So you’ve brought home a bundle of joy–your very own puppy! Like a baby, a puppy is going to depend on you for food, shelter, love, and a whole host of other needs. It’s up to you to provide everything your canine companion needs to live a happy, healthy life. Puppy care is hard work, but it’s extremely rewarding–and it doesn’t have to be confusing. We’ve gathered some simple tips for keeping your puppy healthy. Get ready to get off to a great start with your new friend!
Keep Your Puppy Active
Different breeds have different levels of energy, but all puppies have those whirlwind spurts of activity throughout the day. Take enough time each day to have several periods of playtime with your young dog. Not only will this help her burn off all that energy, learning to play fetch or tugging on a rope can help you two bond. She’ll learn that you are more than just a source of food–you’re a source of fun!
Additionally, scheduling regular playtime or walks with your pup will give you a good idea of her overall health. It’s a lot easier to spot a limp or another injury when she’s running around, rather than just laying down. If you do notice anything out of the ordinary, take a trip to your vet to find out what might be causing the problem.
Choose the Right Diet
They say you are what you eat, and puppies are no exception. You want to make sure that your puppy is getting the right kinds of nutrients as well as the right amount of food. But where do you even begin? There are several different lines of dog food specially formulated for puppies, and it can be hard to figure out which one is the best, or whether your pup even needs something other than the classic kibble. Because diet is so important to your pup’s health, you should talk to your vet before making any changes in food. Ask your veterinarian what kind of food you should be feeding your furry friend, and how much, and you’ll be well on your way to a healthy puppy. Don’t be afraid to use online comparison tools to take a closer look at the pros and cons of your pup’s potential food.
Make Sure His Fur Stays Clean
Ah, bath time. A picturesque, silly, splashy time during which you chase a muddy puppy into a tub, laughing the whole way. It sounds fun, but bathing a dog–particularly a young one who isn’t used to baths–can result in a giant mess. Take a few precautions to ensure you can bathe your puppy regularly and easily, like laying towels out beforehand to soak up any spills.
If you’re giving him a bath for the very first time, give him some time to get used to the tub, hose, or sink before you get him all wet. Gently place him in a few inches of water and allow him to get comfortable. Once he’s ready, you can begin slowly pouring water over him. And don’t forget to pick a shampoo specially formulated for dogs–we don’t want any human soap with scented chemicals in it here!
Brush Your Pup’s Teeth
Brushing your dog’s teeth is probably last on your list of things to do, but dental hygiene plays a huge role in your dog’s overall health. If you allow plaque to build up in your dog’s mouth, you might be clearing the way for problems like stinky breath, tooth decay, and even gum disease–so it’s best to start brushing early. Get your puppy used to having a toothbrush in her mouth by first mimicking brushing motions with your finger. When she’s used to it, you can use a toothbrush and toothpaste formulated specially for dogs to gently clean her teeth. Daily brushing is the best option, but you can also speak with your vet about dental chews or professional teeth cleanings.
Train Her Properly
You might think it’s cute to have a puppy jumping up on you, but you might not feel the same way when that puppy grows into a big dog. That’s why it’s important to teach your puppy how to behave from a young age. If you’re not comfortable setting boundaries alone, or you’re not sure how to train a dog, there are plenty of options available. You can join a group puppy class at your local pet store or even hire a dog trainer for some one-on-one instruction. With praise and positive reinforcement, your puppy can learn everything from housetraining to how to roll over. This will keep both her emotional and physical health up as she finds positive ways to get rid of her energy.
Support Growth and Health with a Wapiti Labs Supplement
Unhealthy puppy signs can range from physical injuries to nutrient deficiencies, and none of them are fun to handle. The best way to keep your puppy healthy is to avoid problems in the first place by starting with a strong foundation–a good diet, the right amount of exercise, and plenty of attention. Supplements can also help keep your furry friend healthy. Wapiti Labs uses elk velvet antler and other natural ingredients to create supplements that can support your dog through all stages of his life. Whether you want to support joint flexibility or promote blood circulation, we have a supplement that can help your puppy stay active and happy for years to come.
At Wapiti Labs, we understand what a precious companion your dog is and how important she is to you. We’re dedicated to your pet’s health and to making sure she can live her best life by your side. Our line of supplements uses natural ingredients to promote healthy bodily functions. Contact us today to find out more about our products.
