Basic Puppy Care – First Weeks

After you select the puppy of your dreams, you get to take him home, but need a manual to help you 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 wit 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 re-enforcer.  So is a simple scratch between the ears and a hug.

    Feed him a dry food especially made for puppies.Feed him two or three times a day.  Usually after fifteen minutes, the pup will have eaten all he wants, you can remove the dish.  As the pup grows, after ten to twelve weeks of age, feed him one in the morning and once at night.

    All of this should help your new pup get through those first hard weeks away from his family.  The bond forming between you will last a lifetime.

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