The Countdown to Puppy Day
The days leading up to bringing your SouthEast Doodles puppy home are incredibly exciting! Being prepared will make the transition smooth and stress-free for both you and your new doodle.
Essential Shopping List
Before pickup day, ensure you have the following ready:
- High-Quality Puppy Food: We will inform you of the exact brand and formula your puppy is currently eating. If you plan to switch, do so gradually over 7-10 days to avoid GI upset.
- Appropriately Sized Crate: A crate with a divider is ideal so it can grow with your puppy. It should only be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down.
- Chew Toys & Teethers: Doodles are smart and need mental stimulation. Kongs, Nylabones, and puzzle toys are excellent. Avoid rawhide and cooked bones.
- Grooming Supplies: A high-quality slicker brush (like the Chris Christensen Big G) and a metal greyhound comb are absolute necessities from day one.
- Cleaning Supplies: Enzymatic cleaners (like Nature's Miracle) are essential for neutralizing potty accidents so the puppy isn't drawn back to the same spot.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home
Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Get down on their level to spot hazards:
- Secure all electrical cords and chargers.
- Remove toxic plants (e.g., Philodendrons, Pothos, Lilies, Sago Palms).
- Keep shoes, socks, and small children's toys off the floor—they are choking/blockage hazards.
- Set up baby gates to restrict access to stairs or carpeted areas during potty training.
Travel Logistics
If you are driving to Concord, Georgia for pickup, bring a travel crate, paper towels, unscented baby wipes, and a friend to help comfort the puppy in the back seat. If utilizing our flight nanny service, ensure you have your ID and are at the designated airport meeting spot 30 minutes early.
Being prepared allows you to focus purely on bonding during those critical first few days!