The ultimate guide to puppy care

Welcome, little four-legged friend!

Congratulations! You’ve brought a puppy into your home, marking the start of an incredible journey filled with joy, love, and (occasionally) a little chaos. Take care of your puppy goes beyond feeding and playing; it’s about laying the foundation for a happy and healthy life together.

But how exactly do you do that? This comprehensive blog will cover everything you need to know to get off to a great start. From nutrition and potty training to socialisation and health, whether you’re an experienced dog owner or a first-time puppy parent, these tips will make puppy care more manageable and more enjoyable!

Puppy-proof your home

Why puppy-proofing is important

Puppies are little adventurers. Anything shiny, smelly, or moving is bound to be explored, often with their teeth! Making your home safe before your puppy arrives is essential to prevent accidents and dangerous situations. A well-prepared home ensures not only your puppy’s safety but also your peace of mind.

Steps to puppy-proof your home

• Put away dangerous items
   Store cleaning products, medicines, sharp objects, and toxic plants (like aloe vera and ivy) out of your puppy’s reach. Use locked cabinets or high shelves to keep them safely out of the way.

• Protect cords and plugs
  Electrical cords are tempting chew toys, but they can be life-threatening. Use cable covers or protectors to minimise this risk.

• Tidy up small items
  Puppies can swallow anything, from socks to coins. Ensure small, loose items are out of sight and out of reach.

• Create a safe space
  Set up a quiet area where your puppy can relax, such as a crate or their own bed. Add soft blankets and a chew toy. With the Pawness Cookie Jar, you can keep rewards handy to encourage good behaviour.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Loose shoes: They’ll quickly become chew toys.
• Open trash bins: These might be filled with “treasures” dangerous for your puppy.
• Open windows or balconies: Ensure these are securely closed or blocked off so your puppy doesn’t accidentally get out.

Nutrition for your puppy

Why nutrition matters

Good nutrition is the foundation of healthy growth and development. Puppies grow incredibly fast and need nutrients to build strong bones, muscles, and an immune system. Not all food is suitable for puppies, so choosing the proper diet is essential.

What does a puppy need?

• High-quality proteins: For muscle growth and repair.
• Healthy fats: For energy and a shiny coat.
• Calcium and phosphorus: For strong bones and teeth.
• Vitamins and minerals: For a well-functioning immune system.

Choose food specifically formulated for puppies and avoid cheap options often lacking nutritional value. Also, consider using a high-quality feeding bowl, such as the durable ceramic bowls from Pawness. They’re not only stylish but also hygienic and eco-friendly.

How often should your puppy eat?

Your puppy’s age determines how often they need to be fed:

• 8–12 weeks: 4 meals a day.
• 3–6 months: 3 meals a day.
• 6–12 months: 2 meals a day.

Stick to fixed feeding times. This helps with potty training and provides structure for your puppy. Also, always ensure your puppy has access to fresh drinking water.

Potty training: Patience is a virtue

Why consistency is important

Potty training is one of the first lessons your puppy needs to learn. It requires time, patience, and, most importantly, consistency. Puppies don’t yet understand where they’re supposed to go, so it’s up to you to guide them step by step.

Step-by-step potty-training guide

1.    Take your puppy outside often

Bring your puppy outside after every nap, meal, and play session. This is when they’re most likely to need to go.

• Use a designated spot
  Puppies recognise smells and associate them with where they should go. Choose a specific area in your yard or on a walk.

• Reward good behaviour
  Immediately reward your puppy with a treat (like one from your Pawness Treat Bag) whenever they go outside. Positive reinforcement works much better than punishment.

How to handle accidents

Accidents in the house are normal and part of the learning process. Don’t scold your puppy, as this may cause fear. Clean the area thoroughly with a natural odour remover so your puppy doesn’t return to the same spot.

Socialisation and training

Why socialisation is essential

The first 16 weeks of your puppy’s life are crucial for socialisation. They learn to interact with new people, animals, and environments during this period. Well-socialized puppies grow up to be confident and friendly dogs.

How to socialise your puppy

• Introduce them to different people: Invite friends and family so your puppy can get used to various faces.
• Visit busy places: Go to parks or dog-friendly areas but keep the experiences positive.
• Meet other animals: This helps your puppy develop social skills and reduce fear of other dogs or pets.

Teaching basic commands

Start with simple commands like “sit,” “come,” and “stay.” Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or toys, to motivate your puppy. Keep training sessions short and playful, as puppies have a limited attention span.

Use tools like the Pawness Treat Bag to keep rewards within reach while training. This makes the process fun and strengthens your bond with your puppy.

Join a puppy training class

A puppy training class can be invaluable for teaching commands and building good habits. In these classes, you’ll learn how to train your puppy positively and effectively handle unwanted behaviours.

Training together strengthens your bond, as you’re actively working as a team. It also provides an excellent opportunity for socialisation, primarily if the classes are held in groups. Your puppy will meet other dogs, experience new situations, and become more confident. Puppy classes are educational and a fun way to help your puppy thrive in new environments.

Vaccinations and deworming

Preventive care is the cornerstone of a healthy puppy. Vaccines protect your puppy from serious illnesses like parvo and distemper. Your vet will provide a vaccination schedule based on your puppy’s age.

Regular deworming is also essential. Puppies are prone to picking up parasites, which can harm their health. Consult your vet for the best deworming schedule.

Coat and dental care

Start early with coat care

Begin brushing your puppy’s coat early so they get used to the routine. Regular brushing removes loose hair and prevents matting. Use a gentle, natural shampoo like the Pawness Bark Bliss Shampoo, specially formulated for puppies aged 12 weeks and older.

Dental care is just as important

Start with a dog-specific toothbrush and gently brush your puppy’s teeth to prevent dental problems later in life. Combine this with chew toys to help reduce plaque buildup and keep your puppy’s teeth healthy and strong.

Caring for and making your puppy shine: Conclusion

Taking care of your puppy is a journey that requires time, dedication, and love. With some preparation, a good routine, and high-quality products, you’re well on your way to giving your puppy a happy and healthy life.

Remember: your puppy grows up fast, so savour every playful leap, cuddle, and silly moment. It’s an experience you’ll cherish forever. And with Pawness, you’re not just doing what’s best for your puppy but also caring for the planet.

Celebrate milestones with puppy milestone cards

Your puppy grows so fast, and those early weeks and months will fly by. With Pawness puppy milestone cards, you can capture all the special moments! Whether it’s their first “sit,” their first walk, or the day they’re fully house-trained, these cards help you create lasting memories.

The cards are perfect for taking photos and make it easy to remember all the milestones you’ve achieved together. You can keep them in a scrapbook or share them with friends and family. Every milestone is unique; these cards ensure those moments are never forgotten.

Enjoy every moment with your new best friend!

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