By a puppy’s second month, his senses have fully developed and the curiosity displayed so freely in his first few weeks is now tempered with a bit of caution. Minimize potentially startling experiences during this period, and keep travel to a limit outside your pup’s first vet visit where he’ll receive his first round of vaccines. You’ll also want to avoid taking your new pet to the dog park until he’s had his first shots lest he catch something from his new four-legged friends.
During your pet’s first visit to the vet, do your best to make it a positive experience as it will set the tone for his association with the veterinarian for the rest of his days. In your puppy’s second month you’ll also begin your adventures with housetraining and introduce your dog to his own personal safe haven: his crate.
Here’s what you should be thinking about with a 2-month-old puppy:
» Getting Your Puppy Used to a Crate
When you give your puppy a crate, you are giving him a place that is safe and secure. Not only does crating him give you peace-of-mind, it mimics the den-like atmosphere that he naturally seeks out. It also provides an area he is unlikely to soil and thus helps in house training. But how do you get your puppy to accept and maybe even like a crate? Learn how with these simple steps »
» Your Puppy’s First Round of Vaccines
One the most imperative and confusing responsibilities in caring for your puppy is making sure he gets the right vaccines at the right time. There is controversy nowadays about whether or not adult dogs need every vaccine every year (except for Rabies, which is required). But with puppies, getting their vaccines is crucial. View our guide to a puppy’s first round of vaccines »
» Housetraining Your Puppy in (Almost) a Week
Yes, house training really can be done in approximately a week. The keys to training your pup quickly are: time, tenacity, patience and consistency. You may have to take a little time off work up front but it will pay off later. Here’s how to get started »
» Review Your Puppy’s Diet for Optimal Health
Up until now you’ve probably been following your breeder or rescue agency’s recommendations for your puppy’s food. Now is a good time to review his nutrition and the amount he is eating. But how do you determine the best food and quantities for your pup? Here’s a quick rundown »
Thumbnail: Photography via Pixabay.
