Lesson 1: An Ounce of Prevention
Fulfilling your puppy’s basic needs and understanding his behavior will go a long way toward preventing problems and making his puppyhood a pleasant time for both of you. In this first lesson, we will look at the basic needs of a puppy and ways to puppy proof your home and family.
Puppy Supplies
Bowls
Two bowls, one for food and one for water, that will not easily tip over. Aluminum bowls are easy to clean. In rare cases, a dog will be allergic to plastic bowls.
Grooming Supplies
Puppy shampoo, brushes appropriate for your breed, puppy toothpaste and toothbrush (do not use toothpaste meant for humans)
Note: If you use flea collars or dips, be sure to follow all label instructions as most can not be safely used on puppies under 16 weeks of age.
Collar and Leash
Flat adjustable collar with identification tag, 6 ft leash
Note: Puppies grow quickly and collars need to be adjusted accordingly. Check it for tightness at least every week, and make sure you can slip one or two fingers between the collar and the puppy's neck)
Crate
You definitely want a crate. You may choose a plastic travel crate or a collapsible wire crate. The main thing is to make sure it is just big enough for your puppy to stand up in, turn around in, and lie down on his side in. If you don’t want to purchase several crates during his growth period, there are crates available with dividers.
Bedding
Puppies can be messy so you will want something easy to wash and not too tempting to shred.
Chewies and Toys
Make sure his toys do not have parts that can come off and be swallowed or choked on, such as buttons or “squeakers” or “eyes”. Some chewies come apart easily and puppies can choke on the pieces. Hard toys can chip their teeth. Many people prefer to use Nylabones, Gumabones, Kongs, or rope toys. Carrots and apples also make great snacks for puppy to chew on.
Food
Puppies should be fed two to four times a day and have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. For the first year, and even longer for some large breeds, they will need a premium puppy food of a trusted brand. There has been recent evidence that nutrient-dense foods causing quick growth can aggravate hip dysplasia in some dogs so you will want to check out the puppy food especially for large breeds that is now available. Abrupt changes in diet, as well as milk, fatty foods, and uncooked egg whites, can upset puppies’ digestion. If you want to change your puppy’s food, blend the brands together and change him over gradually. And remember that chocolate is toxic for all puppies and dogs.
