How long is a dog a puppy? When are they adult dogs? And 9 things you need to do when they are puppies!

The puppy stage is a very important time in a dog’s development, and this period is very adorable. Generally speaking, the puppy stage is roughly one year after birth.

From puppy to adult dog

Juvenile stage (0-2 weeks of age)

・Puppies are blind for the first few weeks of life and grow up drinking their mother’s milk.

・During this period, they are completely dependent on their mothers, and their body temperature is regulated and their elimination is done under their mothers’ care.

Baby stage (2-4 weeks old)

・The puppy’s eyes open and it gradually begins to walk.

・They develop muscle strength and cooperation through walking and play.

・Pups are weaned from the mother’s milk and gradually transition to a solid diet.

Exploratory period (4-8 weeks of age)

・Puppies begin to explore their surroundings more actively.

・This is a critical period of socialization, learning social skills through play and contact with other dogs and humans.

・It is important for their growth to be influenced by the love and training they receive from their owners during this period.

Puppy period (8 weeks to 6-12 months of age)

・Puppies gradually grow, increasing in size and ability.

・Teeth change, gradual and complete transition to solid food.

・Play and training knowledge and behavior patterns are learned.

Adult dogs (after 1 year of age)

・Puppies reach maturity at approximately one year of age.

・The length of time it takes for a dog to reach adulthood varies by breed, but it generally takes roughly 1 to 1.5 years.

What you need as a puppy

I know a year is very fast for an owner, but a year from puppy to adult dog is roughly 15-16 years for a human

nutrition

・Puppies are growing and need the right nutrition to develop into healthy adult dogs.

・It is important to consider a high-quality puppy dog food. Puppy dog food contains a good balance of nutrients needed for growth.

・Meal frequency should be three to four times a day during the first few weeks and months of life, gradually decreasing to twice a day.

vaccine

・Puppies need to be vaccinated to protect them from infectious diseases.

・Vaccinations are given according to a vaccine schedule to prevent serious canine diseases such as parvovirus and distemper.

correct socialization

・Puppyhood is a critical time for socialization. They need experience to become accustomed to other dogs, people, and different environments.

・It is important to take your puppy to parks, dog runs, and other places where many dogs congregate, and to offer him exposure to other people and dogs.

Toilet training

・Puppies need to be potty trained to learn where to go to the bathroom.

・Regular potty breaks and praise will teach your puppy to eliminate in the correct place.

pet insurance

・Puppy health care requires preparation for preventable periodic illnesses and injuries.

・Pet insurance can help cover unexpected and emergency medical expenses.

filaria prevention

・Filaria is transmitted via mosquitoes and can cause serious illness in dogs.

・Filaria prophylaxis should be administered regularly from the time the dog is a puppy to prevent infection.

・Filaria prophylaxis is usually administered orally once a month or applied to the skin.

proper exercise and play

・Puppies are energetic and curious and need the right exercise and play.

・It is important to provide time for walks and play to allow your puppy to expend his energy and develop muscle strength.

・Provide exercise that is appropriate for your puppy’s fitness and growth, as prolonged, strenuous exercise can be detrimental to growth.

tooth care

・Puppies are going through a period of dental changes. It is important to provide dental care during this period.

・Take care to maintain your puppy’s oral hygiene by brushing his teeth and providing chew toys.

・Regular dental exams are also recommended.

training and socialization classes

・Participating in basic training and socialization classes from puppyhood will help them develop in a healthy way.

・Utilize positive training techniques to learn proper behavior, basic things to do, and to build better relationships with their owners.

・Training and socialization classes provide an opportunity for puppies to learn to socialize and interact with other dogs and people.