How to Prepare Your Puppy for Their First Day at Daycare

 

It's natural to feel excitement mixed with a little anxiety when you put your pup at the daycare. We at Puppy Daycare Chicago are aware of how crucial a perfect and enjoyable first experience can be for your puppy. Useful preparation makes your pup feel joyful, cozy, and keen to meet new friends.

Here are some recommendations to equip your puppy for their first day at daycare.

1. Make a Vet Visit

Before bringing your puppy to a daycare, ensure it is current on vaccinations and in good health to allow mixing with other dogs. Many puppy daycare centers in Chicago require proof of rabies and distemper vaccinations, while most also require Bordetella (kennel cough). Discuss this information with your vet to determine whether your pup is protected.

2. Introduce Socialization Early

Puppies benefit from social interactions; however, daycare can be overwhelming to those not used to other dogs or people. Begin by having your pup meet nice, laid-back dogs and encourage good interactions with family and friends. Gradually expose them to new noises, surroundings, and individuals so they will feel confident when sent to daycare.

3. Acclimatize Your Puppy to Spending Time Alone

While daycare is enjoyable, there will be moments when your puppy needs to rest in a crate or quiet space. If they are not accustomed to short periods alone, it may lead to anxiety. Practice brief crate sessions at home, rewarding them with treats and praise for staying calm.

4. Pack a Daycare Bag

Just like school supplies are a must for children, your puppy needs a good daycare bag. At Puppy Daycare Chicago, we advise:

●      A bag of the preferred food or treats of your pup

●      Any comfort items that carry home scent (like a small toy or a blanket)

●      A collar with identification tags

While our team offers abundant love and attention, familiar items can soothe your puppy in a new setting.

5. Ensure Your Puppy Has Basic Training

Before daycare, it's great if your pup understands commands like "sit," "stay," and "come. " This helps them follow orders and stay safe when playing. If they are not there yet, do not worry! We closely monitor all of our furry friends and work with them in groups to help them build confidence.

6. Exercise Them Good Before Daycare

A tired puppy is a happy puppy! Take them out for a short stroll or a game of fetch on their first morning at Puppy Daycare Chicago. This gives them the chance to tire themselves out a bit while feeling calm and ready for whatever new place they are introduced to without getting too hyped or anxious.

7. Calm and Optimistic

Your puppy feels your emotions, and thus, if you're nervous, they will most probably feel it, too. You must be positive and greet, dropping them off at daycare as usual, something they really love. A quick goodbye with a smile assures the pup that you're back soon. They are ready to have a great time!

8. Trust the process

It may take several visits for your puppy to get used to daycare, and that is totally normal! Some dogs adapt quickly, while others take a little longer to feel comfortable. At Sniff City, we carefully introduce new puppies to the group, making sure they feel safe and valued throughout.

Why Choose Sniff City for Puppy Daycare in Chicago?

At Sniff City, your puppy will stay in a completely safe environment where they can play, exercise, and learn. At Sniff City, we have dedicated professionals for the care and development of puppies, including helping the puppies gain self-confidence with friendship and knowing that while you are out, it is in safe hands.

Adhere to these recommendations, and you'll be setting your puppy up for success and making sure that their first day at daycare is a great one. For questions or further information on our Puppy Daycare Chicago, contact us. We look forward to meeting your charming new friend!