As we know, a puppy requires more special care than an adult dog, both in terms of its eating, as to his education. or its veterinary care. Sometimes it is not easy, because the first months of a dog's life can be somewhat complicated due to its hyperactivity and disobedience, but following some basic tips we will be able to make our puppy grow up healthy and happy. In addition, it is advisable get him used to manipulations from the beginning (brushing, eye and ear checks) to facilitate health checks.
If dog not yet weaned, the situation is more delicate. We must ensure that you receive the necessary food by the mother, and that is in good condition temperature and hygiene. We also have to control their weight and seek ongoing professional advice during the first few weeks. If necessary, use infant formula specific (never cow's milk) and tries alternate shots so that all siblings receive colostrum.
Once the animal stops suckling, it should follow a bland diet special treatment recommended by the veterinarian, which we will gradually modify as the puppy grows. Likewise, we must have a professional check his condition regularly, advising us and administering it. the right vaccines at their age (distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, leptospirosis and rabies; in some areas, prevention against leishmaniasis).
Until the animal does not comply with its vaccination schedule, will not be able to go out for a walk, as they run the risk of contracting some diseases that are transmitted through contact with other dogs or contaminated surfaces. Similarly, can't bathe until this process is complete. In the meantime, practice at home with collar or harness and a leash so that he associates it with positive experiences.
It is also essential that you receive a high nutrient diet and suitable for their age and breed. There are special foods for puppies, which contain a high percentage of vitamins. We must ensure that these foods are of good quality, since white label products usually do not have sufficient nutritional value. Distribute the food in several daily doses according to age and avoid table scraps and dangerous foods.
Lastly, the puppy needs a clean, comfortable and warm space to rest. It should also be a quiet and peaceful area of the house, protected from drafts and where there isn't too much traffic. However, it shouldn't be isolated either, so at the same time it has to be close to us. You can use soakers and, if needed, a specific lure to teach them where to do their business.
Puppy needs according to age
From 0 to 3 months
It's a phase determinant for neurological and emotional development. The predominant role is dream and the eating. keep stable routines and a warm environment, and get him used to gentle handling: caresses, brief brushing and checking his ears and eyes. The plan vaccination and internal deworming is usually started during this period under veterinary criteria.
From 3 to 6 months
They gain independence and energy. It gradually increases. games and walks (when the veterinarian authorizes it) and starts the basic training with positive reinforcement: sit, come when called, and release. The socialization with people, healthy dogs and urban stimuli in a controlled manner.
From 6 months to 1 year
“Canine adolescence” appears. It is normal to see more impulsiveness and limit tests. Increase physical and mental exercise (smell, puzzles, obedience) and maintain coherence in the rules. Monitor the change of baby teeth and request a check-up if you notice dental impaction or persistent bad breath.
Handling and hygiene at home
Get him used to being explored on a stable surface (table with non-slip towel). Brush gently, lift the ear and check for any odours or secretions; if there are any, go to the vet. Clean the external part with small humid towel suitable for dogs and avoids inserting cotton swabs.
For the eyes, use gauze with physiological serum or specific cleansers, avoiding irritation. If your baby's eyes water excessively or become red, consult a professional. Cleaning can be done several times a day if there is eye discharge to prevent reddish staining of the hair.
Bathing can wait until the vet authorizes it after the first vaccinations; in the meantime, resort to dry foams or specific wipes. Always use puppy shampoo and dry your ears well. After walks, clean pads and belly with a wet towel.
Keep the brushed regular (daily for long coats), trim tips in dirty areas and ask your vet to teach you how to cut the nails Safely.
Stage feeding
The first few weeks, the breastmilk provides key defenses. If this is not possible, use infant formula specific. From weaning to youth, it offers feed of puppy starter or equivalent complete diet, divided into several doses and adjusting the quantity to weight and size.
- Evita leftovers and dangerous foods: chocolate, grapes, onions, cooked bones.
