What happened to Spring weather? Summer of 2018 came early here in Oklahoma. A Spring turkey hunt was cut short when the morning alarm was met with snow and 20 degree temperatures. I normally don’t use my duck hunting gear until the cold northerns blow in, but this spring, it came in handy. No turkeys gobbled my direction this year. The cold temps have now gone straight to the humidity and high temps that we usually don’t see until July and August. The dog days of Summer are here. Be sure to keep fresh water and shade for your dog. If they have a tendency to play in the water bowl, like my labs do, offer an additional source of water. Labradors love kiddie pools. Another good option is a plastic barrel. Cut it in half, dogs are less likely to chew it up and they love to lay in the cool water. Avoid the dazed and confused puppy that has overheated - keep an eye on that water.
Shelter is a broad term as far as a puppy is concerned. Where you house your dog is a personal preference- inside dog, outside dog, or a combination. A new puppy needs protection from the weather as well as a place of security, this is his shelter. It is important for your new puppy to feel secure in their area. If keeping the puppy outside, this starts with the dog house and extends to the pen, fence, or barrier. If the puppy is kept in the house, it will start with the crate and extend to the parts of the house where the puppy is allowed. The best part of the 'shelter' is the puppy will take ownership of these areas and will later become a protector of his area and the companions that care for him. When taking your dog with you on errands or trips, his shelter will move and he will become a protector of his companions. Proper shelter is important for a new puppy in establishing trust with a new owner.
Water is important basic need for your new puppy. Fresh water is essential for proper growth and digestion in all dogs and especially the case for a puppy. Dogs need about 10 ounces of water for every 10 pounds of body weight. It is best to keep 2 water dishes available, especially for a young dog. Labradors love to play in the water and will have a tendency to dump over an unsecure dish. Summer heat can have drastic consequences on a dog with no water. I add a small kiddie pool or a larger container for the dogs to play in during the summer months. Never underestimate the power of clean water for your dog ---- and you.
Feeding the hungry puppy is one of the three basic needs for your new companion (food, water, shelter). It is necessary to feed a quality puppy food as long as he is still growing. This will usually continue through the first year. There are many good quality foods available on the market. Find a food that is high in protein, fat, and nutritionally complete. We advise feeding your puppy 2-3 times a day with as much as he will clean up in a 20 minute time period. This is usually about 1 to 2 cups per feeding. Finding the right puppy food can be a formidable task but one that is important for proper growth and health of a new puppy.
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AuthorDoug Abbott Archives
May 2018
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