Puppies are bundles of energy and need ways of releasing that energy through play. They will also expect to play at times that are sometimes inconvenient for an owner. As play is a necessity for the well-being of a puppy, a prospective owner will have to decide whether they will be able to cope with a puppy's lively behavior. It is also a necessity to keep out of reach things that the puppy will be able to chew on such as shoes or gloves. Special toys should be bought for the puppy, and should be objects that a puppy can play with without harming itself.
A puppy will often have a peculiar appetite, and this may lead to it trying to eat something that it shouldn't. It is a necessity that a puppy is given the right food for its age and breed. Also, if any human food is not put away, there is a risk that a puppy will try to reach it. A puppy's attempts to taste different things is basically down to curiosity, and shouldn't be treated with too much alarm. If a puppy is younger than four-weeks old, then it will need to be drinking milk instead of water.
Dogs need mental stimulation, and will gain satisfaction by interacting with people and feeling loved. Getting a dog trained to obey simple commands should be done when it is old enough to be taken out for a walk. A dog is a pack animal and it needs to know its position in that pack. When seeing other dogs, particularly, a puppy may get over-excited and be keen to want to play with them. It would be unwise, however, to let a puppy off its lead on the first occasion that it is taken out for a walk. A puppy should be gradually taught simple commands such as "Come," "Stay" and "Sit."
Like all baby animals, a puppy's health needs are extremely important. They must receive regular check-ups during the first few weeks and months of their lives. The health aspect of looking after a dog can be expensive, but it it will give an owner peace of mind once he or she knows that their puppy has been given all the necessary vaccinations. A puppy should also always have clean bedding.