Basic Puppy Care - First Weeks
After you select the puppy of your dreams, you get to take him
home without a manual to tell you how to succeed at raising him.
The first night is always hard because the puppy will start to miss
his Mom and other siblings. He may cry or whine through out the
night. One can hardly blame him for his actions.
The pup will need a soft, dry, and safe place to sleep. Perhaps
throw in a cloth or toy that has his litter mates or Mom's scent on
it. If you run to him when he cries, you will be reinforcing the
habit. Placing a sheet over the box or crate will get the pup used
to going to sleep at that time.
Puppies are mischievous by nature, and like their feline
companions, get into everything. Be sure hazardous items like
marbles, wires, rocks, and any type of harmful plants are far out
of the puppy's way.
Scolding your pup should be just like telling a child NO.
However, when you tell him NO, you should show him the correct
behavior. For example, if he is chewing up the newspaper, take it
away and replace it with one of his toys. Praise him for chewing his
toy. Reprimands should be sharp and short. Hitting or spanking may
create more problems down the road. The pup can become fearful,
shy, or aggressive. Always reward for proper behaviors. Treats make
a great reinforcer. So is a simple scratch between the ears and a
hug,
Feed him a dry food especially made for puppies. Watch out for
very high protein and extra vitamins as they may be harmful to your
growing puppy. Feed him two or three times a day. Usually after
fifteen minutes, the pup will have eaten all they want, so you can
remove the dish. As thy grow, after ten to twelve weeks of age,
feed them once in the morning and once at night.
All of these should help your new pup get through those first
horrible weeks away from his family. The bond forming between you
will last a lifetime.
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