Puppies

updated 23rd December 2011

DID YOU KNOW?

• A fat puppy is not a healthy puppy. A big heavy pup is more likely to injure itself.

• The only exercise a puppy under 12 months of age needs is free play. And puppy shouldn’t be left to play unsupervised with any larger canine friend—it may only be innocent fun but rough play can damage undeveloped joints and bones

• Don’t let puppy climb steps or jump into the car—again, we need to take care of those undeveloped joints.

• Worming puppy is very important. Puppy is born with worms in their tummy’s and need to be wormed frequently, usually 2-3 weeks. Consult your vet about a future worming program.

• Young puppies need loads of sleep. They’ll have a little play, followed by a big sleep. Don’t let the toddler wake puppy, puppy is not a toy.

• Don’t overfeed puppy—even if puppy gives you that ‘I’m so hungry’ look, just after puppy’s finished his dinner.

• Puppy should have a waist. Run your fingers lightly along puppy’s ribs, if you can feel the ribs but can’t see them, you’re on the right track.

• Don’t rub puppy’s nose in a toileting mishap. Anticipate when your pup needs to go, take him to the ‘right’ place and give lots of praise during toileting. Puppy will want to go when he wakes and after eating a meal.

• Never hit puppy, use a firm ‘NO’. Contact a Puppy School in your area, they’re great for teaching you and puppy basic obedience and great time for socialization. Try the vet or the yellow pages for a contact.

• A Labrador puppy will be with your family for many years, 10 years plus.

• Most of all, enjoy puppy, because he won’t be a puppy for long. Your efforts in puppy’s first months will be the outcome of your adult dog. So don’t take shortcuts and do your very best and you will be rewarded with years of friendship and devotion from your new best friend.