Health Exams

Your first course of action when you have a new dog is to visit your vet. They’ll be able to perform a thorough health examination and will be able to advise you of any health concerns you may need to be aware of going forward. Inform the vet of any vaccinations that have been done or still need to be administered. Write down any questions you may have and bring your dog to the vet once every 6 months for a health check, even if you don’t notice any issues.

Research the Breed

Many dog breeds are more susceptible to certain problems than others, so having an understanding of what may come up will help you plan accordingly, especially if treatment will be necessary. For instance, larger dogs often have issues with hip dysplasia, and pugs have notorious trouble breathing. It’s best to be proactive whenever you can.

Fleas and Internal Parasites

Worming is an important preventive measure that should be taken as early as the puppy is two weeks old. From there, a consistent schedule will be continued as they grow older. Similarly, fleas typically require monthly treatments, even if they are not visible or obvious. Once a flea infestation has taken hold, it’s far more difficult to control than it is to take the preventive treatment steps to avoid it altogether.

Good Eats

It’s imperative you feed your dog well to ensure ongoing health. Avoid foods that contain soy or corn, as dogs are unable to properly digest them. Stick to a balanced diet with good quality proteins and natural ingredients. Understand that your pet’s diet can also affect their dental health. There are a wide variety of healthy treats out there, so don’t feel like that’s off the table. It’s nice to give them a treat, and they can help with obedience training. Finally, never give a dog chicken bones. They are incredibly brittle and can cause choking or lacerations to internal organs.