Contents
5 Tips to Care for Your New Rescue Puppy – First Few Weeks
Bringing home a new rescue puppy is exciting. But with all the things you need to know and do it can also be overwhelming. This may be especially true if you are a first-time dog parent. To help you begin here is a few tips about caring for your new rescue puppy in the first few weeks.
The first few weeks are crucial in forming a strong bond with your furry friend, and providing proper care during this time is essential for their health and wellbeing. As your puppy adjusts to their new surroundings, they may exhibit behaviors that require your attention and patience. Here are some basic tips for caring for your new puppy during the first weeks.
1. Create a Safe Sleeping Environment
Your puppy needs a comfortable and safe place to sleep, away from hazards and distractions such as a crate or puppy pen. Choose a dry, soft bed, and place a cloth or toy with the scent of their littermates or mother to help them feel more secure. Avoid running to your puppy every time they cry or whine, as it can reinforce the behavior. Instead, cover the crate or box with a sheet to help them get used to a sleep routine.
2. Puppy-Proof Your Home
Puppies are naturally curious and mischievous, and they love to explore their surroundings by chewing and biting objects. To prevent accidents and injuries, remove all hazards such as wires, marbles, rocks, and any harmful plants from their reach. Keep an eye on your puppy at all times and redirect their attention to appropriate toys and puppy chew treats.
3. Teach Your Rescue Puppy With Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement training is a safe and effective way to teach your puppy good behaviors and manners. When your puppy exhibits undesirable behavior, such as chewing on furniture or biting, say “NO” firmly and replace the object with a chew toy. Praise your puppy when they behave correctly and offer treats as a reward. Avoid using physical punishment or yelling, as it can create fear and anxiety in your puppy.
4. Proper Nutrition (Food and Treats)
Your puppy’s diet plays a vital role in their growth and development. Feed your puppy high-quality dry food formulated for puppies, which contains essential nutrients and proteins. Avoid feeding your puppy table scraps, this will help avoid potential digestive issues, obesity and getting them into begging habits. Feed your puppy two to three times a day, and remove the dish after fifteen minutes. As your puppy grows, reduce the number of feedings to one in the morning and one at night.
5. Regular Exercise and Playtime
Rescue puppies have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise and playtime to burn it off. Take your puppy for short walks and play games such as fetch and tug-of-war. And socialize them once they have all their veterinary check and old enough. Supervise your puppy’s playtime to prevent rough behavior and provide plenty of chew toys to keep them occupied.
Concluding Caring for a Rescue Puppy
In conclusion, the first few weeks with your new puppy can be challenging, but with proper care and attention, you can help them adjust to their new home and form a lifelong bond. Remember to provide a safe sleeping environment, puppy-proof your home, use positive reinforcement training, provide proper nutrition, and engage in regular exercise and playtime. Your new companion will thank you with wagging tails and puppy kisses!