Caring for a New Puppy: Essential Tips for Beginners
When selecting a dog, most pet owners tend to opt for a puppy, starting their care from the very beginning of the dog's life. However, due to their young age and the puppy stage, these dogs have weak resistance and are prone to illness, especially in the initial period after they are brought home.
During this critical time, how should pet owners properly care for their new puppy?
1. Avoid Bathing
Newly adopted puppies should not be bathed. Moving to a new environment and leaving their original group can disrupt their endocrine system, leading to a weakened immune response. Even vaccinated puppies may be susceptible to severe illnesses if they catch a cold or other diseases.
2. Do Not Overfeed
It's natural for pet owners to want to spoil their new pets with a variety of treats. However, puppies' digestive systems are not fully developed. Stick to puppyspecific food and avoid giving them snacks or bones, which can be dangerous.
3. Provide a Dog Crate
A dog crate is essential. Place it in a wellventilated, sunny area, and ideally close to where you sleep. This helps the puppy get accustomed to your scent and feel less anxious.
4. Ensure Sufficient Rest
Puppies are more susceptible to stress due to their new surroundings. Allow them to rest as much as possible. Avoid excessive play or exercise, and don't force them to engage in vigorous activities.
5. Monitor Health Closely
Puppies are vulnerable to health issues. If you notice signs like a high or low body temperature, dry nose, excessive yellow mucus, loss of appetite, or a lack of energy, it's crucial to take them to the vet. Additionally, some puppies may bark excessively or have difficulty with housetraining, which can be frustrating for owners.
Dealing with Excessive Barking
Patience is key. If the puppy is barking due to hunger or thirst, address these needs. If the barking is unexplained, use a rolledup newspaper to gently tap the ground near the puppy to redirect their attention.
Housetraining
Puppies have fast metabolisms and usually need to defecate within 10 minutes of eating or drinking. To correct this behavior, be patient and consistent in helping your puppy develop a regular bathroom routine.
