I visited a big box store yesterday to talk to some people about my volunteer work and help out a little. I saw a few people with new puppies and I talked to them about how to prepare for their new little friend. I think the first thing you should think about is potty training and food. One of your most immediate problems though will be control.
     
  To control your puppy you have to be able to see him or know that he is contained when you are not directly watching them. I like to achieve this with a puppy pen rather than a crate, because they do not grow out of puppy pens which means you wont have to buy a bunch of different sizes.

 Place your puppy pen on a tile or non carpeted surface. Be certain your puppy has water,a toy , and a bed. If the area you place your dog in is a little chilly just put a little heater near them on the outside of the pen but not near any of their things. When they start crying stick to your schedule of potty breaks. She will need to get used to sitting alone. Make sure to start your potty training from the first moment you walk in the door. Socialization will have to be paid attention to also. More coming on all these subjects later.

    Adam Madore 
professional dog trainer with Artisan dog training
 Lexington / Nicholasville

One of the most common questions I get is about food and feeding. There are many foods out with different nutritional values. Does your dog have a special need? Some kind of food allergy or issue? 

True food allergies in the dog world are rare but they do happen. Dog foods of any kinds can be found on the internet and some local stores will order for you and keep it in stock. As a general rule I like Diamond and Taste of the wild for my dogs but these are for high energy dogs with high protein quotients.
 When you choose a dog food you should always check your labels. See if meat is the first ingredient? Does it have a large amount on grain? Always keep in mind that dogs should have a large amount of protein in their food because they are carnivores. 

    Adam Madore 
professional dog trainer with Artisan dog training
 Lexington / Nicholasville

When you are going to get a puppy you should remember that it is a choice you will live with for ten years or more. I think the first question should always be "What dog fits my lifestyle". Many people choose dogs by looks alone and they are sometimes unhappy with their choices. If you are getting a dog for a certain type of training you should have your trainer help you, they will usually be able to narrow it down! They can also give you choices by temperament, size,and potential grooming..etc. 

Above all you should want the dog you choose and meet a few grown dogs of that breed. I do free temperament tests and that can be invaluable if you want a puppy to act a certain way.

    Adam Madore 
professional dog trainer with Artisan dog training
 Lexington / Nicholasville