1. Not Getting Pet Insurance
It goes without saying – that your pup will need a vet and those vet bills can sneak up on you. Whether it’s a surprise ear infection or an unexpected accident, things happen. That’s why I always recommend getting pet insurance before your pup even sets a paw in your house. Trupanion is my top pick because they cover what you actually need—saving you from those “wait, how much?!” vet visits. Insurance helps you focus on loving your pup instead of worrying about the “what ifs.”
2. Skipping Training
Training isn’t just about teaching your pup to “sit” or “stay”—it’s the foundation for a happy, well-mannered companion. And trust me, even the sweetest Shih Tzu can get into trouble without proper training! For the best results, I recommend using Baxter & Bella. They offer easy-to-follow programs that make training simple and fun. A little time invested in training now will make a huge difference later—trust me on this one! Click HERE to check out their program and to save a little money with the code DIVINEPUPS at checkout.
3. Neglecting Socialization
You’ve probably heard it before, but I can’t stress this enough: socialization is key. Introducing your puppy to new experiences, people, and other animals early on will help them grow into a confident, friendly adult dog. Whether it’s bringing them to dog-friendly cafes, setting up puppy playdates, or taking them on short car rides, exposing them to new environments is essential. A well-socialized pup is a happy pup—and makes your life a whole lot easier, too.
4. Skipping Research on the Breeder
Not all breeders are created equal, and this one is important. A responsible breeder prioritizes health, temperament, and making the right matches for each pup and family. If you’re here, you already know that at Divine Pups, we take this responsibility seriously. But if you’re exploring other breeders, do your homework. Ask questions, check references, and make sure they’re committed to their dogs’ well-being. The right breeder makes all the difference in your puppy’s start to life.
5. Not Having a Vet Ready
Before you even bring your pup home, make sure you have a vet lined up. Your new puppy will need regular check-ups, vaccinations, and maybe even a little TLC along the way. Ask other pet owners for recommendations or check out local vets with experience working with small breeds like Shih Tzus. Having a trusted vet on hand will make the first few weeks with your pup much smoother—and give you peace of mind knowing your new family member is in good hands.
Conclusion
Adopting a puppy is an exciting journey, but it’s important to start off on the right foot (or paw). Avoid these common mistakes—like skipping pet insurance, neglecting training, or rushing into adoption without research—and you’ll be well on your way to raising a happy, healthy Divine Pup.
Ready to meet the newest member of your family? Head over to our Ready Pups page to see the available pups waiting for their forever homes.
I’m here to help you every step of the way—let’s get you and your Divine Pup started on the best journey yet!
