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How to Take Care of Newborn Puppies
How to Take Care of Newborn Puppies

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How to Take Care of Newborn Puppies

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Bringing a furry friend home is one of the greatest things you will do. If you are someone who has been longing for a furry companion, you should wait no more... however, only if you are confident that you can take complete care of this four-legged angel. Puppies need love and care, so as their caregivers, you need to help them grow into happy and healthy dogs.
 

Stay by your pet’s side throughout its growing stage. This is that time of its life where you need to do more than just provide food, love, and fun times; you must understand dog nutrition, follow the vaccination schedule, and potty train your puppy. Sparing some time and energy to provide your pet with basic puppy care can help you build a loving relationship with your pooch. So, let us explore a few things you can look into while nurturing a puppy. This basic puppy care guide will also keep you informed with what to expect in the first few months of being a caregiver.

  • Bringing your puppy home

Wondering what to know about taking care of a new puppy? Let us start with the most basic things like puppy proofing your house. That is right. Puppies and babies fall in the same category: delicate and fragile! You need to be careful about their surroundings and make sure that there is nothing hazardous around. Puppies are naturally curious. Make sure they do not encounter things like chemicals, electrical cords, harmful houseplants, valuables, and especially breakables. You also need to get necessary pup supplies like a feeding bowl, collar, leash, and more. Set up a cosy corner for your puppy to rest in!

  • Feeding your pooch

Choosing the right puppy food is of paramount importance. You must pick out puppy food that is specifically formulated for growing puppies as it needs the right kind of nutrients to grow stronger. So, avoid adult dog food if your pet is still a pup.
 

Not sure when to make a switch to adult dog food? Well, it totally depends on the breed size. If you have a small or medium breed dog, you can switch to dog food once it turns 9 to 12 months old. If you have a large breed dog, continue feeding puppy food until it turns 12 to 24 months old. Apart from that, make sure your pup always has access to fresh and clean water!
 

This is what a typical puppy feeding schedule would look like: 

  • 6-12 weeks old: Four meals per day 
  • 3-6 months old: Three meals per day 
  • 6-12 months old: Two meals per day 

At IAMS™, we offer a range of puppy as well as adult dog food that nourishes your furry friend with vitamins, minerals, proteins, and other essential nutrients. Our products are made with premium-quality ingredients to ensure that your dog enjoys every bite of its food.

  • Vet visits and vaccinations

Taking your furry friend to the vet is the most important part of taking care of a puppy. Your dog’s first visit to the vet will help you learn about your dog’s overall physical health. Vet visits will also keep you informed about the vaccination schedule.  In fact, it is recommended to make a list of all questions that you may have. This list should include topics like: 

  • Vaccination schedule 
  • Spaying or neutering 
  • Potty training 
  • Basic obedience training 
  • Any symptoms 
  • Diet and nutrition 
  • Deworming
  • Socialisation

Puppies should meet a variety of different people, dogs, objects, and situations – all in a positive way. The most important time for pups to socialise is between three and 12 weeks of age, however, it should continue throughout a puppy’s development. As pet parents, you can take your pooch to puppy classes as it provides a great opportunity to socialise puppies.

  • Potty training

You can get started with potty training from the day one. This will help inculcate basic bathroom manners in your dog and will save you from cleaning the floor every time your pooch excretes. So, pick a bathroom spot outside your house and take your pup to the same place whenever it is potty time. Praise it right after it is done. You can also reward it with treats. However, under no circumstances must a puppy be yelled at since it may ignite fear.
 

The best way to train is to reward good behaviour and ignore unwanted behaviour. It is never too early to begin training a puppy, but owners must remember that very young puppies become tired or distracted easily so training sessions should be kept to a short duration.

  • Oral care

Dogs are prone to losing tooth, bad breath, and periodontal diseases. Moreover, they are good at hiding their dental pain. Hence, owners should introduce some form of oral care for their puppy as early as possible. Consult your vet to ensure that you pick the best dental care option for your pooch.

  • Exercise

Amounts of exercise should be controlled for puppies during growth. They should not be forced to exercise beyond the amount of time they would engage in with another puppy of the same age. Moreover, your furry friend must be allowed to rest when they need to. So, instead of offering a one long playtime period, go for two short walks.

Frequently asked questions

  1. How to take care of your puppy?
  2. Every first-time dog parent must know the following tips to take care of a puppy:

    • Provide complete nutrition
    • Make plenty of water available for your dog
    • Make use of positive training methods
    • Play dog games with your puppy
    • Find a vet that will guide you to take care of a puppy
    • Learn about the puppy vaccination schedule from a vet

  3. How do you handle a small puppy?
  4. Puppies are full of energy. And they can drive you crazy if their energy isn’t utilised. Hence, make sure that you train and exercise with your baby dog every day. Go for walks, play fetch, and praise it for good behaviour. This will condition your puppy to think that good behaviour is rewarded.

  5. What is the first thing I should teach my puppy?
  6. Dogs do not know how to live in a house. As dog parents, we need to teach them some basic manners. Start by teaching your pet its name and then move on to potty training. Dogs are social beings; hence, do not forget to teach your dog to stay calm and polite in public places.

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    Benefits & Side Effects of Vitamin E for Dogs

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    In the realm of pet care and canine health, certain nutrients often take centre stage, and one such nutrient is vitamin E for dogs. While it might get as much attention as the other vitamins, the impact of vitamin E on your dog's well-being is significant. From bolstering their immune system to promoting a lustrous coat, this nutrient plays a crucial role in keeping your furry friend in top-notch condition. Join us as we delve into the world of vitamin E for dogs, exploring its multifaceted benefits and uncovering the sources that can contribute to your pup's overall vitality.


    What is vitamin E?

    Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, is a vital player in the health of both humans and our four-legged friends. Grouped into tocopherols and tocotrienols, this nutrient operates as a stalwart defender against free radicals, those troublemakers causing oxidative stress in the body. In simpler terms, it is a guardian of cells. Vitamin E for dogs supports immune function, maintaining skin health, and even contributing to good vision. The catch is that dogs cannot generate vitamin E in their systems, so it is on us, the providers of kibble and treats, to ensure they get their dose.


    Can dogs have vitamin E?

    Absolutely, dogs can and should have vitamin E as part of their dietary intake. Since our furry friends cannot produce this essential nutrient internally, it becomes crucial to incorporate it into their meals. Dog foods often include vitamin E, but if you are preparing homemade meals or noticing a lack in their diet, supplementation may be necessary. This vitamin is not only a defender against oxidative stress but also contributes to the maintenance of healthy skin, a shiny coat, and a robust immune system. While moderation is key in all things, ensuring your canine companion gets an appropriate amount of vitamin E can significantly contribute to their overall health and well-being. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the right balance for your specific dog's needs.


    Is vitamin E good for dogs?

    Without a doubt, vitamin E is exceptionally beneficial for dogs. Its antioxidant properties play a pivotal role in protecting their cells from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to the prevention of various health issues. This nutrient is particularly crucial for bolstering their immune system, promoting skin health, and ensuring a shiny coat. Dogs experiencing deficiencies in vitamin E may exhibit symptoms such as dull coats, muscle weakness, and impaired vision. Incorporating an adequate amount of vitamin E into your dog's diet can be a proactive step in maintaining their overall health and vitality. However, as with any nutritional component, it is important to strike the right balance, and consulting with your veterinarian is advisable to tailor your dog's diet to their specific needs.


    Benefits of vitamin E for dogs

    Vitamin E is an essential nutrient for dogs. From fortifying cellular defences to enhancing skin and coat brilliance, it offers countless benefits. So, let us understand the crucial role of vitamin E for puppies and dogs in their well-being:

    • Cellular defense

    Vitamin E acts as a stalwart defender, neutralising free radicals that can damage cells over time. By doing so, it helps maintain the structural integrity of cells and supports overall cellular health in your dog.

    • Immune support

    A robust immune system is crucial for your dog's well-being. Vitamin E enhances the production of immune cells, fortifying your dog's defence mechanisms and aiding in the prevention of infections and illnesses.

    • Skin health

    Vitamin E for a dog’s skin is nothing short of magic, contributing to the maintenance of healthy skin. It helps alleviate dryness and irritation, making it particularly beneficial for dogs prone to skin allergies or dermatological issues.

    • Coat brilliance

    The link between a shiny coat and good health is well-established. Vitamin E for puppies and dogs plays a huge role in promoting skin health and hydration directly contributes to the vibrant, glossy appearance of your dog's coat.

    • Vision maintenance

    In the realm of ocular health, vitamin E plays a role in maintaining good vision in dogs. Its antioxidant properties extend to the eyes, helping to protect against age-related degeneration.

    • Muscle and nerve function

    Supporting the health of muscles and nerves, vitamin E for dogs benefits your baby’s overall mobility and vitality. This is particularly important for active dogs and those engaged in regular physical activities.

    • Reproductive health

    For breeding dogs, vitamin E is essential for reproductive health. It aids in fertility and ensures the healthy development of embryos, supporting a smooth reproductive process in females.

    • Anti-inflammatory properties

    In conditions like arthritis, where inflammation is a concern, vitamin E's anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial. It may help manage inflammation and alleviate discomfort in dogs with joint issues.
     

    Incorporating vitamin E into your dog's diet offers a holistic approach to their health, addressing various aspects from the cellular level to visible markers like coat condition. As always, consulting with your veterinarian ensures a tailored and effective approach based on your dog's unique needs.


    Vitamin E supplements and foods

    As we curate the perfect blend of flavour and nutrition for our furry companions, let's explore a canine culinary journey featuring vitamin E-rich ingredients. From eggs to safflower oil, each element not only tantalises your dog's taste buds but also delivers the essential goodness of vitamin E, contributing to their overall well-being in delightful bites.

    1. Eggs: Serve up scrambled or boiled eggs for your dog, a protein-packed treat that also delivers vitamin E, promoting a healthy coat and immune system when incorporated into their diet.
    2. Salmon: Cooked salmon is a canine delight, offering not only a burst of omega-3s but also a dose of vitamin E, supporting skin health and bolstering your dog's overall well-being.
    3. Trout: Grilled or baked, trout is a tasty option for your pup that not only satisfies their taste buds but also provides essential vitamin E, contributing to a shiny coat and robust immune system.
    4. Spinach: Lightly cook spinach to harness its nutrient-rich benefits, including vitamin E, but be mindful of moderation due to oxalates, ensuring a balanced addition to your dog's meals.
    5. Safflower oil: A drizzle of safflower oil not only enhances flavour but also introduces vitamin E into your dog's diet, conveniently supporting their overall health when used judiciously.
    6. Sunflower oil: Enhance your dog's meals with a touch of sunflower oil, a source of both flavour and vitamin E, promoting skin and coat health when incorporated in measured amounts.
    7. Soybean oil: Exercise caution due to potential allergies, but in moderation, soybean oil can be a vitamin E-rich addition, providing flavour and nutritional benefits to your dog's meals.

    In the nutritional narrative for our canine friends, vitamin E emerges as a hero, weaving a tale of immune resilience, skin radiance, and overall vitality. Its antioxidant prowess safeguards cells, ensuring a robust foundation for your dog's well-being. As you curate their meals, let vitamin E take the centre stage, offering not just nourishment but a key ingredient in the recipe for a thriving, tail-wagging companion.

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