Has your puppy settled into bad habits? Well it's still not too late to tackle them and set up a healthy daily routine!
Feeding
Like most owners, you have probably tried a number of pre-prepared dog foods and settled on your puppy's preferred brands. Hopefully you have been using a 'growth' formula, which is specifically blended for your puppy, providing the extra vitamins and minerals he needs.
Check the food packaging and you will see that it not only recommends a daily amount of food, but also provides a guide on when to change from a 'growth' to an 'adult' formula. This varies slightly depending on the brand of food and the breed of dog. If you are in any doubt, check with your local vet for advice. The adult formula will be more appropriate for your dog as growth slows and he begins to mature.
Changes in diet should always be approached gradually. Mix small amounts of the new food with the old, adding a little more each day until the new food takes up most of the bowl. Try to keep meal times the same each day, it is all part of setting a routine.
Weight
Many owners believe a happy puppy is one that is allowed to eat until he feels he's had enough. Unfortunately, like humans, this is a poor guide to his actual needs and can lead to obesity. Again, check the food packaging for the recommended smallest quantity of food for a puppy of his size. It may be worth calling the manufacturer's helpline and checking in with their experts if you are at all unsure. If he starts to look thin, you can always increase the amount.
There is a simple way to check whether your dog is overweight. If you can't feel his ribs, or he appears to have no waistline when you are looking at him from above, then chances are he is carrying too much weight.
Avoid treats and definitely keep him away from human foods which are too high in salt, fat and protein.
Exercise
There is no standard exercise routine that suits all dogs. Certain breeds need long periods of sustained exercise, while others require a short trot round the block. A look at his build will give you some idea of his athletic prowess. A walk is more than just about exercise, it's an opportunity to socialise and help him adjust to his environment safely.
Teeth
Domestic pets like your dog need a dental routine just like other members of the household. Start this while he's still a puppy and he will be happy to do this willingly when he matures into adulthood. Use a soft human toothbrush, or a specially designed canine tooth brush. When he is happy with a brush in his mouth (you can encourage a reluctant puppy with a small dog treat) graduate to using a little canine toothpaste.
Dry dog food is quite effective at keeping teeth clean, as are some specially designed dental chews.
Your vet should check your dog's mouth as part of any routine visit and in later life will probably offer scale and polish treatments to keep teeth in good condition.
Grooming
This activity performs two important functions. The most obvious is the removal of dead hairs and the opportunity to check for parasites such as ticks and flees. These can be dealt with easily - ask you vet about suitable treatments.
The less obvious function is the role grooming plays in the socialisation of your puppy. Not only does he get used to being handled, but the act of grooming helps establish in your puppy's mind that you are the boss. Don't forget your dog is a natural pack animal and it is important that he understands you are in effect the pack leader. Doing this early on will help you avoid lots of potential problems in the future.
With a settled daily routine of feeding, exercise, teeth and grooming, you'll have a happier dog and a happier family.
