What could be more exciting than getting a cute new puppy as a pet? But be warned: it’s not easy to raise a new puppy. Taking care of a puppy can be fun, stressful, and rewarding all at the same time. Bringing a new puppy home requires a lot of planning, work, patience, and love. If you do it right, it’s a great time. Read on to learn some important steps for taking care of a puppy.
Locate a Reputable Vet
A vet from places like Paws and Claws Veterinary Hospital needs to check out your new puppy first. This visit will ensure your puppy is healthy and free of birth defects, serious health problems, 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 advice on where to take it to the vet. The people who walk and groom dogs can also give you ideas.
Exercise
Your puppy needs regular exercise to stay healthy. No matter what kind of dog it is, it must be active. This is very important as your puppy gets older and enters puberty. Look at how your dog reacts to different things to find out what he likes and doesn’t like.
Grooming
Your puppy’s skin and coat will be healthier if you brush or comb them often. Handling him will let you check his body for injuries or changes. It will also make him feel more comfortable around you and strengthen your relationship. So, brush your dog, no matter what kind it is.
Nourishment
When a puppy is eight weeks old, it can be weaned from its mother. Talk to the owner or a charity to find out what the animals usually eat. Start with foods they already know and like and add new ones slowly.
Always give the puppy food that’s right for its breed and size. It is better to eat many small meals than a few big ones. There should always be fresh water. You should never give your dog milk because it could make them sick. Obesity is a problem for both people and dogs, so feed your dog according to what the manufacturer says. Dogs can get sick from chocolate, especially dark chocolate, with many theobromines which might require the services of dog surgeons.
Legal Requirements
Your puppy needs to have a microchip and a collar and tag. All dogs and puppies over eight weeks old must have microchips and tags or collars with their names. Check the collar’s fit often to ensure it doesn’t get too tight as the puppy grows. Take your new pooch to a Tracy emergency vet for a full checkup to ensure everything is okay.
You will get a vaccination schedule from your vet, advice on how to deal with parasites, and instructions on how to look for signs of illness. As soon as you know how your dog usually acts, you should start teaching yourself how to carefully look at him. Using this method, you will be able to notice right away if there are any problems.
Conclusion
Puppies are sensitive to loud noises and sudden movements. For the first day or two, kids should only come over for a few minutes, and you should pay attention to your puppy’s needs and make sure they can go somewhere quiet if they need to. An exercise pen can be a great place to hide, so they can be close to you and still be safe.
