PUPPY
CARE

We understand that bringing a new puppy into your home is both an exciting and challenging experience. As a team of Fear Free Certified professionals, we are here to support you every step of the way, offering compassionate, professional care right in the comfort of your home.

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Here are some commonly asked questions about puppy care. 

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How Can I Housebreak My Puppy?

Housebreaking a puppy is a task that demands patience and understanding. It's important to remember that a puppy's bladder control develops with age. Consistency in taking your puppy outside and positive reinforcement when they do their business in the appropriate spot are key. At Vet At Your Door, we can offer tailored advice and support for housebreaking your puppy in a way that minimizes stress and promotes quick learning.

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What Can I Expect at My Puppy’s First Veterinary Exam?

A puppy's first vet visit is crucial for setting a foundation for good health. This visit usually includes a full physical examination, discussions about diet and care, and the administration of necessary vaccinations. Our home visit service ensures your puppy's first medical experience is calm and fear-free, making future vet visits less stressful.

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When Can I Take My Puppy to the Dog Park?

Proper socialization is essential for your puppy's development. However, it's important to wait until they have had their necessary vaccinations before exposing them to public places like dog parks. We provide guidance on safely socializing your puppy and can advise when it's safe to start bringing them to parks and other social settings.

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When Should I Start Training My Puppy?

Starting training early is crucial for a well-behaved adult dog. Basic commands, potty training, and social behavior are important areas to focus on. Our team can assist you with effective, fear-free training methods that strengthen the bond between you and your puppy.

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Which Vaccinations Does My Puppy Need?

Essential vaccinations for puppies include rabies, distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus. We also offer the lyme, leptospirosis, and bordetella vaccines.  At Vet At Your Door, we tailor a vaccination schedule suited to your puppy's specific needs.

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How Can I Get My Puppy to Stop Chewing on Everything?

Puppies explore the world through their mouths, so chewing is a natural behavior. Teaching them what is appropriate to chew on is important. We can suggest safe chew toys and strategies to discourage them from chewing on inappropriate items, keeping both your puppy and your belongings safe.

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When Should I Spay or Neuter My Puppy?

Deciding when to spay or neuter your puppy is an important health consideration. Recent studies have shown that waiting a bit longer, to about a year old, is better for males, unless they are displaying any aggressive behavior or wandering in search of a lady friend. For females, it gets a bit more complicated, as spaying earlier (around 6 months) protects against mammary cancers, but letting them go through a heat can potentially be protective in other ways.  We provide personalized advice based on your puppy’s breed, health, and lifestyle, helping you make an informed decision on the best timing for this procedure.

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Does My Puppy Really Need to Be Groomed?

Regular grooming, including brushing and nail trims, is essential. Introducing grooming early helps your puppy get comfortable with the process. We can provide gentle grooming tips and services.

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How Big Will My Puppy Get?

The adult size of your puppy depends on their breed. We can help estimate their adult size during home visits and ensure their growth is on the right track.

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How Much Does My Puppy Need to Eat?

The amount and type of food depend on your puppy's age, breed, and activity level. We can offer nutrition advice and create a feeding plan tailored to your puppy’s needs.

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Caring for a new puppy is a significant commitment, but with the right knowledge and support, it's also incredibly rewarding. At Vet At Your Door, we're here to assist you with all aspects of puppy care. For more personalized advice or to schedule a home visit, call us at (207) 536-8387, email info@vetatyourdoor.com, or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping your puppy grow into a healthy, happy adult dog in the comfort and safety of your home.