Feeding
Please do not change the puppy food when you first get your puppy.
I have started feeding ” PawTree” dry dog food. It is ordered on line and delivered to your location. It contains no fillers. They have a full line of dry feed, treats, and multiple supplements. I am using “Chicken and Oatmeal Dry.”
I have been feeding Purina One Smart Blend, Healthy Puppy Formula, and still consider it to be an excellent food.!
Good things to feed in addition to the above food is: Yogurt, Cottage Cheese, Peanut Butter can be a very good source for Protein (in a situation where the puppy is not eating, Dilute in hot water and syringe in the puppy’s mouth.) The above should be introduced slowly and in moderation. It is good for the dog throughout it’s life time.
Veggies, sweet potato, & fruit can be given for a treat. Sweet potato, apples, carrots, cabbage (my Yorkie loves cabbage), peas, and other frozen veggies. These are natural, nutritious, and easily obtainable.
Hypoglycemia, which low blood sugar, can be the result of not eating, or eating regularly and playing too much. A ‘balance’ of food, rest, and activity must be reached to keep the puppy healthy.
Honey on the gums can bring a puppy out of a low blood sugar on set. Anything with sugar in it will work. (jelly, candy, Karo syrup. pudding)
Nutra-Cal is a product, in a tube, that is very good for some of the very small breeds. It contains vitamins & minerals.
It can be found at feed stores, pet stores, & vet clinics.
Naps and Training
Naps and down time is very important for the younger puppies, especially till you have learned the puppy’s normal schedule, and can recognize the signs of fatigue.
Training will directly relate to your schedule, and the age of the puppy. The younger the puppy, the food will need to be left out most of the time, if not ‘all’ of the time. I catch mine eating during the night. Older or larger puppies, can have their food taken away before several hours before crating, which gives enough time to potty. Crate training is good for many reasons. Put the puppy out first thing after a nap, or early morning, and after eating. A young dogs becomes comfortable in his home crate and learns to be silent at necessary times, or when they are boarded, in you absence. Less stress if they understand the crate in their safe place.
Keep ear hair pulled out of a non-shed dog. Yorkie, Maltese, ShihTzu, Bichon, Poodle, or the crosses of these breeds. Fluids, and oil, can contribute to an infection and fungus. Cleaners and ointment are good for preventing infections and fungus.
Give a command one time, never repeated over and over.
Teach your puppy to lead on the left, stand by your side rather than approaching other dogs or people. (that comes with age)
The crate or wire kennel is to be a safe haven and a security spot. In time, they should learn to love their spot and feel relaxed there.
Start Heart Guard by 6 months of age.
Bordetella, if they are going to a groomer, or being boarded.
Rabies, on tinies, later than recommended, 5 or 6 months.
Good luck and call if I can clarify, or assist in the daily care of your puppy.