As you welcome a new bundle of joy in the form of a puppy into your home, you're embarking on an adventure filled with cuddles, training sessions, and, let's not forget, establishing routines! At Big Hearted Breeders, we've learned a thing or two about Mini Golden Retrievers, and we're here to share some insights on setting up a structured schedule that fosters healthy habits and a happy pup.
Having a well-behaved dog requires establishing a consistent and organized routine. This routine will aid in developing a strong bond between you and your dog. So, let's dive into the world of puppy schedules with some helpful guidelines and recommendations.
Puppy Food Schedule: A Recipe for Nutrition and Routine
Feeding your mini golden retriever pup isn't just about filling their bowl. It's an opportunity to create a routine that fits seamlessly into your day. Whatever puppy feeding schedule you choose, make sure it is a daily schedule that you can be consistent with.
We recommend a morning feeding around 8 or 9 am, starting with 1/4 cup of pawTree food (adjusting as your puppy grows). If you are feeding your pup anything other than pawTree, you will probably need to give significantly more. This is because of how nutrient dense and high quality the pawTree food is.
Until puppy is around 12 weeks old we recommend soaking their kibble. Put the food into a bowl and then add water up to about halfway up the kibble. Do not go past the top of the kibble due to the risk of aspiration.
In the evening, around 5/5:30 pm, another 1/4 cup of pawTree goodness is on the menu. Be mindful not to offer any additional food or liquids after this time to ensure a restful night's sleep.
Wondering if you are feeding your puppy enough? Taking a look at the Body Condition Score (BCS) for Dogs can help you know if your dog is underweight or overweight. Based on this, you can decide if it is appropriate to increase or decrease the amount of food you are feeding your growing pup.
Using the BCS and an online calorie calculator
like this one can help you know how much your dog should be eating.
Training? Feeding time is a great time to train your pup. Kibble is a tasty reward that you can use during training sessions. This also ensures that your puppy is not taking in unnecessary calories or fillers often found in treats.
Once they are a bit older you can opt for pawTree's freeze-dried beef or chicken liver – a wholesome choice without added fillers.
Question to ponder: What creative ways can you incorporate kibble into your puppy's training routine?
Puppy Potty Schedule: Proactive Potty-ing with Tethering and Crating
Avoiding accidents in the house starts with a proactive potty schedule. We recommend always having your puppy be with someone, in a crate or in a small, contained area.
There are two main ways to potty train, tether training or crate training. You can also combine the two.
Tether training entails keeping your pup close using a leash attached to you. Crate training entails containing your pup in a crate during down time. When taking them out of the crate, taking them directly outside to go potty, then playing with them and returning them to their crate.
No matter the method you choose, aim to let them out every 2-3 hours, adjusting as they grow older. If accidents occur, increase potty breaks and decrease freedom. Crate and tether training can help to reinforce responsible behavior. Remember, they must earn their freedom – give them only as much as they can handle responsibly.
Question to consider: How can you use tether training to strengthen the bond between you and your pup?
Puppy Sleep Schedule: Unveiling the Secrets of Puppy Slumber
Puppies are champion sleepers, and need more sleep than most people expect them to need. Much like newborns, they follow an eat, poop, play, sleep routine. Resist the urge to wake a sleeping puppy unless necessary. Embrace their natural schedule and, if needed, wake them only for a final evening potty break.
Question to reflect on: How can you adjust your daily routine to accommodate your puppy's sleep needs?
In conclusion, bringing home a Mini Golden Retriever puppy involves more than just cuddles and playtime. It requires a thoughtful approach to scheduling.
By creating a structured routine for food, potty, and sleep, you will be setting your pup up for success. You'll also be building a foundation for a happy and healthy lifelong companionship. So, let the puppy adventures begin, and may your home be filled with wagging tails and boundless joy!
If you’re interested in bringing home a Big Hearted Breeders’ puppy, please complete the form below and we’d love to chat with you more!