National Puppy Day is here, and we’re bringing back some of Dr. Z’s most helpful tips to raise your puppy to be a happy and healthy dog! Let’s revisit this informational bit on how best to prepare for puppyhood:
Puppy Tip #1 - Puppy Proofing: Everyday household items may pose no threat to us, but for our curious puppies, even the most unassuming objects can be harmful. Items such as wires, shoes, decorations, and small articles of clothing (among many other items) should be kept out of reach at all times. Additionally, block off potentially dangerous parts of the house, such as stairs and swimming pools. Toxic foods, such as chocolate, onions, grapes, nuts and avocados, should also be kept out of reach.
Puppy Tip #2 - Feeding: Puppies are constantly growing, which means they are constantly hungry! Due to their fast metabolism, puppies are prone to hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Because of this, it is important to feed your puppy 3-4 times a day. At the same time, it is important not to overfeed your puppy, which can cause bloat. The feeding instructions on your puppy food bag is usually a good start, as this will give specific recommendations based on your puppy’s weight, which will vary depending on age and breed.
Puppy Tip #3 - Veterinary Visits: Puppy check-ups with your local veterinarian is key to starting them on the right path towards a healthy life! Please schedule your puppy’s first veterinary visit at around 8 weeks of age. Depending on what your veterinarian recommends, your puppy may receive their first round of vaccinations at this time, in addition to other general preventive care, such as deworming, fecal testing and flea prevention, depending on your pup’s age. Your veterinary team will then guide you along the rest of your puppy’s veterinary schedule to ensure a happy and healthy puppyhood!
Puppy Tip #4 - Diseases: As you will learn at your puppy’s first veterinary visit, puppies are considered immunocompromised. This means that while they are young, their immune systems are still developing, making them susceptible to several illnesses and infections. This includes, but is not limited to, viral and parasitic diseases of the digestive tract, upper respiratory infections, skin infections, and ear infections. If you see symptoms of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, eye or nasal discharge, itching, or head shaking, please take your puppy to your local veterinarian for a check-up.
Puppy Tip #5 - Potty Training: It is important to establish structure during puppyhood. A regular routine in regards to feeding, playing and sleeping will help towards a healthy and happy lifestyle. Additionally, establishing a routine for your puppy’s potty time is essential in both their life and yours. Integrating an appropriate spot and time to go potty, such as in the backyard after nap time or dinner time, is recommended. Using positive reinforcement with treats and praise is a great way to start the training process.
Puppy Tip #6 - Excess Energy: Puppies are full of excited playfulness and curiosity. With so much energy, it’s important to allow them to expend it through lots of play time and enrichment with puppy-safe toys and training. Providing an outlet for their youthful energy will also help prevent destructive behavior, especially inside of the house. It is important to note that until your puppy has received all of its puppy vaccinations (usually at around 16 weeks of age), taking your puppy on walks, to the park, to grooming, or to any public space where fatal infectious diseases may exist, should be avoided.
Puppy Tip #7 - Tracking: Attaching some form of identity is crucial in keeping your puppy safe, especially if they get lost. A dog tag with your phone number and your pup’s name and address is just enough information to make it easy to contact you in the event your puppy gets lost and someone finds them. Microchipping is also a great way to provide your puppy with recognizable identification. It is best to microchip your pets at the time of their spay or neuter.
Puppy Tip #8 - Supplements: Starting your puppy on a healthy lifestyle can be tricky, but with the right diet and supplements, your pet will be on its way to great overall health. Dr. Z’s personal favorite puppy treats are our Wellnergy Pets Probiotics for dogs and cats; not only are they loved by pets everywhere, these supplements help promote gut health, balance the digestive tract, and keep diarrhea and vomiting under control, especially while your puppy continues to explore new environments in the height of their curiosity!