What could be more exciting than becoming a parent to an adorable new puppy? But be warned: raising a new puppy is no easy task. Puppy care can be fun, stressful, and rewarding all at the same time, and bringing a new puppy home requires a lot of planning, work, patience, and love. If done correctly, it’s a great experience. Continue reading to learn about some essential puppy-care steps.
Locate a Reputable Vet
Your new puppy needs a checkup at the puppy vet first. This visit will ensure your puppy is healthy and free of birth defects, serious health issues, etc., and help you start a preventive health routine. If you don’t have a vet, ask friends. Ask the shelter where you got your dog for vet recommendations. Dog walkers and groomers can also provide ideas.
Healthy Diet
Your puppy should be fed a diet appropriate for his development stage. If you can afford it, purchasing a premium brand may be worthwhile. Choose the right food with the help of your veterinarian! You’ll have to feed young puppies more frequently because their tummies are smaller. It is critical to keep your dog’s water supply clean and fresh. Every day, clean your puppy’s dish with soap and water to avoid trips to the vet surgeon.
Exercise
Regular exercise is essential for your puppy’s health. All dogs, regardless of breed, require some form of physical activity. This is especially important as your puppy grows and enters adolescence. Examine your dog’s reactions to various activities to determine what he enjoys and dislikes.
Grooming
Regular brushing or combing will improve the health of your puppy’s skin and coat. Handling him will allow you to examine his body for injuries or changes, ensuring he is comfortable in your presence and strengthening your bond. So, no matter what kind of dog you have, brush it.
Nourishment
Puppies can be weaned from their mothers when they are eight weeks old or older. To learn more about the animals’ normal diet, speak with the owner or a charity. Introduce new foods gradually, beginning with what they already know.
Always feed the puppy a diet suited to its breed and size. It is better to eat many small meals than a few large ones. Freshwater should always be available. Never give milk to your dog because it could make them sick. Obesity is a problem for dogs and people, so follow the manufacturer’s feeding recommendations. Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate with a high concentration of theobromine, can harm dogs which might require a visit to a Tracy emergency vet.
Legal Requirements
Your puppy must be microchipped and wearing a collar and tag. Microchipping and identification tags or collars are required for all dogs and puppies over eight weeks. Puppies grow quickly, so ensure the collar isn’t getting too tight by regularly checking its fit. Take your new puppy to the vet immediately for a thorough checkup to ensure everything is in order.
You will be given your veterinarian’s vaccination schedule, parasite management recommendations, and instructions on looking for signs of illness. Begin teaching yourself how to thoroughly analyze your dog as soon as you become acquainted with his typical behavior. Using this method, you will be able to identify any problems right away.
Conclusion
Puppies are sensitive to loud noises and sudden movements. Limit visits from children to a few minutes for the first day or two, and be attentive to your puppy’s needs, ensuring they can move away to a quiet place if necessary. An exercise pen can be an excellent hiding place, allowing them to be close to you while remaining safe.