I try to go over most of this while you are here..... but here's the top questions asked by new puppy families
1. Food~ I put down approximately 1 cup 3 times a day per puppy. Some puppies eat more, some less. Check your food label, it's a general idea, allow the pup 10 or so minutes, and then put it up until next feeding. To change the puppy over to your food, mix 75% old food and 25% new food for a few days, then go to 50/50..... then 75% new food and 25% old food... any bowel upsets, stay an extra day or until stools firm back up! 2. Name~ The name given the pup while he or she was here, is a temporary name. Feel free to change it without any hesitation. Your pup really doesn't respond to the temporary name. To teach the new name... call it (happy upbeat) and when your pup looks, praise/reward! (cheerio or piece or hotdog similar size) repeat until your pup is consistently responding to their name!
3 Worm Meds. It's called Stongid T and it works on round worms. Once your pup's going outside on a regular basis he/she may come into contact with tape worms, this med does not work on tape worms (looks like rice grains on the fur around the puppy's bum). The meds are recommended every 2 weeks and continue to work for that period of time (don't double dose). Seeing worms in the puppy poop is a sign the meds are working. You're puppy may experience loose stools during this time.
4. Bitter Apple Spray If you find your puppy is jumping/chewing/mouthing excessively, I recommend this product. Spray your shoes/sofa/table legs/children's pant legs or whatever is the problem area. Once you've bought the product, prime the pump and squirt 1-2 sprays inside your puppies mouth. It's the most effective product I've found.
5. Shavings I recommend putting some in an open container near the door you will be using to take your pup outside to pee/poop. Place the rest where you will be putting the pup down to do his/her business. This help bridge the communication gap. They are used to peeing or pooping on this surface. There is no need to replenish, a new routine will establish itself (you picking up the pup and placing him/her down to go potty).
6. Micro chip Your pup is micro chipped, you will need to call the 1-866 number on the yellow tag to complete registration.
7. Diarrhea The first of many conversations you will have regarding you're puppies stools. Some runny poop is normal. Stress, worm meds, change of food or water all contribute. Plain pumpkin (not pie pumpkin with the spices; about a teaspoon full each meal) will usually firm it back up. For your information, pumpkin will also help if your dog should ever become constipated! A great thing to have portioned and in the freezer!