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Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting adventure, but it comes with its challenges. At DogingtonPost, we understand that learning how to care for a puppy dog can be overwhelming for first-time owners.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the early stages of a puppy’s parent-child relationship. From preparing your home to mastering the basics of training, we cover everything you need to know to give your furry friends the best start in life.
How to make your home a puppy
I will reserve a living area
Start by examining your home from the puppy’s perspective. Go down to everyone on four and look for potential dangers. Remove loose wires, small objects, and toxic plants or make them safe. For safer alternatives, consider dog-safe plants such as Hawarsia (also known as Zebra Plants), Christmas Cactus, Tiger Jaws, and Wax Plants.
Install child proof latches in the low cabinet and drawers. These devices prevent curious puppies from accessing cleaning supplies, medicines, or other dangerous items. Hold the locked can with lid to avoid messy and potentially harmful cleaning.
We stock puppy essentials
Collect essential supplies before new families arrive. A sturdy collar and leash are a need for walks and training. Choose an adjustable colour that allows for growth and choose a 4-6-foot leash for optimal control during a walk.
Food and water bowls are an obvious need, but consider elevated feeders to promote better posture and digestion (especially for larger varieties). When it comes to toys, the variety is important. Offering chew toys, puzzle toys, and soft luxurious toys to entertain and stimulate your puppy. The American Kennel Club proposes spinning the toy to maintain the interest of the puppy and prevent the destructive behavior associated with boredom.
Create a cozy bedroom
All puppies require a designated bedroom. The wooden frame can serve as a safe shelter and can assist in training your home. Select a Large crates It’s enough for your pup to stand, turn around and lie comfortably. Line it up in a soft, washable bed and consider covering it partially to create a burrow-like atmosphere.
Place the wooden frame in a quiet area of your home and move away from busy traffic zones. This will help your puppy feel safe and get the rest they need. Puppies sleep for 18-20 hours a day, so a comfortable sleeping space is essential for growth and development.
Establish a safe outdoor area
If you have a garden, make sure it’s safe for your puppies. Check the fence for gaps or weak spots that your small puppy could squeeze. It removes toxic plants when ingested (see the comprehensive list of safe plants for dogs). Create designated toilet areas to assist in the training of your home.
Prepare for an emergency
Keep important phone numbers (veterinarians, emergency veterinarian clinics, toxicity management) in easy-to-access locations. We’ll put together a basic first aid kit for your pet, including items such as gauze, nonstick bandages and hydrogen peroxide (be sure to consult your veterinarian before administering emergency medicines).
Once these preparations are complete, you are ready to welcome your new puppy into a safe and raised environment. The next step is to ensure that your puppy receives proper nutrition. This is important for growth and development.
What should a puppy eat?
Choosing the best puppy food
Puppies need food It is specifically formulated for rapid growth. The Association of American Feed Control Officer (AAFCO) recommends that puppy foods contain at least 22.5% protein on a dry matter basis. Choose a high-quality brand that lists specific meats (such as chicken or lamb) as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with artificial preservatives, colours, or flavors. Veterinarians can provide recommendations based on the breed and size of the puppy.
Create a feeding schedule
Puppies need food more frequently than adults due to their stomach and high energy needs. Follow this schedule:
- Under 3 months old: 4 meals per day
- 3-6 months: 3 meals a day
- Six months later: 2 meals a day
Set specific meal times and maintain consistency. This routine helps you digest and house training. Remove the food after about 20 minutes to prevent grazing.
Mastering Potion Control
Overeating can lead to obesity, and obesity induces tension that develops joints and organs. As a starting point, follow the feeding guidelines for your puppy food package. Adjust the area based on the puppy’s physical condition and activity level.
Try the rib test to see if you’re supplying the right amount. You should feel the ribs of your puppy without looking at them. If you don’t feel any ribs, reduce the area slightly. If your ribs are very prominent, increase your food intake.
Growth and weight monitoring
Monitor your puppy’s weight regularly. Most puppies double their birth weight in the first week of life and continue to gain 5-10% of their weight every day (growth rate varies depending on the breed). Consult your veterinarian about specific guidelines.
Transition to adult food
As your puppy grows, their nutritional needs change. Get ready to adjust the portion size and eventually switch to adult dog food. Transition to adult food Usually, medium-sized varieties occur around 12-14 months old, but smaller varieties occur earlier and later in larger varieties.
With proper nutrition, the next steps in puppy care include training and socialization. These factors are essential for developing a well-behaved, confident adult dog.
How to Train and Socialize Your Puppy
Basics of house training
In many cases, home training is the first major challenge for new puppy owners. Start by establishing a consistent routine. Take the puppy every 1-2 hours, especially after meals, naps and playtime. Select a specific location in your garden and use commands such as “Go Toty” to create a relationship.
When your puppy is eliminated outside, it immediately offers praise and small treats. This positive reinforcement encourages them to repeat their actions. If an accident occurs indoors, avoid punishment. Clean the area thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner to remove any odors that could pull the puppy back into the same place.
Tell basic commands
Start with simple commands like “sit down”, “stay”, “come”. Shorten your training sessions several times a day (approximately 5-10 minutes). Reward the puppy for the following command, using high value snacks and many praises.
For the “sit” command, hold the treat near the puppy’s nose, then slowly move up and back over his head. As their heads tilt and follow the treat, their bottoms naturally go low to the ground. As soon as they sit they say, “Yes!” and give them a treat.
Early socialization
Socialization is essential to raising a well-tuned dog. Socialization period Puppies will experience homing after 8 weeks, which means that commercial puppies will be in breeding facilities for hours. During this time, expose your puppy to a variety of people, animals and environments.
Organize your puppy play date with your vaccinated dog, invite friends to meet your puppy, and get in a short car to your new location. Always make sure these experiences are positive and not overwhelmed by your puppy.
Proactive strengthening technology
Aggressive reinforcement It is argued that it is humane and equally effective than a method based on disgust or punishment. This method involves rewarding desirable actions to increase frequency. Use snacks, praises and playtime as a reward.
Avoid punishment-based methods that can lead to fear and anxiety. If your puppy exhibits unwanted behavior, focus on appropriate activities and toys.
Training consistency
Consistency is key when training your puppy. Everyone in the household should use the same command and reward system to avoid confusing the puppy. With patience and tenacity, you will soon get a polite dog companion.
Final thoughts
Care for a puppy requires dedication, patience and love. Learning how to care for a puppy dog involves several important aspects, from puppy to providing proper nutrition and establishing a consistent training routine. Your puppy will thrive with your unwavering support and guidance.
Responsible dog ownership exceeds these early stages. As your puppy grows, you must continue to educate yourself about the changing needs of your puppy. Regular veterinarian checkups, continuous training, and lots of love and attention will help your puppy grow into a well-tuned adult dog.
DogingtonPost supports you through your dog ownership journey. Our platform offers resources, from the latest news on dog care to expert advice on health and nutrition. We recommend exploring the site for ongoing guidance and inspiration as you navigate the joy (and challenges) of raising furry friends.
