young puppy via 123RF.com

It is not surprising that adopting a puppy at 6 weeks brings a lot of satisfaction and frustration to new pet owners. That bouncing little four legged bundle of energy requires proper care to grow healthy and strong. And, the conventional rule of thumb is that puppies should normally not be adopted until they reach 8 weeks old, but successful adoption is definitely possible at this younger age.

If you are getting ready to bring home your own little 6 week old furball cutie, then knowing what to expect and how best to live with the little guy can help make this more successful. Here are a few tips about caring for that 6 week old puppy that will set both you and him up for success.

First, it is important to realize that the puppy has to adjust to the new environment. Just like a child, she can be scared by the new environment and new people. As a result, the puppy is probably going to make a lot of noise and be very active. This is due to the new location and missing the other puppies and its mother.

Make sure that there is a special place that is prepared for the puppy in the home or apartment where they have enough space to move around freely. A small corner in a room is usually sufficient. Many new puppy owner’s might like to try the crate method and lining the floor with newspapers or pee pads. Always take the puppy outside after peeing. This will help the puppy learn that the outside is for this practice.

At about six weeks, it is time for the puppy’s booster shots. Don’t delay giving the puppy those important shots. The shots will protect the puppy’s health and allow your new family pet to go outside and start to explore their new outdoor environment. The shots also help to protect the family and other visiting dogs. Before taking the puppy home, you should ask if these shots have already been administered.

Proper nutrition is very important for a puppy at this age. At this young age, the puppy’s digestive system is very sensitive. Therefore, it is vital to use due caution when selecting foods. Always make sure that the foods are easy to chew and digest.

Select the type of canned food that is specifically manufactured for your puppies breed. For example, there are puppy foods that are specifically for small breeds, medium breeds, and the larger breeds. Ask your puppy’s vet or the pet supplier for their input on this situation. Also, remember that water is a vital and necessary part of proper nutrition. Always keep a supply of water nearby for your puppy.

By following these tips, you should be well on your way to creating a comfortable environment for your little six week old puppy to thrive.