Re:Puppy

Question
Hi Patti,Thank you for answering my last Question it was very helpful to me.I have another question I hope you can answer it.I would like to know when I go and see my puppy what things should I look for to see if she is normal or not?.

Angela

Answer

Hi Angela,

This is a very exciting time for you!

Examine the condition of the puppy. There shouldn't be any nasal discharge. The gums should be a bright pink; a pale color can mean anemia or a problem with worms. Are the teeth clean and straight? If the upper and lower teeth are undershot or overshot, the problem will not correct itself. Eyes should be bright, clear, and look straight ahead. White spots or visible lines on the surface of the eye can mean problems. The puppy should have bright, clear, open eyes, and be free of any discharge, look blood shot, or have strange coloring or yellowness to the whites of the eyes.  The puppy should not squint or rub at its eyes. The ear canals should be clean and odor-free. A build-up of wax and dirt, head shaking, or tenderness could indicate ear mites or infection.

Does the puppy cough or gag?  These can be signs of kennel cough or collapsing trachea. Does the puppy continually lick the urinary tract opening? This could be signs of an infection.

Feel the stomach. A swollen stomach can indicate poor diet or possible worm infestation. A bulge at the navel or groin can mean a hernia.  The genitals should be clean and free from irritation, which could indicate worms, diarrhea, or a digestive disorder. Both testicles should be present in the male. The coat should be fluffy, clean, and free of mats. Sores, itching, or deposits in the fur indicate fleas, mites, or other parasites.

Finally, check for soundness and structure. Are the legs straight and well formed? Does the puppy run without lameness or jerking up one leg as it runs? These could be signs of hip or patellas (knee cap) problems. Be wary of an animal that is thin and underweight or noticeably overweight. The most desirable pet is one that appears correctly proportioned for his age and weight. For an eight week old puppy, a slightly rounded belly, is normal and healthy.

Does the puppy's activity level seem normal?  Most puppies nap for 2-3 hours at a time during the day. When puppies are awake they should be energetic and exploring their surrounding with enthusiasm. Is the puppy playful and happy? Does the puppy seem to be off on its own all the time?  Puppies should be social and wanting to play with their siblings.

Is the puppy eager to come up and meet you? If a puppy seems reserved and shy it might mean that the puppies have not been properly socialized.

Problems that affect most toy dogs also affect Maltese. Dental disease, Maltese tear stains, knee problems (luxating patellas). You should have your dog checked thoroughly by an independent veterinarian (not the breeder's vet) before purchasing. This is the best money you'll ever spend and no reputable breeder will refuse or be offended. Quite the contrary actually, a good breeder will be impressed, that you make the extra effort to buy a healthy puppy!

The following web site has a lot of info that you might find helpful as you prepare to bring home your new puppy:

http://www.ehow.com/topic_433_new-puppy-checklist.html

Best of luck!
Patti