Bringing a new bulldog puppy, or any pet, to your house puts a lot of responsibility on you. From keeping them healthy to making them happy, you have just added a new level of accountability you must keep to your pup.
Wondering how you can do that? Keep reading for some tips and tricks on keeping you and your dog happy.
Consider Feeding the Right Food
Depending on the age of the pup, they have different nutritional requirements.
- Puppies 8 to 12 weeks older require four meals regularly.
- Puppies 3 to 6 months older need three meals regularly.
- One-year-old dogs feel full throughout the day after consuming one meal a day.
- Dogs, including larger breeds or pups prone to bloat, need two small meals a day.
Feeding the right amount of food is not your only responsibility. Opting for high-quality dry food is another thing you need to consider. This type of food offers a balanced diet to canines, and you can mix them with canned food, broth, and water. For more nutritious meals, you can add cottage cheese, fruits, vegetables, and cooked eggs to their diet. However, these foods should not be more than 10% of their daily food consumption.
Make sure to avoid human foods for your four-leg fellow, as it can lead to mineral and vitamin imbalances. Also, keep your little friend hydrated all the time by giving them access to water sources throughout the day.
Think about a Space of Its Own
Like their owners, canines also need a space specifically designated for them. It’s true that pups are social animals, and they typically feel depressed and worried when excluded from their family. Although dogs love to spend some time outside, they feel happy to come back and have family time.
However, they won’t always want to cuddle and play. At this point, they will require a crate, kennel, or bed so that they can rest when things become a little overwhelming for them. If you have allowed your little companion to spend time outdoors, give them access to a temperature-controlled room or doghouse. Make sure your pup has a good shelter outside, especially during extreme cold or hot weather, to prevent health conditions.
Establish a Regular Grooming Routine
When it comes to dog care, one of your priorities should be grooming your pet. It’s vital to have your canine’s first grooming session when they are a couple months old. This way, your four-legged friends will not try to run or bite you while you are trying to make them look nice and tidy.
Additionally, regular grooming must include nail trimming, teeth brushing, ear cleaning, baths, and brushing. Brush their teeth every day using a toothbrush, while you can do cleaning, bathing, and brushing once a week. Apart from this, you can do nail trimming once a month.
Give Extra Attention to Physical Maintenance
Canines require exercises to stimulate their minds, burn calories, and stay healthy. Choose exercises based on their breed, age, sex, and level of health. You should know that your canine needs activity and a way to let out their energy; otherwise, they may resort to naughty tactics, like chewing or destroying furniture. Exercises help dogs to kill their boredom, helping to keep your home safe and clean. You can also pick games that can satisfy your pet’s urge to herd, chase, dig, and retrieve.
Besides that, you also need to find an excellent vet for your pet’s long-term health. Regular checkups are essential to prevent any severe underlying health problems your pup may have.
Give Additional Care to Pregnant Dogs
Pregnant dogs need all the same love, with some additional care. During pregnancy, you need to feed them more nutrients and vitamins to give them strength. Consult your vet on what type of food will work for your pup. Try to maintain their daily routine and exercises, not allowing them to become lazy, as it will not be good for their puppies. Take your dog for a daily walk for around half an hour.
Make them as comfortable as you can, and minimize any chances of extra stress for your dog. Take them to the vet at least every couple weeks during pregnancy, especially if it’s her first time.
Bottom Line:
Yes, dog care is challenging. But having a healthy, happy dog will put less stress on you than one that constantly is becoming sick or needing to go to the vet. Consistently do these preventative measures to ensure both you and your pup are as happy as can be!
