Taking care of a Lab Puppy requires a portion of your time and attention. Like humans, lab puppies have needs that should be addressed. You should not only be financially ready but emotionally prepared as well. In fact, all of your housemates – whether they approve of your lab puppy or not, should possess enough emotional readiness to handle a lab puppy.
Here are some tips on how to take care of a lab puppy:
- Be extra patient. A lab puppy is very energetic and will call your attention all the time. In his first few days, he will most likely cause accidents. This is normal. Housebreaking accidents are normal until your lab puppy is 6 months old. Keep in mind not to scold your pet but train him properly instead. Train your puppy to relieve on a regular spot. Don’t forget to praise him heartily every time he does. When accidents happen inside the home, bring him outside.
- Feed your lab puppy a high quality Kibble. This is made particularly for large breed puppies. A diet that contains 25 percent less protein will help in preventing joint issues in Labradors. Don’t forget to follow the instructions on your pet food, but try to feed him 2 or 3 times a day. Make sure that he always gets fresh, clean water.
- Avail appropriate vaccines. Don’t forget to go to vet regularly. Routine appointments are essential to make sure that your lab puppy grows up healthy. Ask the vet to recommend a credible parasite treatment, flea treatment and heartworm preventative.
- Exercise with your puppy regularly. Unlike other kinds of dogs, lab puppies must be exercised and walked regularly. According to Norma Bennett Wolf of the Dog Owner’s Guide, “Daily walks, romps in a fenced yard, and games of fetch keep his mind and body in shape. Unless these needs are satisfied, the Lab may become a wanderer, a digger or a chewer.”
- Provide a variety of chew toys. Chewing things is normal for a lab puppy. To prevent him from chewing household things such as shoes and toys, give him his own chew toys. Also, don’t forget to keep the items you don’t want to be chewed away from his reach.
- Discipline your puppy. When disciplining your puppy, you don’t have to shout or scold him. If he does a negative behavior, just firmly say, “No” or “Stop”. If he does a positive behavior, don’t forget to praise him heartily. Lab puppies have incredibly sensitive ears. Shouting and yelling will just scare them.
Here are some tips on how to take care of a lab puppy. Preparing for the pet physically, emotionally and financially may require extra effort. The rewards are undoubtedly worth it. In fact, most people who hate having a lab puppy pet tend to fall in love with the puppy after some time. Give you and your new pet time to adjust with each other. Don’t be too hard or too strict and just enjoy.