- Introduce the solid gradually (porridge, moistened feed) and gradually reduce the water until complete chewing.
- Value toys teethers to relieve teething and protect furniture.
- If you eat very fast, use anti-gluttony feeder and distributes rations to prevent digestive discomfort.
Respect fixed hours and fresh water always available. Consult your veterinarian about the number of feedings: usually 4-5 at the beginning of weaning, 3-4 in the middle months, and 2 as the dog approaches maturity, depending on size.
Preventive health: vaccinations and deworming
The veterinarian will establish the plan with essential vaccines: distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, leptospira, and rabies (mandatory in many regions). In risk areas, it may be recommended leishmaniasis from a certain age.
It is common to start between the 6-8 weeks and complete at 12-14 weeks, with annual boosters. Do not walk or bathe the puppy until it has the minimal immunity indicated by the professional.
Deworming should be internal and external. Internal from the first month with the recommended regimen; external with pipettes, collars, tablets or sprays appropriate to age and weightIn areas with sandflies, use repellents approved by your veterinarian.
Socialization, outings and exercise
Once the walk is authorized, use collar or harness and short leash; practice indoors before going out. Presents people in a calm manner (ask while sitting and reward calmness) and, with other Pets, conduct controlled and supervised meetings, without leaving them alone at the beginning. With cats, avoids chases and offers elevated escape routes.
Short, positive outings, without forcing. After relieving themselves, don't finish the walk immediately; reward and prolong for a few minutes to avoid unwanted associations. Add smell games and short obedience sessions. Try to maintain similar schedules output to facilitate routines.
Education, rest and emotional well-being
Positive reinforcement is the basis: rewards desired behaviors with appropriate treats, caresses or a kind voice. Establish Routines of food, walks, and games. On the first night, place the bed close by to provide to maximise security and your enjoyment., and move it further away as needed. A soft background sound (White noise or calming music) can help.
Puppies sleep more than 12h a day; set aside a quiet, warm, draft-free corner. Take care of your child's need for chewing with safe toys and rotate stimuli to avoid boredom. Use soakers and attractive if you practice indoor hygiene.
Work the separation anxiety with short, discreet exits, without intense goodbyes; leave interactive toys and return in a neutral manner. Teach useful signals such as release y leave for safe coexistence.
Hazards at home and legal requirements
Withdraw small objects swallowable items, cables, toxic plants, and cleaning products. Keep medications up high and offer only safe toys of the right size. Protects balconies and pools and use barriers if necessary. In many places, they are mandatory microchip and the census; some cities require canine DNA registration. Check local regulations.
If the puppy is orphaned
The first two weeks are critical. Maintain a supply of safe heat and controlled: approximately 32°C the first week, 29°C between 7 and 21 days, and 24°C at 30 days. Avoid burns from improperly used thermal blankets.
After each feeding, stimulate urination and defecation with a warm gauze, rubbing the abdomen towards the year. Keep the bed dry and clean. Feed with small bottle and formula at body temperature; if he doesn't suck, go to the vet. As long as the mother is available, give it back to her to lick and stimulate it.
Control the weight gain Weigh your baby daily at the same time; the increases depend on future size. Offer small, frequent feedings (every 2-3 hours at first), sternal position to avoid aspiration, and introduce porridge and moistened starter feed around 4 weeks.
Evita Cow milk and sterilize feeding materials. If you experience diarrhea, apathy, or abdominal distension, seek medical attention immediately.
When to go to the vet
Consult before vomiting, persistent diarrhea, weakness, cough, eye or ear discharge, limping, intense itching, or food refusal. Program periodic reviews to adjust diet, vaccinations, and deworming. If you suspect parvovirus (fever, apathy, vomiting and diarrhea with blood), come urgently.
Caring for a puppy requires consistency, patience, and professional guidance. With a preventative health plan, gentle training, and a safe, enriched environment, you'll lay the foundation for a balanced adult dog and healthy person who will enjoy every stage by your side.