During the pandemic, many people are looking to expand their family with a new furry friend! If you’re a first time dog owner, you may wonder where to start in caring for your sweet – and sometimes crazy – fluffy friend! Not to worry – the Barkery has just the tips to keep your puppy happy and healthy!
1. Don’t Exercise Your Puppy Excessively
Start off gradually – puppies are naturally playful and energetic so they need some good playtime; however, it’s important to not exercise them to the point of exhaustion or injury. A good ratio to follow is five minutes of exercise for each month of age, up to two times per day. For example, if your puppy is 3 months old, they should only exercise 15 minutes twice a day – no more than 30 minutes total for that day.
2. Groom Your Puppy Carefully
Puppies like to get messy! When your pup has finds a muddy puddle or has an accident, it’s good to have a bathing plan! Apart from this, pets need regular grooming to keep a healthy coat - there are two choices: professional or “do-it-yourself” (DIY).
The recommended choice is selecting a professional local groomer in your area. While this costs more than DIY, professional dog groomers understand your pet’s fur type and personality; they have the experience and knowledge to keep your furry pal clean, shiny, and healthy! Plus you get to support your local community! If you choose to groom your pup yourself, be sure you carefully investigate safe products that will support your pet’s overall wellness. Read up on pup-friendly shampoos and find out which brush type is suitable for your pup’s coat. Don’t forget you’ll need a tub and plenty of towels! Want some help? Book a bathing appointment with us!
3. Know Your Pup’s Food Portions
It important to feed your puppy the right amount of food for their development and growth. What’s a good ratio? Start with a bathroom scale! Keeping track of your pet’s nutrition means keeping an eye on their changing weight. Smaller puppies weighing around 5 pounds should be fed ½ cup to 5/8 cup of food a day. 10-pound puppies should have ¾ cup to 1 cup of food a day. If your puppy is 20 pounds, they should be fed 2 ¼ cups to 3 cups of food per day. Always check with your vet and make sure that your pup is getting the right kind and amount of food. Check out our wide variety of puppy foods and treats here.
4. Invest in Puppy Teething Toys
Puppies like to chew things – shoes, carpets, furniture legs, throw pillows, sticks…the possibilities are endless. Sometimes puppies chew things because it’s fun, but it’s important to remember that your pup is also teething and growing. One way to encourage proper development – and save your belongings from sharp little teeth – is to pick the right toys for your puppy. Try to avoid picking toys with small parts that may become detached, so your pup does not swallow them. One good idea is to purchase reusable frozen toys; these help ease the pain of teething and save you money – a win-win. Check out our puppy toys here.
5. Choose a Good Puppy Crate
There are 4 main types of crates, and each serves its own purpose. The first type of crate is a wire crate; easy to transport and collapsible, the wire frame allows for good airflow, something extra to keep in mind for puppies with thicker coats. Another option is a plastic crate, which is durable and sturdy – but often dark inside. A soft-sided crate is good for small dogs and puppies because it is lightweight and made of flexible materials – it also comes in handy for airplane travel. The last type is a wooden crate; these are mostly popular among families who want their dog equipment to add style to the home.
You want your pup to feel comfortable and to grow safely. Your puppy’s first year may seem a bit overwhelming with all the changes and choices to make. That’s why the Barkery and Bath is here to help guide you in making the best possible decisions for your pup. For further information, visit our website. Your little furry friend is so worth it.
