What to do when your puppy grows up
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When I got Fiona, I was not looking for another dog. I still lived in an apartment, and I was looking to buy my first house.
I told myself I would get a dog after the big purchase, not during this stressful time in my life.
Then, my little sister sent me photos of some puppies. The rest is history.
Fiona was not an easy puppy to raise. Schmidt learned everything quickly – potty training, tricks, socializing. He made me think puppy training was a breeze.
However, Fiona was not interested in being trained at all. She wanted to live her life as a wild dog. She didn’t want rules on where to potty or when to bark. She just wanted to hop around like a bunny and act insane at all times.
But this September, my baby girl turns 3 years old. She isn’t a puppy anymore. And just like when she was a puppy I made sure she got the nutrients she needed, I need to change her food to fit her new life stage.
If you are in a similar situation, there are some things you can start doing to prepare your dog for adulthood.
CHANGE THEIR FOOD
It is so important to be feeding your dog nutritious food! There are so many dog foods out there that don’t have good quality ingredients. You want your dog food to work for your dog!
When my dogs became adults, I switched them both to food with ingredients that will help fuel them through their day.
Fiona eats Purina® ONE® True Instinct Grain-Free Formula. We are a Purina® family, and there are so many different foods to choose from! This food is dedicated to the lifelong potential of your pet. We love Purina® because it’s a brand I can trust, and they are always being innovative.
All formulas are backed by 85+ years of Purina research, and they have more than 500 scientists working on their food. Read more on what guides them at purina.com.
You can find their selection at Target! Click here for more information.
Sign your dog or cat up to take the 28-day challenge on purinaone.com and receive $3 off coupon.
MAKE DENTAL HEALTH A PRIORITY
I brush my dog’s teeth weekly, and I give them some type of treat that cleans their teeth. Dogs use their teeth for everything, and I want to do my part to ensure they stay strong and healthy.
Fiona loves the taste of her toothpaste, so it’s really easy to do.
DON’T SKIMP ON WALKS
When Schmidt got older and less hyper, I got lazy and quit taking him on as many walks. I regret that, so with Fiona, I am making sure we still get in a lot of activity every day.
Active dogs live happier lives, and she loves to be outside. Luckily, I have been really into hiking and camping over the past few years, so she gets to be active during those times!
DON’T FORGET SHOTS
Every year, I make sure my dogs have their booster shots. They also get shots for heartworm prevention twice a year. This is ensures that my dogs are protected from potential deadly medical issues.
If you know you can prevent a health problem, why wouldn’t you?
How do you change up your growing pups routine?
