Pets

2016 Puppy – Pets

Cute and cuddly though they may be, puppies require lots of special care and training before they can grow into man’s best friend.


For the first several weeks after birth, puppies are completely dependent.  Veterinarians recommend they stay with their mother and littermates for at least eight weeks before they are weaned.  This allows time to grow strong and learn important social skills as they play with their siblings.


By eight weeks old, most puppies are ready to be adopted and can begin learning basic commands.  Because they tend to only hear the first syllable of a word, commands should be clear, concise, and not too similar to the puppy’s name.  This is also the time to start teaching obedience and socialization.  Like many baby animals, puppies need to feel safe as well as loved.  Establishing routines can increase a puppy’s sense of security and make training easier.


Housebreaking can be one of the more challenging aspects of raising a puppy.  For the first eight months, puppies can only control their developing bladders for a short time.  But if owners are aware of this and remember to take their puppy outside 15 minutes after mealtimes, it can speed up the housebreaking process.  And once that hurdle is crossed, a lifetime of love and companionship awaits!