Puppiesforsalepuppiesforsalelocalbreeders.com  FAQ's

What type of food do you feed, and what should I feed my puppy?

We feed our puppies Bil-Jac and Eukanuba puppy kibble. We do not recommend any changes in the diet. Changes in the diet can be tough on a puppy’s system. We feed Bil-Jac which is a softer kibble for puppies who are teething and need a softer kibble to chew. We also feed Eukanuba for teething puppies since this is a harder kibble which feels good on their gums.If you want to change your puppies kibble to another brand, wait about 6-8 months. Make a VERY slow transition. Changing the puppy’s food can cause diarrhea, which may lead to dehydration, and other issues that can arise from that. If anyone in a pet food store tries to tell you to buy a different brand it is because they make more money off of that brand. If your Veterinarian tries to get you to switch to the brand they sell it is because they to want your money..

What do I do if my puppy makes a mistake on my floor?

When bringing your puppy home you need to have a small, safe, area for your puppy to eat, sleep, and play. Having a puppy training pad is a good idea for beginning training. You have to accept that your puppy will make mistakes when you are unable to supervise. It is up to you to train your puppy. If you catch your puppy about to use the restroom on the floor, make a loud noise to redirect the puppy’s attention to you. Pick up your puppy and take him/her outside. When your puppy uses the bathroom, give a positive praise. If you catch your puppy in the act of using the bathroom, you can give a firm NO and a tap on the nose so that he/she associates the discipline with using the bathroom on the floor.

What do I do if my puppy is chewing on something other than his/her toys?

Puppies use their mouth to feel their environment. You need to teach your puppy what to and what not to chew on. When a puppy is chewing on something he/she should not be, give a FIRM NO while tapping on the nose. After this give the puppy something it IS allowed to chew on. Praise the puppy, teaching the puppy this is something ok to chew. When puppies chew or nip on hands and feet, use the same technique. Make a "OUCH" sound, than say NO with a firm voice while giving a tap on the nose. Give the dog something it is allowed to chew on and praise your puppy. You are your puppy's’ teacher, If you do not start teaching your puppy at a young age what is and is NOT acceptable, Your puppy WILL think that it is ok to do whatever he/she was doing.

How often should I feed my puppy?

When your puppy is 6-10 weeks we do not put them on a schedule. Puppies are going through growth spurts and eat 4-5 times a day. While going through this we keep food and water accessible at all times. After the puppy is 12-14 weeks, and comfortable, you may put them on a 2-3 times a day schedule.

How much food should I feed my puppy a day?

When a puppy first gets to his/her new home, it might not eat as much if any for the first 3 days while going through some changes and possibly a little stress from the new environment. Keep food and water down at all time so that you may monitor how much the puppy is eating. On small breeds the first few days we recommend using a high-calorie Dietary supplement, meal replacement. Overnight is the longest period of time in which a small breed puppy is not eating. This can cause the puppy’s sugar levels to lower, which can cause stress and may lead to hypoglycemia. When you wake up and before bed are a must in giving this high-calorie Dietary supplement. We also recommend giving some every 4 hours while the puppy is not eating regular food. Larger breeds may not need the high-calorie Dietary supplement, you can buy this supplement at 19Breeders

What and how much does my puppy drink a day?

After your puppy is weaned from it’s mother, they ONLY drink water. There is no longer a need for milk. Your puppy needs to always have water available all the times to insure he/she is properly hydrated.

What should I do with my puppy when I am not home, or unable to supervise?

Puppies and toddlers are very much alike and need to be supervised. Puppies need to be kept in a safe place when you are not home or unable to supervise. Depending on age, you want to keep your puppy in a playpen, blocked in a bathroom, laundry room, or in a crate. You want to pick anything up that the puppy is not supposed to chew. If you are using a crate, make sure the crate is properly sized for your puppy. We highly recommend the use of playpens which you can purchase at 19breeders.

How soon should I see the vet?

In general it is good to visit a vet within the first 48 to 72 hours. This is important for your peace of mind you a good healthy family pet. The vet will also go ahead and set up appointments for your next visit and vaccinations.

How soon can I get my puppy spayed/neutered?

Both male and female puppies are different in which age they reach maturity. Male puppies should be neutered between 4 and 6 months of age. Females can be spayed at 6 to 8 months of age.

When is it safe for my puppy to play with other dogs or visit public places?

Puppies should not visit pet stores, dog parks, or places of high dog traffic. Once your puppy is finished with all required vaccinations you may take your dog outside of your home and yard.

When can I start giving my puppy treats?

Treats are the same thing as changing your puppy’s diet, or feeding human food. This will cause an upset stomach and loose stool as well. Once your puppy is completely comfortable and a little older you can start introducing treats. For now, positive reinforcement is the best treat you can give your puppy.

How often should I bathe my puppy?

Puppies do not need to be bathed too often as this washes away much needed body oils. Depending on how dirty your puppy is a good brushing will do the trick. Puppies and dogs need to be washed at least once a week or every two weeks. Too much washing can cause itchy and dry skin.

How many vaccinations does my puppy need?

Puppies should receive their first vaccination at about 6-7 weeks of age, should see a vet to be examined for parasites, deworming, vaccines and physical exams every 3-4 weeks apart up to 4 months of age.

Has my puppy been de-wormed?

All puppies should be dewormed before going to new homes.

What should I do if my puppy eats poop?

There are many different products on the market. One that works very well is snoop no poop, it will stop a puppy from eating poop. You can get it at 19Breeders.

How Do I crate train my puppy?