6 Tips for Caring for Your New Puppy
Written by SimplyforDogs.com
Bringing a puppy into your home is one of the most enjoyable experiences you can have. Filled with energy, the pup will bring laughter and happiness, quickly transforming into your best buddy. But, you have to understand that the puppy has particular needs, especially in terms of health and safety. Here are a few useful tips on how to care for your furry friend.
1. Give Your Puppy Time to Adjust
Your puppy will need time to adjust to the new environment and you should be patient. This is particularly important if you have other pets already in the house. You need to ensure that the new pup has his own space, with access to food and water, and that you offer attention to him.
You can encourage the puppy to gradually explore the new living quarters, getting used to the other pets. Encouragement goes a long way, if you are relaxed and show your puppy that you support him, he will no doubt be able to relax and establish his own routine.
2. Microchip Your Puppy
Even if you are only taking your pup out for short walks, there is always the risk of him wandering off and getting lost. Puppies can be easily confused, running in every direction and losing your scent. Enjoy peace of mind by providing your pupper with an ID tag, making sure that your contact information and microchip number are on it as well.
3. Provide a High-Quality Diet
Your puppy is growing every day and that comes with increased nutritional demands. It’s important to provide a high-quality diet to support your pup’s health and development. You can opt for store brand food or homemade puppy food but what matters is that you meet your puppy’s nutritional needs.
You can start your puppy on solid foods after the weaning period, which is around six weeks. Depending on your puppy, you might need to moisten dry food, as this will encourage the pup to eat. Don’t hesitate to consult your vet if you aren’t certain about dietary choices.
4. Try Probiotics for Overall Health
If you have decided to go with the homemade diet for your dog, you can take one step further and give him a probiotic supplement. Probiotics contain “friendly” bacteria strains meant to support gut health balance and ensure adequate digestion.
Probiotic supplements are simple to give to your pup, ensuring not only digestive health but also the necessary immune support. Many of these supplements also contain prebiotics, which are rich in fiber and, thus, ensure regularity and healthy elimination.
5. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
In case of extreme temperatures – whether cold or hot – you might want to keep your puppy indoors. Puppies have difficulties when it comes to regulating their body heat, with cold temperatures making them susceptible to hypothermia and hot summer days increasing the risk of heat stroke. Take short walks if necessary.
As your puppy grows, you can use paw wax to reduce the risk of cuts or abrasions. Always opt for high-quality natural wax and keep in mind that this can also be used during the summer, to protect the paws from walking on hot asphalt or even sand.
6. Keep Them Dry
Puppies love to jump and play in puddles, mud and other wet environments. They don’t care about the weather, just having fun and acting their age. However, you should never let your pup stay wet, as this can increase the risk of colds or, worse, pneumonia.
Always dry your puppy with a clean towel, until the entire fur is no longer wet. If the puppy shivers, due to the inadequate body temperature regulation, provide him with a soft blanket. You might even want to consider a thick bed, as the floor can be cold as well.
These are some of the tips you might want to consider when it comes to bringing a new puppy into your home. Make sure to give them a try and enjoy this period, as your pup will soon transform into a fully-grown dog.