Frequently Asked Questions
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How often should I bathe my puppy?
Puppies generally don’t need frequent baths—about once a month is usually sufficient unless they get particularly dirty. Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils, leading to dry skin. Always use a puppy-specific shampoo or a gentle, fragrance-free baby shampoo to avoid irritating their sensitive skin.
What’s the best way to introduce my puppy to their new home?
When you bring your puppy home, give them a quiet space to explore and get used to their new surroundings. Have their bed, toys, and food ready for them, and allow them to explore at their own pace. It’s important to stay calm and patient, letting them gradually become comfortable with their new environment.
What type of food should I feed my puppy?
Puppies require specially formulated puppy food that is high in essential nutrients like protein, fat, and calcium to support their growth and development. Choose a high-quality brand that lists meat as the first ingredient, and consult with your vet for recommendations specific to your puppy’s breed and size.
When should I start training my puppy?
Training can start as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Start with basic commands like “sit” and “stay” using positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise. Puppies have short attention spans, so keep training sessions brief but consistent to help them learn and grow.
How do I stop my puppy from chewing on things they should not?
Chewing is a natural behavior, especially during teething. Provide your puppy with safe, chew-friendly toys to satisfy their need to chew. If they start chewing on furniture or other items, gently redirect them to an appropriate toy, and make sure to puppy-proof your home by keeping tempting items out of reach.
How much exercise does my puppy need?
Puppy exercise needs depend on their age and breed. Small and toy breeds generally require less exercise, while larger or more active breeds need more time outdoors. A good rule of thumb is to provide your puppy with short, frequent walks or play sessions, gradually increasing as they grow older.
What grooming tools do I need for my puppy?
Basic grooming tools include a soft-bristle brush, nail clippers, and puppy-safe shampoo. Long-haired breeds may also require a detangling comb and conditioning sprays. Regular brushing helps keep your puppy’s coat clean and prevents matting, while trimming their nails and cleaning their ears are essential to maintaining overall health.
When should I take my puppy to the vet for their first check-up?
Your puppy should have their first vet visit within a week of bringing them home, or earlier if they show signs of illness. This initial check-up will include a general health assessment, vaccination schedule, and deworming plan. Regular vet visits are important to ensure your puppy stays healthy as they grow.
How can I keep my puppy calm during bath time?
Bath time can be stressful for new puppies. Start by using lukewarm water and a calm, soothing voice to reassure them. Make sure you have all the necessary supplies—like shampoo, towels, and a non-slip mat—ready before you begin. You can also give them treats during and after the bath to associate the experience with something positive.
What size bed should I get for my puppy?
The size of the bed depends on your puppy’s breed and how much room they need to stretch out. Small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus prefer cozy, nest-like beds, while medium breeds like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels may need a larger, cushioned bed to support their growing bodies. If you’re unsure, check out our Puppy Bed Guide for recommendations on finding the perfect bed for your furry friend.
Puppies generally don’t need frequent baths—about once a month is usually sufficient unless they get particularly dirty. Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils, leading to dry skin. Always use a puppy-specific shampoo or a gentle, fragrance-free baby shampoo to avoid irritating their sensitive skin.
What’s the best way to introduce my puppy to their new home?
When you bring your puppy home, give them a quiet space to explore and get used to their new surroundings. Have their bed, toys, and food ready for them, and allow them to explore at their own pace. It’s important to stay calm and patient, letting them gradually become comfortable with their new environment.
What type of food should I feed my puppy?
Puppies require specially formulated puppy food that is high in essential nutrients like protein, fat, and calcium to support their growth and development. Choose a high-quality brand that lists meat as the first ingredient, and consult with your vet for recommendations specific to your puppy’s breed and size.
When should I start training my puppy?
Training can start as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Start with basic commands like “sit” and “stay” using positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise. Puppies have short attention spans, so keep training sessions brief but consistent to help them learn and grow.
How do I stop my puppy from chewing on things they should not?
Chewing is a natural behavior, especially during teething. Provide your puppy with safe, chew-friendly toys to satisfy their need to chew. If they start chewing on furniture or other items, gently redirect them to an appropriate toy, and make sure to puppy-proof your home by keeping tempting items out of reach.
How much exercise does my puppy need?
Puppy exercise needs depend on their age and breed. Small and toy breeds generally require less exercise, while larger or more active breeds need more time outdoors. A good rule of thumb is to provide your puppy with short, frequent walks or play sessions, gradually increasing as they grow older.
What grooming tools do I need for my puppy?
Basic grooming tools include a soft-bristle brush, nail clippers, and puppy-safe shampoo. Long-haired breeds may also require a detangling comb and conditioning sprays. Regular brushing helps keep your puppy’s coat clean and prevents matting, while trimming their nails and cleaning their ears are essential to maintaining overall health.
When should I take my puppy to the vet for their first check-up?
Your puppy should have their first vet visit within a week of bringing them home, or earlier if they show signs of illness. This initial check-up will include a general health assessment, vaccination schedule, and deworming plan. Regular vet visits are important to ensure your puppy stays healthy as they grow.
How can I keep my puppy calm during bath time?
Bath time can be stressful for new puppies. Start by using lukewarm water and a calm, soothing voice to reassure them. Make sure you have all the necessary supplies—like shampoo, towels, and a non-slip mat—ready before you begin. You can also give them treats during and after the bath to associate the experience with something positive.
What size bed should I get for my puppy?
The size of the bed depends on your puppy’s breed and how much room they need to stretch out. Small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus prefer cozy, nest-like beds, while medium breeds like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels may need a larger, cushioned bed to support their growing bodies. If you’re unsure, check out our Puppy Bed Guide for recommendations on finding the perfect bed for your furry friend.