How To Help Care For Your Puppy

A new dog is so exciting. And if you've a puppy then it's also more likely to be a rollercoaster! Like any baby or young animal, as a puppy grows then they go through phases of development. (See this American Kennel Club article for more).

Although of course this applies to any dog (or person)! But as a puppy these are more acute than with an adult dog.

Here are 3 top tips to help you help your puppy to have a healthy life!

Having a variety of safe toys for your pup

Your pet store may have a range of toys. But if your pup likes a good chew or play they may fray or break. So you will need to replace them. Possibly often!

Some breeds of dogs are more inquisitive than others. This means if your puppy gets easily bored then having a few he or she can choose from is a good idea.

Finding a bed your puppy loves

Now there are many different types of bedding your puppy could have. And it's worth considering if your pup loves chewing that spending a lot of money on a bed may prove expensive if he or she eats and rips it!

But of course money should be no object for your special pup. Having a variety of beds in different locations is a good idea. Although your pup needs to have somewhere they know is 'safe' and is their place to sleep. Your pup may feel isolated if they have to be in another room to you. Even in the daytime.

So consider having a bed for 'most of the time', or at night. And a bed where they can sit near you in the evening or daytime.

By doing this at least, will help your pup feel happy to rest and relax. Many "behavioural problems" can stem from a lack of social contact.

Spend time on training your pup

"Behavioural problems" are often an unfair label. Instead your pup is communicating his or her thoughts and wants. If these are not what you want. This is because your pup is learning still. And may also be confused.

Your pup needs to have fun. And learning can made entertaining and fun. Positive reinforcement is really effective. But consistency is vital! It does take time. A lot of time. Keep training sessions short. And use their favourite toys or treats. Again you may need a variety of different toys and treats to help keep training times interesting.

Training should not confuse. So be consistent. But do mix up the things you're training. If you're training "a sit", don't do this so much your pup gets bored. Practise it. But then try something else. Like "a stay", etc.

Also train in different places. When you take your pup out on walks practice learning new skills there too. Learning skills wherever your pup is helpful for long-term life skills!

If you're in the UK, the national charity "Dogs Trust" not only have a useful youtube site (click here) but also offer puppy school classes in a venue near you. Choosing a reputable trainer is essential. And having used Dogs Trust Dog School I can recommend personally!

In conclusion… Help your pup to have an enriching healthy happy life, by using variety. Variety of toys, variety of comfortable places to sleep and sit and variety of treats and training sessions.

Like to share your tips for enriching your dog's life?

Please share over at my Facebook page here

Get other useful information - read this article for information on "How to Take Care of a 6 Week Old Puppy – What to Feed and More"

Like help finding a holistic veterinary surgeon or complementary therapist for your animal?
Please email me at info at taranet . co. uk

Please remember that if your horse, dog or other animal is unwell. Or on any kind of medication or other supplement. Then always speak to your Veterinary Surgeon first before using any supplement or therapy. Even natural ones. To avoid any possible issues.

And do you know someone who'd find this helpful? Please share, the more we can spread awareness of the benefits of natural therapies the better! :)

Find out more about other natural animal therapies here at Taranet. Or read other articles in this Natural Pet Health Blog. Take a look at the sitemap here to explore!

About the Author

Suzanne Harris is founder of this Taranet website at www.taranet.co.uk, and also provides business coaching to horse and dog care and veterinary professionals.