Getting Your Puppy Used To Certain Handling For Their Long-Term Health
Posted on: 11 November 2015
If you have just welcomed a new puppy into your home, you are responsible for getting your puppy ready for the world. Once thing that will be a part of your puppy's life is letting both you and the vet physically assess them for any ailments and handling needed to keep them out of trouble. Here are three things that you can do to get your puppy comfortable with proper handling that will be a part of their healthy lifestyle as they grow.
1. Rubbing Your Puppy's Face and Gums
Your vet will always want to check your dog's eyes, ears, and gums, so make sure that your puppy gets used to having their face rubbed. If this is just another part of cuddling, this won't seem out of the ordinary at the animal hospital. If your dog has an issue down the line such as a toothache, they will be less likely to act out in aggression at the animal hospital.
2. Petting Your Puppy While Eating
The best way to keep dogs from being aggressive while eating is to handle them while they are in their food bowls from a young age. This will be good in the long run for your dog's health in case they get into something they shouldn't and you need to pull things from them. If you let your dog off of their leash on walks or in gated dog parks, there might be wildlife or garbage that you need to be able keep your dog from in order to keep them healthy.
3. Kennel and Leash Training for Your Puppy
While it might be fun to carry your puppy today, as they grow they will need other forms of restraint. If you can get them started at an early age with leash, carrier, and kennel training, they will be better equipped for trips to the vet later on. If your dog ends up having to spend the night at the vet's office, they will already feel secure in a smaller kennel or carrier so this won't be too much of an adjustment.
In the long run, your puppy's health routine will need to include regular visits to the veterinarian and handling from you when necessary. Make sure that your grown dog won't act out if they are physically assessed or if you need to take something from them. Getting your puppy ready now for a lifetime of health-related interactions is one of the best things you can do for your dog.
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