A To Z Of Puppy Care

Your comprehensive, letter by-letter guide to caring for a new puppy.

- Tim Falk

A CRUCIAL TIME

Puppyhood is a fun, exciting and joyous time for the whole family. It’s also a critical stage in your pet’s development, as the steps you take now can set up your pooch for a long, happy and healthy life. From the right diet and regular exercise to socialisation, training and plenty of quality time with you, there’s much to consider when raising your furry friend.

Read on to find out how to start your pup on the best possible path in life.

BRAIN BOOSTERS

Many pet owners are well aware of the importance of regular exercise for their pet, but mental stimulation is often overlooked. Katie Catherwood from Heads & Tails Pet Care Services in Melbourne, Victoria, says mental stimulation is just as important — if not more important — than physical stimulation.

“Imagine running on a treadmill every day and doing nothing else. Despite being tired, you’d be frustrated and bored and you’d have no sense of purpose,” she says.

Sometimes a mental and physical workout comes as a package deal — for example, a puppy will be mentally stimulated on a walk simply by experiencing new environments, meeting other dogs and practising obedience skills. In the confines of your home, however, you need to get a bit creative to provide mentally stimulating experiences for your pup.

“This can be done in myriad ways,” Katie says, “including using puzzle and occupier toys, playing interactive games or teaching new tricks. Dogs are exceptionally clever creatures whose cognitive abilities are frequently underestimated. Give your dog the chance to exercise her brain every day and not only will she be happy, but you’ll be amazed at how much she can do.”

CHOOSING A VET