There’s nothing more exciting than bringing a new puppy home to your family. When it comes to proper pet care, taking care of a puppy is vastly different than taking care of an adult dog. As a result, it’s crucial that you have a grasp of good puppy care before taking the leap.

Vaccinations

Puppy vaccinations protect your dog from a wide range of illnesses during the first few months of their life. At this point, your puppy will begin receiving core vaccinations, which include rabies, canine distemper, and canine parvovirus. Your dog may also need additional vaccines depending on their lifestyle. Vaccines should be administered between the first six and 16 weeks of life.

Grooming

Proper puppy grooming is directly linked to good health and wellness. In this case, it’s best to start as early as possible, as this will get your pet accustomed to the grooming process. Cleaning your dog’s ears and ensuring their nails are properly clipped prevents illness and injuries. Additionally, brushing your pup’s coat stops tangles from forming and also helps owners identify ticks or skin abnormalities. In most cases, pet owners can begin grooming their puppies at about three weeks old.

Nutrition

Your pet must receive proper nutrition. It’s best that you give them puppy food as it will be full of the vitamins necessary for a growing dog. Depending on your dog’s breed, you can switch to adult food between nine and 16 months of age. Puppy food also contains added nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids and protein.

If you have questions about puppy care, Ohana Veterinary Hospital will gladly provide answers. These caring veterinarians will support your dog from its first weeks all the way to their golden years, whether you need medical assistance or want to find the most nutritious dog food available. They also offer many other pet care services, including wellness exams, pet vaccines, on-site diagnostics, and dental care. Schedule an appointment in Honolulu today by calling (808) 845-1762. Learn more about the services by visiting the website.