Collaborative Post
You have decided to get a new puppy, but what comes next? Raising a playful pup is not without its challenges.
Keeping your new pups’ health top-notch is the primary concern with many new dog owners. The right food and natural dog treats will go a long way in maintaining a shiny coat and healthy teeth.
A puppy won’t be able to tell if he is sickly; it is on us to maintain their health. Besides a glossy coat and sparkling eyes, a healthy puppy is a bundle of energy.
Nutrition
Like children, puppies need a well-balanced diet to keep them strong and healthy. An animal’s immune system is directly connected to the quality of its diet.
When designing your new furbaby’s eating plan, keep in mind that dogs, like humans, are omnivores; this means that they need meats and plants. Even though they can obtain these nutrients from sources other than vegetables, boosting their immune system will enhance their health.
Many pet parents will give their companions fruit and vegetables as treats. Fruits like apples, bananas, and oranges are packed with essential vitamins.
Regular Veterinary Visits
The first place you visit with your new best friend should be the vet’s office. The first vet’s visit is crucial. At your first vet appointment, you will be able to determine if your pup has any severe illnesses or congenital disabilities. Discussing an excellent preventive routine and what food your pooch needs should be on your agenda.
Ask the veterinarian any questions you might need answers to or for any advice on what to do. Regular health check ups are just as important for your pooch as they are for you.
Regular Grooming
Regular brushing and infrequent bathing of your dog will ensure that his skin breathes appropriately and prevents grease build up. A grease build up will block the pores on his skin and create skin irritations and possibly infections. In the absence of regular removal of his fallen hair, those old hairs will become tangled and pull on his skin, causing sores on his skin’s surface.
Periodically Deworm Your Hound
Did you know that worms can be passed on to humans? It is best to make sure your pup (and you) are free from harmful moochers! Deworming your dog will prevent any serious harm that these freeloaders can cause.
Parasites like worms can cause gastrointestinal issues in a puppy. Worms such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms live in the intestines of many animals. The body is then deprived of essential minerals and nutrients.
There are not always clear signs that your furbaby has a worm infestation. So, it’s recommended to deworm adult dogs every three months and puppies monthly until six months of age.
Vaccination Schedule
When your puppy is born, they receive a temporary immunity to some diseases from its mother. This immunity will need to be replaced by vaccines. These shots are essential for a long, whole, happy life. A vaccine will prepare your furball’s immune system against contagious and harmful diseases. Often prevention is the only option.
There has been no development in a cure for a range of pet diseases like rabies, parvo, and distemper. Every three years, a dog must receive the rabies vaccination. Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted to humans and is also incurable.
Exercise
Obesity is a fairly common health problem in dogs. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for your puppy’s joint and heart health.
Occasionally you may ask yourself, “Is it that important for my dog to exercise?” especially after a long day at the office. The simple answer is yes. If you’re unsure where to start, consult your vet. Every dog’s exercise requirements will vary. A good exercise routine will strengthen your dog’s cardiovascular health.
Simple exercises like walking, swimming, or playing fetch can benefit your pooch. Exercise can be incorporated through games and playtime.
Dental Hygiene
Being a pet parent means you want the best for your fluffballs. Plaque build up is common in dogs, especially by the age of three.
Brushing your dog’s teeth is crucial for their health and their breath. You must gently brush their teeth a few times each week, along with dental treats and dental toys, which will help prevent plaque build up.
Maintain A Clean Environment
Keeping your pet’s environment clean will help fight off parasites and bacteria that cause serious health issues. Our furry friends will be less likely to get seriously injured in a clean and tidy domain. Washing their bedding will prevent a buildup of fur, dander, and dirt. A dirty dog bed is a great place for ticks and fleas to hide and breed.
Pet bowls are germ collectors; you wouldn’t want to eat off a dirty plate, so why should your pet? Keeping your dog’s bowls clean will help prevent the growth of undesirable bacteria that could make them sick.
Mental Well-Being
A dog’s mental health is often directly affected by life changes. Like in humans, your dog’s mental well-being can affect his physical well-being. Depression in dogs can result in a loss of appetite, sleeplessness, and retreat from social situations. It is essential to keep your pup’s mental health in mind when deciding on any new venture.
Always comfort your furry friend if they experience any significant life changes.
Sterilizing
Spaying or neutering your furball can help them live a longer, fuller life. The number of health issues a dog may experience will be reduced once your pet has been sterilized. Spaying your best friend will reduce her risk of cancer and uterine infections.
Male dogs are notorious for lifting their leg on the curtain or bedding. Neutering your fluffball may change unwanted behaviour. However, other ways to change your dogs’ bad behaviour include spending more time with them, getting more exercise, and devoting time to training.
Keeping your puppy in tip-top shape should be at the front of every pet owner’s mind. After all, your pet brings so much joy into our lives that keeping our furbaby’s best interest at heart comes naturally.
