Puppy Shots Age
Give Your Pup a Healthy Start
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Whether you are a first-time dog owner or just want to learn a little more about the general needs of a canine, it is important that you understand that there are quite a few different aspects to taking on the responsibility of raising a dog. We’re going to talk about some basic needs that should be met when raising your puppy.
The first important item on the list of raising a puppy is to understand the importance of vaccinations. Puppies, much like infants, need a boost to help their immune system to help it learn to defend against certain types of illnesses that dogs are prone to catching. At six weeks of age or older, a puppy usually receives three “core” injections spaced about three weeks apart. The puppy will then return to the vet every year after for a “booster” shot. It is important that you have your puppy vaccinated as early as possible (although no younger than six weeks of age) so that he does not contract a several disease such as parvovirus.
Another important part of owning a puppy is to pay attention to his hygiene. While dogs may not seem like the most complex pet, they do require basic bodily care. The amount of time and effort put forth to grooming your dog will largely depend upon the breed that you have. Some breeds have longer coats that need frequent brushing and trimming, others have long ears that must be cleaned periodically. All dogs should be bathed once in a while and attention to dental care would not go amiss. You can purchase a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs, and all you have to do is brush in a circular motion, followed by a vertical motion—just like we brush our own teeth. Do this about three times a week and allow your dog a nice chew toy or bone once in a while and he is sure to have strong, healthy teeth.
The last thing we’re going to talk about when caring for a dog is the importance of choosing a good brand of dog food. There are certain things that dog food companies don’t want you to know, and one of them is that they don’t always provide the highest quality nutrients…or even moderate quality, for that matter! Some dog food is primarily made of meat by-products which can include road-kill and euthanized animals! It’s important that you learn how to read dog food labels and understand what nutrients your dog should be getting. This way you will know whether or not a particular brand can meet your dog’s needs. All food should have a balance of protein (from a specified source of meat), carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
You can learn more about doggy hygiene, diet, and health by visiting the Dog Food for Life website.
