Have you recently adopted a puppy? If so, you’ll want to make note on your calendar: March 23rd is National Puppy Day! Our canine companions are always cute, but they are never more adorable than they are during that charming toddler stage. A local Seminole, FL vet offers some advice on puppy care below.
Those first few weeks and months will very much set the stage for your relationship with little Fido. Keep things positive, but don’t spoil your canine buddy. Lay down the house rules from the start. For example, don’t let little Fido get on the sofa now if you don’t want him doing it as an adult.
Start working on little Fido’s petucation right away. As far as obedience training, the commands to Sit, Stay, Come, and Heel are the most important ones. Housetraining and crate training are also crucial.
Most people know that tail wags are good and bared teeth are bad. However, doggy body language is much more nuanced than that. Tucking the tail, licking the lips, cowering, and slow tail wags are all signs of nervousness. Pay close attention to little Fido!
Socialization is crucial for young animals. If you want your pet to grow up to be friendly and well-behaved, it’s important for him to learn to be open-minded about new experiences. Have a puppy party! Invite friends and family members with polite dogs over to play with the little guy. Incorporate lots of treats and cuddles.
Puppyproofing is a must at this crucial stage! Keep anything you don’t want little Fido gnawing on out of paws’ reach. That includes things like shoes, wallets, phones, socks, and even cell phones. Anything small or sharp is a potential danger. Toxic plants, medicine, chemicals, and plastic bags and wrappers are also unsafe. Ask your vet for recommendations.
As your furry buddy’s teeth grow in, he’ll likely become very interested in chewing and gnawing on things. Provide lots of suitable toys. Kong toys are great for this!
So how does one celebrate this ‘pawspicious’ occasion? Toys and treats are a great bet, of course. Take lots of pictures. Fido’s adorable toddler stage will be over before you know it!
Please contact us, your Seminole, FL animal clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
