks can be fitted to kitchen cupboards.

Outside the house make sure that the puppy is not exposed to any chemicals that might be used on the lawn, plants or path. Keep the puppy away from treated areas. This applies to newly chipped bark mulch. This can be harmful to dogs.

Make sure you have a suitable puppy harness and leash for your puppy. A harness is often better for a puppy in the first weeks than a conventional collar. It gives you something to grab hold of if the puppy makes a run for it and it is more comfortable for puppy. Get your puppy used to a collar gradually.

You new puppy will need several short walks every day. It does not need long walks. Some breeds of dog have joints that are particularly susceptible to damage and they should not walk too far when they are young. The main purpose of the walks at this stage is to accustom the puppy to going to the toilet outside. Always go equipped with a pooper scoop so that you can clean up afterwards. Dog feces can transmit worms that are harmful to children.

Inside the house you may consider getting a puppy pen. This is somewhat like a plan pen for puppies. It will help keep the puppy out of danger when you are cooking or doing other household tasks. It also offers the puppy a quiet place to rest away from the hurly burly of family life.