Puppy Care Guide

Puppy Care Guide:

Do’s, Don’ts, and Must-Have Supplies

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and rewarding experience! To help your furry friend grow into a happy, healthy, and well-behaved companion, it’s important to follow the right care routine. Here’s a simple guide on what to do, what to avoid, and the essential supplies you’ll need.

🚫 What NOT to Do

While puppies are full of energy and curiosity, there are some important things to avoid to keep them safe and healthy:

• No High Places – Never let your puppy jump or fall from high surfaces like sofas, countertops, or beds. Small breeds are fragile and can easily get injured.

• No Skipping Meals – Puppies need regular meals to maintain their energy and blood sugar levels. Always feed on schedule!

• No Unprotected Socializing – Avoid dog parks, pet stores, or areas where unvaccinated animals may be present. Your puppy’s immune system is still developing.

• No Extreme Temperatures – Keep your puppy indoors if the temperature drops below 70°F or rises above 85°F to prevent health issues.

• No Skipping Nap Times – Just like babies, puppies need plenty of sleep to grow strong and healthy. Overexertion can lead to stress and health problems.

• No Sleeping in Your Bed – It may be tempting, but tiny puppies can easily get hurt if accidentally rolled on while sleeping.

• No Contact with Other Animals – Limit interactions with other pets until your puppy is fully vaccinated. This reduces the risk of illness.

• No Unnecessary Handling by Strangers – Not everyone washes their hands before petting a puppy, which can expose them to germs and bacteria.

• No Heartworm Medication Before 12 Weeks – This should only be administered after 12 weeks of age as per vet recommendations.

• No Doggy Playdates Before 4 Months – Puppies are more vulnerable to infections before this age, so wait until their immune system is stronger.

✅ What You SHOULD Do

To ensure your puppy grows into a well-adjusted and healthy dog, follow these best practices:

• Feed on a Schedule – Consistency is key! Provide nutritious meals and occasional treats to keep your pup happy.

• Start Training Early – Teaching basic commands and house training from day one helps prevent bad habits.

• Give Plenty of Love & Attention – Your puppy needs affection, socialization, and reassurance to develop confidence.

• Provide Daily Vitamins – Until 6 months of age, supplement with high-quality vitamins to support their growth.

• Keep Your Puppy Clean – Use tear-free puppy shampoo to maintain a clean, healthy coat.

• Introduce New Experiences – Expose your pup to car rides, music, and household noises (like the vacuum) to help them adjust.

• Establish a Routine – Puppies thrive on structure. Slowly transition them to a routine that works for your household.

• Comfort Your Puppy – If they seem scared or anxious, reassure them with calm, gentle handling.

• Introduce Clothes & Bows Early – If you plan to dress up your pup, start early so they get used to wearing outfits.

• Get Them Used to Grooming – Start brushing their fur, using a blow dryer, and handling their paws to make future grooming sessions easier.

🛍 Essential Puppy Supplies List

To set your puppy up for success, make sure you have these must-have items on hand:

✔ Food & Water Bowls – Fresh water should be available at all times.
✔ Puppy Pads – Potty training outside starts at 12 weeks, so pads help in the meantime.
✔ Small Dog Crate – Helps with nap time, bedtime, and crate training.
✔ High-Quality Puppy Food – We recommend Purina Puppy Chow or Cesar Puppy Chow.
✔ Nutritional Supplements – Nutri-Cal or GNC high-calorie puppy vitamins (for small breeds) until 6 months old.
✔ Puppy Playpen – A safe space for supervised playtime.
✔ Washable Puppy Bed or Towel – Cozy sleeping spot for your pup.

Final Thoughts

Raising a puppy takes patience, love, and the right care routine. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll ensure your new furry friend stays happy, healthy, and well-behaved. Enjoy every moment of this journey—puppyhood goes by fast! 🐶💖

Have questions about puppy care? Drop me a message anytime!