Raising a Cavapoo while managing family duties as a Dad is no small task. They are curious, needy, and occasionally wild. Here are some tips for navigating the cavapoo puppy phase like a seasoned dad.
Create a morning routine
You’re already juggling school lunches and work emails, and now you have a puppy who’s ready to party at 6 AM. It’s best to work your puppy into your established routine. Begin with a quick potty break outside the moment you get up. After that, feed them while the coffee brews. A brief 10-minute walk around the block is enough to burn off some energy. You can also get the kids involved by having them take turns feeding the puppy or refilling the water bowl.
Keep potty training simple and consistent
Having a puppy means there will be accidents. Puppies usually need to go out after eating, waking up, and playing. Praise them every time they go potty outside. Positive reinforcement works like a charm. Crate training also gives them a safe place and helps them learn to “hold it.”
Favour short training sessions
Cavapoo puppies are clever, but they have the attention span of a gnat, especially when they are little. Aim for short five to 10-minute training sessions, two to three times a day. Focus on basics like “sit”, “stay”, “come”, and “leave it”. Use treats and plenty of praise, and keep it fun.
Consider baby gates and playpens
While you’re folding laundry, making dinner, or attempting to work from home, the last thing you want is a puppy shredding your favorite sneakers or chewing on a power cord. Set up a safe area with toys, a bed, and water where the puppy can hang out while you handle the daily grind. Playpens or gated-off rooms can be game changers, as you can keep an eye on them without constantly chasing them around.
Socialization
Cavaposs are naturally friendly, but you’ve got to help them get comfortable around people, other dogs, vacuum cleaners and even neighbours. Take them on short car rides, and let them meet other friendly dogs. You can even take them with you to pick up your kids from school. All of this helps raise a confident, well behaved dog.
Schedule vet visits
Health issues can sneak up on your puppy, especially when they’re young. Cavapoos are pretty sturdy, but prone to things like infections and dental issues. Set reminders on your phone for regular vaccinations and check-ups, and be sure to keep a file with their vet records.
Don’t skip walks
Always try to squeeze in a walk. Cavapoos have energy to burn, and skipping walks usually leads to a destroyed couch. A quick 15 to 20 minutes in the morning or evening can also be a peaceful and satisfying activity for you and your puppy.
Endnote
Being a domestic dad is already a full-time job, and adding a Cavapoo puppy into the mix is like adding a sprinkle of joyful madness to your routine. It’s a lot of work, but also a lot of fun, cuddles, and tail wags. Celebrate the wins, and when your Cavapoo curls up in your lap after a long day, you’ll realize it’s totally with it.
