A GUIDE TO PUPPIES NEEDS

Puppies are truly wonderful, but they can also be very curious and excitable…and can sometimes get in to a bit of mischief. It is important, as responsible owners, to make sure our home is puppy proofed and safe, ready for our new furry arrival.

You should always be around if your puppy is freely roaming about the home while they are still training. Some common hazards to look out for include the following:

  • Many of our favourite plants and flowers can be poisonous to dogs so make sure you do your research!
  • Sharp tools such as forks, secateurs, rakes etc can be dangerous to a small puppy.
  • While ponds may look pretty and relaxing, they are a definite hazard to puppies, puppies will become good swimmers in time.
  • Any exposed electrical wires should be tucked away, puppies will chew anything they can get their paws on.
  • Anything small within reaching distance can be a choking hazard, think about objects left on coffee tables or small toys left of the floor. You should always be around if your puppy is freely roaming about the home while they are still training. Some common hazards to look out for include the following:

THE BASICS

WORMING: Signs of worms to look out for can be intermittent loose stools, pot belly, poor coat, or failure to thrive. Your vet will be able to advise on treatments available as some over-the-counter products should not be used on young puppies.

VACCINATIONS: Let your vet know the date you’ll be collecting your new puppy and what age it will be, they will tell you when to bring the puppy in for vaccinations.  It is best practice to not have too many visitors before vaccinations.

TEETHING:  Milk teeth develop around 3-4 weeks old and your puppy will have 28 in total. They will chew more to relieve the discomfort, so it can help to give them special teething toys.

FLIES/TICKS: Your vet will be able to advise on treatments available as some over-the-counter products should not be used on young puppies.

Socialisation:  Socialising is extremely important and should begin as soon as the puppy is safe to go out after their vaccinations. Adults, children and other animals should all be introduced, but in small numbers on different days. Build your puppy’s confidence and awareness gently over a period of time.

WARNING:

Chocolate is toxic to dogs heart and nervous system and can lead to death.

Onions & Garlic are toxic to dogs leading to blood cell damage and Anemia.

Xylitol is used widely as a sweetner and can be found in sweets and even in some brands of Peanut Butter. It is highly toxic to dogs and can cause liver failure, Hypoglycemia and even death.

Grapes & Raisins are toxic for dogs and can cause kidney failure.

For a full list of hazardous foods consult your vet.­­­

DIET & NUTRITION

PROTEIN:

We are always surprised by how little meat some pet foods contain. That’s why our puppy products contain up to 58%+ fresh chicken and fish from defined sources. It gives them the fuel they need to grow, develop healthy muscles and a strong immune system.

CARBOHYDRATES & GRAINS:

All our Puppy products are 100% grain-free, which means they can be suitable for even the most sensitive of tiny tums.

OILS & FATS:

Healthy fats and oils are super important to help your new pup develop healthy skin and coat, which is why Puppy Days products include salmon oil and sunflower oil (great sources of Omega-3 and Omega-6).

Vitamins & Minerals:

At Barking Heads, we never use any artificial colourings, flavourings or preservatives. The Barking Heads puppy range is totally gluten-free too, making it suitable for even the most sensitive of tiny tums. Approved by vets, these complete puppy foods support strong teeth & bones, and aid brain development. Everything you need for a happy, healthy pup.

Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives, Barking Heads use only the best quality ingredients for your pup.