Dog Health
Puppies are a wonderful part of our life. To help puppies and dogs achieve healthy minds and bodies takes the help of the mother dog, trainers, the veterinarian, the breeder and of course, the new owner.
Socialization is a very important part of a dogs development.This begins with the breeder at an early age until 8 weeks old where he new owners will take over.
Dogs benefit from human and dog interactions all their life but from the ages of 3-16 weeks are vital for normal responses to social input. Socialization school is vital at this time and enrolling a pup into classes around 8 weeks will serve you tremendously. Breeders and vets can recommend trainers and classes that will benefit your puppy.
DIET
- Match food to size and life stages.
- Treats should not exceed 10% of total diet.
- Table scraps are. not recommended.
- Clean fresh water changed daily.
FEEDING
- Feed puppies 3-4 times daily and adult dogs 1-2 times daily. Advanced, natural or essential dog food.
- Follow the recommendation on the bag and consult your vet for your pets' individual needs.
- Feed large, deep chested dogs 2-3 smaller meals a day to avoid 'BLOAT', a serious condition that causes food to be trapped in the stomach.
HOUSING
- Dogs enjoy human company. Try to spend as much time with your dog through play and training daily.
- Choose a dog that matches your housing constraints.
- Leaving a dog outside unattended is not recommended. Tie outs and tethers should only be used temporarily and always supervised.
SIGNS OF A HEALTHY ANIMAL
- Active and responsive
- Eats and drinks regularly
- Clean fur
- Walks normally (toe nails clipped as well)
- Clear eyes and nose
VACCINATION INFO
- 8 weeks-First series (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus)
- 12 weeks- Second series
- 16 weeks - Final series and Rabies
- Distemper annually
RED FLAGS. (See a vet)
- Missing fur
- Diarrhea or dirty bottom
- Uneven gait
- Eye or nasal discharge
- Weight loss
- Lethargic
- Excessive thirst
- Foul smelling ears with scratching or shaking of the head.
Also check out https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/