Puppy Care

                            How to care for your new puppy                           

For  the first 72 hours get acquainted; you and your new baby need time, so

                                                                                                keep them at home.

Limit taking them around strange dogs until their vaccinations are complete.

Your puppy has been on a strict vaccination and worming program. You will be given a record of this and instructions on further health needs.

 The small tiny breeds do not eat well sometimes. We recommend Royal Canin Puppy food, Eukanuba Puppy or Iams Puppy. These are excellent brands. If your puppy doesn't eat the food dry, add a couple spoons of canned puppy food to the dry food. We recommend Little Ceasar, Pedigree puppy or any canned Iams or Eukanuba canned food.

 Remember that your puppy is a baby. They need to be warm and will get sick if chilled. You can put a heating pad under your puppy’s crate on low if chilly.

  It is very important that your puppy get fresh water and food at least twice a day. It is crucial that if your puppy doesn't eat and drink enough, you consult your veterinarian, as waiting even 1 day can be fatal if dealing with tiny breeds.

Don't housebreak your puppy in too big an area. We recommend you use the puppy crate. Your success in housebreaking your puppy will progress quickly if the puppy is confined to a small area while you’re busy and not playing with it.

Your new puppy has been fed two or three times a day. Small breeds will eat 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup each feeding. Some puppies need more or less so you will have to be the judge of that.  However, overfeeding is just as bad as underfeeding your puppy. If unsure, ask your vet. If your puppy is a small breed and he/she becomes a picky eater after arriving home, you can try, temporarily, the following foods to encourage them to eat:

·        Gerber baby meat sticks

·        Lunchmeat such as Braunschweiger, turkey, etc.

·        Chicken cooked in the oven (remove the skin first)

·        Any meat baby food

·       Any canned puppy food

       TIPS FROM CORNERSTONE FARMS

  Things you will need for your new puppy

1.  Food and water bowls                                                         5. Grooming tools

2. Puppy food                                                                             6. Toys

3. Collar and leash                                                                  7. Dog shampoo

4. Bedding  for crate                                                                8.  Crate

                                                Tips for a happy puppy

1. Set your puppy up on a schedule

          Choose a time for feeding, potty training and play that best fits your family. Your puppy may whimper or cry at night at first. Provide him/her with a warm blanket, soft toy and a dim light. Remember, don't let your puppy do things now that you don't want him/her to do later.

2. Puppy proof your home

          Check around your home for dangerous things your puppy could get into. Electric wires, open doors, balconies, medicines etc.

3. Prepare your family by explaining the schedule and rules for the puppy

          Having the families help will make training your new puppy easier.  If everyone works together your new puppy will be trained well for life! Also doing things different each time a different family member takes care of your new puppy will be VERY confusing.

4. Make your puppy feel at home

          Allow your puppy to sleep with an article of your clothing, preferably something you've worn and that smells like you. This way, your puppy will become familiar with your scent and will feel more comfortable in his/her new environment.

5. Groom your puppy at least once a week

          Good grooming habits start early. Regular brushing and bathing will keep your puppy feeling clean and fresh. A clean puppy is less likely to soil them selves in their crate. Dogs have a keen scent for foul odors.  Make a bath fun and rewarding for all!

6. Checklist for Feeding

          Provide food for his/her stage of life. Have fresh water available. Serve the food at room temperature. Watch your puppy's weight. Feed nutritious snacks. Do not allow the children to tease the puppy while eating. Never give stale food to your puppy. Don't change your puppy's diet suddenly. Don't allow your puppy to have brittle bones like chicken.  Follow the food label for increasing/decreasing the amount of food needed.