ABCs of a 12-week-old puppy

Food
Puppies should still be receiving three meals per day, until about 16 weeks of age. Large breed puppies should be eating large breed puppy or adult food.

Heartworm & Flea Prevention
Your puppy should be on life-long monthly prevention. Please let us know if you would like to discuss any of the preventatives we carry and when you need a refill.

Exposure
Your pup should stay away from high-risk areas (parks, beaches, trails, etc.) until after their 16 week vaccine. At this stage, after their second (12 week) vaccine, we highly recommend starting a socialization class. We offer classes here and have referrals.

Potty Training
If you are using a crate/confinement, your puppy should be able to go through the night without an accident. During the day, they may be able to hold it for up to 3 hours. Remember to use praise, not punishment, during the elimination training process. All accidents should be cleaned using an enzymatic cleaner.

Safe Toys
Kongs, Nylabones and food dispensing toys are safe to use at this age. Keep your pup busy by feeding them 1 meal/day from a food toy.

Stool Sample
All puppies need a negative stool sample before starting classes.

Handling
Continue handling your pup all over: paws, ears, muzzle, and nails. If they do not like an area handled, concentrate on that area. Give treats and go slowly. And do not attempt handling exercises when they have the “puppy crazies”. This is a normal part of a puppy’s day, and they need an outlet for all that energy!

Corrections
The best reaction is to immediately stop interacting with your pup if he doing something undesirable. Another option is to interrupt and redirect. Interrupt the behavior with a short, deep toned noise (“ah-ah”). When they stop the behavior, redirect them by giving them a toy or directing their attention to something else. Reward them for doing the right thing.

Fearful Responses
As your pup starts to socialize with other people and dogs make sure to help build their confidence. If they seem afraid of something (vacuum, stroller, people) trying pairing the “scary” thing with something positive, like a high value treat. Do not force an interaction. If your pup seems fearful in multiple situations, it is crucial to work with a qualified trainer, using positive reinforcement. Large breed puppies should not go for long runs or jump out of trucks/SUV’s until their rapid growth phase is over — at about 1 year of age.