|
As the Puppy Grows into a Dog
by Janice Kumar
The cute and cuddly puppy stays a puppy only
for a few months. The puppy will soon become a fully grown dog /bitch. The
transformation will take place in a few months and right before the pet owner's
eyes. It is great fun and a lot of pleasure to see the puppy grow into a dog.
There are behavioral changes and physical changes in the pup as it grows into
an adult dog and grows in confidence and develops a unique personality.
There is rapid growth over the first eight
months. The puppy is a little unsure and hesitant in the beginning .It is a
little shaky in the legs, fun loving, playful and mischievous in the first three
months. This is the time to build love and trust in the relationship with the
pup. This is the time to give it simple commands like No ! and Yes ! and teach
it to respond to it's name. The pup is loving, seeking love and bonding. Give it
care and attention and see it form a life long strong bonding with the owner.
 From
the fourth to the fifth month, the pup begins to lose its milk teeth. This is
the time it needs understanding and help. The pup may become touchy and
irritable because of the sore gums associated with the change in dentition. This
is the time to give it specially prepared chewable 'bones' and other toys which
will help in teething. A visit to the vet will help in case of any pain
associated with teething and is suggested for new pet owners.
At six months , the pup is a half grown dog. It
is in the process of developing its personality and its behavioral attributes.
It needs guidance and training at this time to get up to the pet owner's
expectations. A few countries and / or local government authorities may
require licensing / registration at this stage.
As the dog enters the eighth month and moves
towards its eleventh month, it is almost a full grown dog. There may still be
some traces of ungainliness but the dog is changing into a confident animal
with a strong will. Female dogs may begin to show their first bleeding at this
time. This bleeding may last for up to three weeks. This is the time, the puppy
coat is shed and there may be a slight color change appearing in the new coat.
From the eleventh to the thirteen month, the
pup/dog, will gain maximal height. However the chest muscles are still not
completely developed. The dog starts to become stubborn and extremely
headstrong. A careful owner, will ensure that the pup goes through proper
training before this period of growth to prepare the pet for major attitude
change.
After the thirteenth month, the dog can be
considered fully grown as it slowly develops its chest muscles and gets used to
its height and new found strength. Proper nutrition and training will ensure
that the dog turns out into a well muscled, well trained, loving pet.
I hope you find these tips useful. Here's
wishing you much happiness and joy with your pet.
Disclaimer: The article and
tips are for guidance only. Use them at your own risk and discretion. We take no
responsibility for any suggestion given above. We strongly urge you consult a
qualified professional vet to find a lasting cure for any problem. Please
consult a professional , before using any information on this site. No liability
of any kind is accepted by us.
|