Top 6 Questions New Puppy Owners Always Ask

Hey, everyone! So, you’ve just brought home a little furry bundle of joy – a new puppy! As exciting as it is, it can also be a bit overwhelming, right? You're probably filled with a mix of joy and a touch of anxiety, wondering if you're ready to handle all the 'puppy moments' that come your way. Well, don't worry, because every new puppy owner has been right where you are, and they've all had questions – lots of them. Here are the top six questions that almost every new puppy owner asks, along with some friendly advice to get you started on the right paw.

1. How often should I feed my puppy?

This is like, the most popular question! Puppies are growing fast and they need the right amount of nutrition to help them grow healthy and strong. Typically, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Once they reach about six months old, you can reduce it to twice a day. It's important to use puppy-specific food that supports their development. And remember, the feeding amount might change as they grow, so keep an eye on their diet and adjust as needed.

2. What's the best way to potty train my puppy?

Ah, potty training – it can test your patience, but hang in there! Consistency is key. Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. Always praise them when they do their business outside. Puppies thrive on positive reinforcement, so make sure you're letting them know they're doing a great job.

3. How do I teach my puppy not to bite?

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so biting is a natural behavior. However, it’s important to teach them what’s acceptable to chew on and what’s not. Whenever your puppy bites, offer a toy instead, and praise them for switching their attention. If they bite you, let out a gentle yelp to let them know it hurts and ignore them for a few moments. They’ll soon learn that biting leads to no play, and that’s no fun!

4. When should I start training my puppy?

Start right away! Young puppies are like sponges, soaking up everything. Simple commands like sit, stay, come, and their name are a great starting point. Short, positive sessions work best. Just a few minutes a day can set a good foundation for future training.

5. How can I make sure my puppy is social?

Socialization is super important! It helps your puppy grow up to be a friendly and confident dog. Introduce your puppy safely to different people, dogs, environments, and situations. Remember, all interactions should be positive. Start this process after they’ve had their vaccinations and keep it controlled and calm.

6. What should I do if my puppy gets sick?

First of all, try not to worry too much – a bit of a hiccup here and there is common with new puppies. Know the signs of illness: loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any of these, contact your vet. Keeping up with regular vet visits and vaccinations is crucial to keeping your puppy healthy.

So, there you have it – the top questions from new puppy owners, and a bit of advice for each. Remember, having a new puppy is a wonderful experience filled with lots of cuddles and some learning curves. Enjoy every minute of it, and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures!

Love and tail wags,

Laura Harris :-)