Category: Puppy
- Dog training
- Puppy
Socialising your puppy
Socialisation is an essential part of raising a balanced, confident and trusting dog. The critical socialisation period starts when your puppy is about 3 weeks old and lasts until she is about 12 weeks old.
- Puppy
Puppy with hiccups
Hiccups are as common for us as they are for puppies. Hiccups occur when the diaphragm involuntarily contracts while the larynx closes. Puppies most often hiccup after eating, drinking, getting up or when excited. Causes of hiccups can include:
- Itching
- Puppy
How to treat a puppy with a rash
Rashes are relatively common, for both puppies and adult dogs. In addition to itching, symptoms of a rash may include red spots, dandruff and hair loss. Rashes and itchy skin can be a symptom of a variety of things, and rashes that do not improve must be checked by a veterinarian. The cause of rashes is similar in puppies and adult dogs.
- Puppy
Puppy with diarrhoea
It can be dangerous for a puppy with diarrhoea, as they quickly get dehydrated. Diarrhoea in puppies can also be a sign of more sinister illnesses like parvovirus. Loose stools, however, can also be a symptom of stress, change and a new environment.
- Puppy
Shopping list for a puppy
Pet stores are like heaven for dog lovers. On the flip side they can be overwhelming for new dog owners. There are so many temptations on every shelf; from toys and treats to equipment and clothes. Arriving at the pet store prepared with a puppy shopping list in hand will ensure you get exactly what you need and saving money where you can.
- Puppy
Puppy proof your home
There are a lot of potential hazards in a home that can cause harm to your eager puppy. Puppies are very curious and explore their surroundings by biting, eating and licking things. The checklist below will cover some of the most common puppy proofing you need to do before your dog arrives.
- Puppy
How to choose a breeder
Dogs are such special beings, bringing a lot of joy and comfort. It is however very important to understand your responsibility as a puppy buyer to choose an ethical breeder. Though, why is choosing an ethical breeder important you may ask? When you choose an ethical breeder you support responsible breeding that prioritizes the dog’s health and wellbeing long-term. You support a person who puts the dog’s and your puppy’s needs above financial gain. This ensures healthy lineages of dogs that are physically and mentally sound. In addition to this, choosing an ethical breeder will benefit you long term, as you will have a healthy dog where the risk of inherited disease and ailments is considerably reduced.
- Dog nutrition
- Puppy
When to switch to adult dog food
Since puppies grow and develop rapidly, they have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs. A puppy needs more protein, higher calorie content as well as vitamins and minerals that support a growing skeleton. A proper and balanced diet early in your dog's life is important to building a strong and healthy foundation on which your dog can grow. However, when your dog becomes an adult their nutritional needs change and it is, therefore, necessary to change their food to an appropriate adult dog food. When you should to switch to adult dog food depends on the dog’s breed, size and development.