Puppy Care
A cute puppy is one of life's greatest delights. Everyone can enjoy enjoying and caring for your new puppy. Our team and veterinarians know this is an exciting and unique moment for you, and we want to give your new puppy the finest start possible. Your early time with this puppy will affect your relationship for the next 12-15 years.
First vet visit: maximize it
We'll do a thorough physical and gather information from you at your puppy's first appointment. This is your chance to learn everything you need to know about puppy care to be a responsible, caring caregiver. Bring everyone in the family who will be involved in the puppy's care to the initial appointment. First visit topics:
Vaccine schedules
Diagnosing and treating dog parasites safely
Symptoms
Castration
Basic behavior training
Puberty
Dog food
Our vets will evaluate your puppy's breed, age, lifestyle, and any health or behavioral difficulties before making suggestions.
Quality puppy food matters
Responsible puppy care includes understanding puppy feeding. Your puppy's growing physique will affect his or her long-term quality of life. Choose a puppy meal that's made for growing dogs. Always look for an AAFCO declaration to guarantee your puppy food meets or exceeds nutritional needs.
Small and medium-sized dogs can be weaned off puppy food between 9 and 12 months.
Large dogs should eat puppy food for a year.
Early in the day, give your puppy plenty of fresh water to help him digest his food and stay hydrated. Regular feeding and walking will aid toilet training. Puppies will learn and enjoy a routine.
Follow a puppy feeding program. Discuss this with a vet at your next appointment to ensure you're feeding your puppy properly. Puppy feeding schedule:
6-16 weeks: 3-4 meals (4 meals only for very small breeds)
3-6 months: 2-3 meals
6-12 months: 2 meals
Do not feed your dog from your plate. Puppies will beg for whatever you're eating, and it's tempting to feed them. While it's not hazardous for children to eat most of what you eat, it's hard to break because they'll assume they should always share.
Follow a puppy diet and feeding schedule. Start early with puppy training for eating. This may include crating or removing the puppy from the dining room/kitchen until it behaves.