Maintaining puppy health is an important part of caring for a young dog. With their small developing bodies, puppies may be susceptible to certain illnesses, injuries and harmful conditions. Although the number of factors associated with puppy health may seem challenging, there are several basic preventative measures that can help promote overall wellness in young pets.
Following generally recommended guidelines on vaccines, diet, grooming and training may help owners raise puppies with lower risks for unnecessary and potentially costly illnesses and other problems. Here is a summary of some important tips on achieving puppy health through prevention.
Vaccines to Prevent Illness
Natural antibodies against certain illnesses are passed on to puppies through their mother's milk. However, these substances are usually the most active in the first two days after a puppy is born. Vaccines may be one of the most effective ways to help boost a puppy's immune system. These biological substances are designed to immunize puppies against a range of harmful diseases and infections. Veterinarians typically recommend a schedule for puppies to receive specific vaccinations, which are usually administered as injectable shots. Some of the most common vaccinations given to puppies include Canine Distemper, Rabies, Parvovirus, Coronavirus, Leptospirosis and Parinfluenza.
Proper Diet to Prevent Nutritional Deficiencies
Puppies generally receive much of the nutrients they need from their mother's milk. But once a puppy is weaned, it still has specific dietary requirements. Feeding a puppy a proper diet may be one of the keys to preventing physical and developmental problems related to nutritional deficiencies. Veterinarians and other animal care experts may recommend specific amounts of protein, fats and carbohydrates to meet the demands of a growing young dog. Certain vitamins like A, B, D, E and K are important for puppy development, as are balanced amounts of minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Many commercial and specialty food products are designed specifically to meet a puppy's unique nutritional needs.
Regular Grooming to Prevent Skin and Hair Conditions
Puppies also depend on owners to maintain healthy fur, nails and skin. Regular grooming may help prevent a young pet from developing conditions associated with poor hygiene, including many bacterial and fungal infections. Bathing a young dog with puppy-safe shampoo can help remove dirt and debris from their coat and skin. Gently brushing a puppy with a designated brush or comb can help remove excess hair and other particles. This process can also help stimulate a puppy's oil glands. Trimming a young dog's naturally sharp nails may help prevent scratch-related injuries to owners, other animals and the puppy itself.
Training to Prevent Unhealthy Behavior
Training a puppy is a valuable way to help a young animal become
socialized. This process is important to the emotional and physical
well-being of a dog well into adulthood. A puppy that is exposed to a
variety of contact from humans and other animals early on in life may
be less likey to be an anxious, aggressive or frightened adult dog.
Obedience training may also be a valuable way to set boundaries for
puppies. Young dogs that receive effective instruction early may be at
less risk for certain accidents or injuries later in life.