CHARLOTTE – If you’ve recently added a new four-legged family member to your household, you may still be in the midst of trying to figure this whole “puppy parenting” thing out. Much like being a parent to a new (human) baby, being a new puppy parent can be both overwhelming and a bit exhausting. However, the time and effort you put into care and training of your new loyal companion will be so worth it down the road.

With a little bit of research, you probably already know that the first few months of a puppy’s life are a critical time for proper training and care. The experiences that your puppy has during that time are going to affect him for the rest of his life. When it comes to caring for a fur baby, things like time, love, patience, and financial support are key. Regular veterinary wellness visits, basic comforts like beds, toys, bowls, etc., food and grooming visits are all costs to consider as a new puppy parent. 

Supervision and socialization of your puppy are some other important factors in the first few months of his life. This is the time to watch him closely, set boundaries as needed, and make a puppy area or room when someone isn’t going to be around for a while. Introducing your puppy to other dogs and people is also very beneficial from a young age.

Your vet can provide you with lots of great advice for these early months of puppy parenting, so set your fur baby- and yourself- up for success in the future by preparing and properly caring for your puppy now! 

Passionate Paws Animal Hospital is a proud member of the Union County Chamber of Commerce and the Waxhaw Business Association.