Carter Farm

Labradors

VACCINATIONS & PARASITES

• Your puppy has received their first 5-way vaccination at 6 weeks old

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  • Vaccine Administered to your Puppy: Neopar @ 5 & 7 weeks, Neovac DA2 @ 6 weeks

• They will need 2-3 additional 5-way vaccinations to complete their primary immunization
• Please discuss timing of Rabies vaccination and annual booster vaccinations with your vet
• Please avoid public areas such as dog parks, pet stores, pet adoption sites, other households with dogs that have unknown vaccination histories until your puppy if fully vaccinated. The initial vaccine given to your puppy does not protect it against the covered diseases until all rounds are completed. Exposing your puppy to other pets or places where pets frequents makes them susceptible to contracting these diseases.
• Deworming: Your puppy has received deworming medication every 2 weeks, starting at 2 weeks of age. They also have a fecal test at 6 weeks of age. Deworming your puppy ensures that your puppy doesn’t have a worm infestation, but does not guarantee that the puppy doesn’t have an occasional worm or larvae. Puppies are often messy and can pick up worms from their feces and other dog’s feces. It is important to discuss a good deworming protocol with your vet to ensure that your puppy stays healthy through their potty training phase.
• Parasites such as Coccidia and Giardia are common in dogs. Many dogs carry these parasites in their intestinal system with never having an issues, but can pass them on to other dogs. Their presence at stressful times can cause diarrhea and loss of appetite. We do everything we can to ensure that your puppy does not have these parasites.
  • Giardia are also common in wildlife. Please keep in mind that outside water sources such as dog bowls, creeks, ponds, public areas can be a perfect habitat for this parasite and for your puppy to pick it up. Always provide clean, fresh water for your puppy.

NUTRITION

• Puppies are fed Loyall Puppy food
• Your puppy has been introduced to puppy food at 3.5 weeks of age
• At 5 weeks of age they are able to eat the puppy food dry and will be only eating dry food when they leave
• Weaning begins at 4 weeks and is gradually completed by 6 weeks of age
• Feeding Amount: ¾-1 cup of food, twice per day (this will change as your puppy grows)
• They will receive a sample of their puppy food when they leave. If you can’t locate Loyall Puppy food, please transition them gradually to their new food to prevent digestive issues.
• Important When Searching for a Puppy Food:
  • Too much protein and fat can lead to rapid growth in large breed puppies, which can result in joint issues such as hip & elbow dysplasia
    • Select a Puppy Food or All Life Stages food that is 28% protein or less and 18% fat or less
  • Overfeeding your puppy can also cause your puppy to be overweight and cause rapid growth. This can also be a contributing factor to your puppy developing joint issues prematurely or in the future. If you feel your puppy is eating too fast or hungry after a meal, try dividing their food into smaller meals more frequently through the day. Do not exceed the total amount recommended for your puppy! You can also try a slow feeding bowl if your puppy is eating too fast.

BEHAVIOR AND TRAINING

• Puppies are cute and cuddly, but need consistency, structure, reinforcement, and reprimanding. They must be taught manners, respect, patience, and to learn who their leader is. While you may get lucky with a dream puppy that has a laid back attitude, please expect to spend a lot of time and effort to ensure your puppy grows into a respectable dog!
• You are the alpha/ leader of your pack. Your puppy must understand this early on or behavior issues could develop. If you are not established as the leader early on, your puppy may assume this role and develop behavior issues with your family and other pets.
• Many families have experience with puppies, but an Obedience class or Personal Trainer can be a huge benefit to training your puppy. Your vet or local pet stores should be able to recommend reputable resources.
• Crate training is a great tool in developing structure for your puppy. It can help with potty training, developing a sleep schedule, and creating a safe area for your puppy. Please keep in mind that a puppy should never be left in a crate for long/ extended periods of time. Over confining a young puppy can lead to behavior and development issues.
• It is never recommended to tie/ chain your puppy. Doing so can create bad behavior, anxiety, and socialization issues.