Before adopting a young puppy, consider their needs. Puppies require time, patience, and consistent training. Be prepared for early socialisation, positive reinforcement, and consistent routines.
Prepare yourself financially for vaccinations, spaying/neutering, regular veterinary care, and medical backup in terms of puppy insurance. Cheap pup insurance won’t put too much of a strain on your budget, so think about getting one.
Also, puppy-proof your home, provide proper nutrition, and invest in chew toys. Remember, puppies demand much time and attention, so ensure your lifestyle accommodates their needs before committing to bring a new puppy into your home.
Consider your personal circumstances and also know what to expect from your new puppy once you adopt it. Read this article for basic insights into common puppy behaviours.
Expected behaviours in a young puppy
Young puppies, typically between 8 weeks and 6 months old, display a range of behaviours as they explore the world and develop. Some behaviours to expect in a young puppy include –
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Exploration
Puppies are naturally curious and explore their surroundings by sniffing, mouthing, pawing, and interacting with objects. This behaviour helps them learn about their environment.
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Playfulness
Puppies engage in play to develop social and physical skills. Playful behaviours include running, pouncing, chewing, and play-biting with littermates or human family members.
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Chewing
Teething puppies often chew to relieve discomfort. So, it would be best to provide appropriate chew toys to redirect this behaviour and protect household items.
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Socialisation
Puppies are social animals and benefit from positive interactions with people, other animals, and various environments. Socialisation during this stage influences their future behaviour.
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Barking
Puppies use vocalisation to communicate. Excessive barking can result from excitement, fear, or the need for attention. Training and positive reinforcement help manage barking.
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Potty training
Young puppies may not have complete control over their bladder and bowel movements. Consistent and patient potty training is essential during this developmental stage. Bear with occasional messes, as they are still learning during this phase.
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Sleeping
Puppies sleep a significant portion of the day, often 15-20 hours. This is essential for their growth and development. Provide a comfortable and quiet sleeping area.
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Mouthing and biting
Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and this includes mouthing and gentle biting. Redirect this behaviour to appropriate toys and discourage aggressive biting.
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Learning commands
Puppies are eager to learn and can start basic obedience training. Teaching cues like ‘sit’, ‘stay’, and ‘come’ establishes a foundation for good behaviour.
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Attachment
Puppies form strong attachments to their owners during this stage. Building a positive bond through affection, training, and consistent care fosters a healthy relationship.
Understanding and addressing these behaviours helps shape a well-adjusted and well-behaved adult dog. Consistent guidance during puppyhood lays the basis for a happy and harmonious life together.
Also, note that young puppies are susceptible to risks such as infectious diseases like parvovirus and distemper. Parasites like worms and fleas can affect their wellness. Poor nutrition may lead to developmental issues, and vaccination delays increase the risk of preventable diseases.
Exposure to environmental toxins, such as certain plants or household chemicals, poses additional dangers. Regular veterinary care, timely vaccinations, and a safe environment help mitigate these health risks.
Nevertheless, it is advisable to consider being prepared with puppy insurance so that unforeseen health events are more manageable. With cheap pup insurance, it can be much easier to provide basic medical care at all times, so consider getting a policy.
