You must keep a watchful eye when taking care of a puppy making sure he or she doesn't eat too much food or too little. Simply going by the recommended amount on the label may not be enough for a growing puppy.
Let's dive right in.
Taking Care of a Puppy through Feeding and Temperature
They may need a little extra food sometimes. But with an increase in food, you must increase their exercise or you will have an overweight puppy.
The extra weight can put your pup at risk for heart problems, respiratory, and muscular problems. While taking care of a puppy you should avoid obesity by preventing it in the first place.
Increase or Decrease Their Rations
If the pup is underfed, increase their ration for two weeks. When they start growing back to where they should be, stick with the plan until they reach an ideal weight.
If the pup is overfed, reduce the amount of food you give until they are down to an acceptable weight. Also increase their exercise routine.
It is important to note that if you are taking care of a puppy that overweight and underweight puppies have lower immune systems.
Watchful Eye when Taking Care of a Puppy
They can catch something from the dog next door or the one down the street. Keep a watchful eye on your puppy when they are trying to maintain a stable weight.
Temperature
At least two to three times a week, be sure to check your pup's temperature to make sure there is no fever brewing. A normal temperature for dogs is between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees.
If you are uncertain, please get the vet to show you how to do it. You will need to lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly or mineral oil and slide it halfway into the rectum. Leave for three minutes.
Remove and read the mercury level. If the pup is running a fever, you should see your vet immediately.
Sick when Not
DO NOT ever use an oral thermometer for a rectal temperature when taking care of a puppy. The readings could be off and make you think the dog is sick when they are really not.
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