Raising a King Charles Spaniel: Essential Care Tips

Feeding and Care Guidelines for the King Charles Spaniel Puppy:

Typically, a puppy is considered to be in its juvenile stage from 45 to 3 months of age. During this period, the puppy experiences significant changes due to weaning, daily routines, and environmental adjustments, which can lead to behavioral and emotional instability and a decrease in appetite. Additionally, the puppy's immune system is still developing, and it may be more susceptible to illnesses. However, this is also a crucial time for the puppy to grow and gain weight, so it is essential to pay close attention to its feeding and care. For a King Charles Spaniel puppy, it is important to start with water before feeding. Initially, feed the puppy to about 78 parts full. Opt for commercial puppy food, which is wellbalanced and suitable for the puppy's digestion. Moreover, it is advisable to consult with experienced friends or a veterinarian before bringing a new puppy home. This will help in conducting a health check and planning for vaccinations and deworming.

Feeding Methods:

The King Charles Spaniel is known for its quiet nature but has a voracious appetite. While the claim that it can eat as much as seven chickens at once may be an exaggeration, it does highlight the breed's tendency to eat a substantial amount. To ensure a robust and sturdy growth, it is crucial to provide the puppy with an adequate supply of food.

This breed is physically strong and requires ample exercise in addition to a proper diet. Regular exercise not only meets its natural needs but also helps prevent obesity. Providing a spacious and entertaining environment is vital, and if possible, taking the puppy for runs on outdoor grassy areas during weekends is beneficial.

The King Charles Spaniel is patient and kind with children, and its loyalty to its owner is unwavering. Owners need not worry too much about its interaction with family members. However, it is still important to remind parents that proper training and good habits from a young age are essential for the puppy to be wellbehaved and get along with the family.

Common Care Considerations:

1. Deworming:

It is generally recommended to deworm the puppy 20 days after birth, followed by a threeday deworming session at 3035 days, and another deworming before 60 days. In countries like the UK, the Netherlands, and Hong Kong, the following deworming schedule is commonly used: the first deworming at 2 weeks, followed by every 2 weeks from 2 to 8 weeks, once a month from 2 to 6 months, and every 3 months after 6 months. Adult dogs should be dewormed every three months, with intervals that can be extended based on the situation. Different deworming medications are used for various parasites, and some require microscopic examination, such as for giardia and coccidia.

2. Vaccinations:

Canine vaccinations are crucial, and the first multivalent vaccine is usually administered at 28 or 4560 days, followed by the second and third doses 2530 days later. Alternatively, the first dose can be given at 5060 days, the second at 8090 days, and the third at 6 months. Vaccinations should not be given too early, as it may weaken the puppy's immune system inherited from its mother (except for the twovalent vaccine). Vaccinations given with less than a 15day interval can lead to excessive virus accumulation in the puppy's body, causing severe consequences. Adult dogs should be vaccinated annually, while puppy vaccinations are particularly important, starting with the first multivalent vaccine at 5060 days, followed by the second dose at 8090 days, and the third dose by the puppy's sixth month.

For more information on dog care, you can read the article "Doggie New Home Feeding Tips" by clicking here.