Puppies are without a doubt the cutest things in the world. However, looking after your new puppy is not a small or easy job. When your puppy comes home for the first time, there are three things that you can pretty much count on: total happiness, constantly cleaning up your puppy’s messes and a major lifestyle makeover. A growing puppy needs more than food and a doghouse to be able to thrive. And although you will initially have a lot of hard work, you will find that it is worth every effort you put in. Establishing good and healthy in those first few sleepless and stressful weeks is what will lay the foundation for many happy years for you and your puppy.
The first place that you and your new puppy will go together is to the vet. When you take your puppy for a checkup, it will not only make sure that it is healthy and free of any serious health problems, defects, etc., it will help you take the first steps to establishing a good preventative health routine. If you do not have one already, ask your friends to recommend a good vet. If your new furry friend came from a shelter, you can ask them to help you out.
It is important that you make the most of your first visit to the vet as this is the perfect time to get all the important information you will need for looking after your new puppy properly. Ask your vet about the best puppy foods, how often you should feed your puppy and what size portion is right. You should also:
Because your pup’s body is growing in critical ways, you will need to choose a food that is formulated especially for puppies. You should make sure that the foods you select have all the ingredients to meet your puppy’s nutritional requirements. Your vet will be of immense help, and with his advice, you can find the best puppy food for your new friend. Also, make sure that your puppy always has a bowl of fresh, clean water.
House training is another important part of looking after your new puppy when you bring him home. According to experts, with plenty of positive reinforcement, planning and patience, you will be able to housetrain your pup. A carpet-cleaning plan may also be needed, as accidents will happen. Give him praise when your pup goes potty outside and refrain from punishing him in case of any indoor accidents. Being smart little things, your pup will learn to know when and where to potty in no time.
There are other aspects of looking after a new puppy such as teaching obedience and being social. You will slowly learn how to take care of him as he stays longer and you can always call your vet any time you need help. Create a safe and happy home for your puppy and you will have a loyal friend for many years to come.
