Dogs

Puppy care tips for new pet parents

What can be more exciting than being a parent to a super awwdorable puppy?! However, keep in mind that pet parenting has its own pros and cons. They might love going to the park for a walk, but parenting them is no walk in the park. Puppy care journey will take you through all the phases, be it joy, stress and pride. They’re just like babies, watching them grow up, discover things, develop a personality, observing their reactions is a heartwarming journey on its own.

Here are 8 points that will help you smoothly glide through the puppy parenting stage.

  1. Puppy proofing the home
    Like babies and toddlers, puppies too have a sense of exploration. They are highly curious to investigate any new territory they’re introduced to. Welcoming these little explorers means puppy proofing the area they’re being brought into. Some ordinary things must be removed and some things should be added.

    • – Utensils should be kept out of reach, hazardous materials such as dishwashers, cleaning liquids etc. should be kept away.
    • – They have a habit of nibbling on things, so, all the risky stuff should be kept out of reach such as electrical wires, precious furniture etc.
    • – Puppies love peeing on rugs, so, avoid having rugs till they are toilet trained.
  2. Keep the supplies ready
    • – Bowl
    • – Collar & leash
    • – Toys
    • – Food
    • – Clothing
  3. Choose a vet
    • – Choosing the right vet is essential as an emergency can come at any time.
    • – Get a basic checkup done right when you bring home the puppy.
    • – Take appointments for vaccination and consult for deworming regularly.
  4. Toilet training
    Puppies are sensitive to infections and so, it is recommended not to take them out for peeing and defecation till their initial vaccinations are completed. For at home toilet training, you need to choose the right pee pad (size), put your dog on the pad when you feel that they are about to poo or pee and then reward them with praise and treats once they’re done. Continue this till they understand and get used to it.
  5. How to avoid ticks and fleas
    • – Combing and hair trimming regularly
    • – Use natural anti-tick shampoo, powder or spray
    • – Medication (consult vet)
  6. Grooming
    Start the grooming sessions at an early age for better hygiene and for them to get habitual to it. Although, their fur is highly sensitive till they turn 3 months old and for the same, wet showers are not recommended. You can start off by giving them dry baths and clipping their nails at home. As they grow up, it is okay to give them wet grooming sessions. While bathing them at home, don’t forget to clean behind the ears, paw pads, around the eyes, nails and under the tail because if not cleaned properly, it can lead to infections. Spa and professional grooming should be done at least once a month.
  7. Nutrition
    Just like babies, puppies grow up very rapidly and it is important for them to get the right nutrition to reach their optimal growth. During the formative years, puppies require high amounts of energy and nutrition and so, the food should be rich in protein, fats, calcium and phosphorus for stronger bones, muscle and coat. The gut contains 70% of a dog’s immune system; so, to boost immunity, we must feed them food that is healthy for the gut.
  8. Training
    Basic training is required not only to get your dog settled in or to keep them entertained but also to keep them safe. For example, Sit or Down could be useful when trying to cross a busy street, Call backcan stop your dog from running into danger or running away from home, drop will help in case your dog is trying to chew on an electric wire or has something toxic in their mouth.
  9. Basic Training commands
    • – Sit
    • – Down
    • – Drop
    • – Handshake
    • – Fetch
    • – Jump
    • – Call back