Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn

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Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
Huge
                                                    Huge
                                                    savings
                                                  savings
                                                     inside!
                                                   inside!

Puppy Care Guide
Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve.

Puppy Care Guide
Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve.
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
All the care your puppy
 needs under one roof.

Greencross Vets is part of our                Petbarn Insurance provides
Petbarn family and together we are            comprehensive protection for your
here to provide the best care for             cat or dog, and is distributed by
your puppy. Your local team of vets           Australia’s largest pet network.
and nurses are passionate about               Our plans cover up to 80% of
                                              the cost of eligible vet bills. Ask
pets and will ensure that you and
                                              our team members for more
your pet always receive the highest
                                              information.
standard of veterinary care.

Petbarn Puppy School is a fun and             Petbarn Foundation was born in
interactive dog training course that          2012 with the purpose of providing
will teach your puppy basic manners           support for rescue organisations
along with vital socialisation and            and pet related charities that
development skills.                           dedicate their time and effort
                                              into caring for animals in need.

        Want more advice on puppy care?

                           just ask

                       Shop your way
 In-Store            Online            Click & Collect             Repeat Delivery

                       For more info, visit petbarn.com.au
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
Contents.                                                                     The ultimate gu
                                                                                              ide to
                                                                                            new puppy.
                                                                            caring for your

                                                                                             46
                                                                                             Travelling
                                                                                             46 Travelling in
                                                                                                 the car
                                                                                             47 Puppies on
                                                                                                 holidays

                                                                                             48
02                                 20                               36
                                                                                             Caring
                                                                                             48 Technology
First Steps                        Feeding                          Training                     and your
                                                                                                 puppy
02 The joy of a new               20 What should I                36 Toilet training
                                                                                             49 Exercising
    puppy                              feed my puppy                37 Why puppy                your puppy
04 Before getting a                22 Benefits of super                school is worth it
    puppy                              premium food                 38 Stepping out
06 The power of                   24 What are the                     together
    adoption                           food options for             40 Curb those little
                                                                                               51
08 Top breeds                         my puppy?                        habits
10 Puppy development              26 Healthy treats                                        Vouchers

                                                                     42
                                   27 Toxic for puppies

12                                 28                                Grooming                 53
Settling in                                                          42 Benefits of
                                   Health                                bath time
12 How to puppy proof                                                                        My puppy’s
     your place                                                      44 6 tips for
                                   28 Puppy health                                           record book
13 W elcome to the                    checks                            grooming at
     family                                                              home
                                   30 Vaccinations
14 Puppy checklist                                                  45 Professional
                                   31 Healthy Pets Plus
                                                                         grooming
15 Puppy starter kit              32Puppy teething
16 Sleeping through                33 Desexing your
     the night                          puppy
17 Which bed is right             34 Parasite
18 Puppy must-dos                       prevention

A selection of the images featured have been sourced from Getty Images and Shutterstock.
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
2   petbarn.com.au
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
First Steps

The joy
of a new
puppy.
At Petbarn, we understand that
you have an unspoken promise
to care for your new puppy. We’re
here to help you keep it with this
guide to all things puppy-related.

As a new pet parent, you want to
make sure your puppy starts off
on the right paw so they can grow
into a happy and healthy adult.

In the following pages you’ll find
everything you need to look after
your new family member. From
diet and exercise, to puppy school
and vaccinations, these essentials
will help you make the best
decisions on your puppy’s well-
being to shape them into a strong
and confident dog.

Be sure to use our great offers on
page 51 to provide your puppy
with the essentials and more.

Have any other puppy care
questions?

      just ask

                                     3
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
Before getting
                         a puppy.
                   Finding the right puppy for you is a big step! Make sure
                   you’ve thought about these questions when choosing
                                    your new best friend.

Where do you live?                  Are they right for you?            Will they be alone a lot?
And where will your dog live?       It’s not just size that you need   Some breeds cope better with
You need to consider the breed      to consider. Make sure you         being alone than others. If you
and the size your new puppy         research the breed and energy      are at work all day, choose
will reach once they’re fully       levels first.                      a breed that doesn’t require
grown to make sure there’s                                             constant companionship.
                                    Temperament: Dogs bred for
enough space in your home                                              Separation anxiety can be
                                    guard-dog duties may be more
for them. Is your backyard                                             a challenge, so you’ll need
                                    protective, while dogs bred as
secure so your puppy can                                               to take this into account.
                                    companion animals will be
run and play safely? Are your
                                    great for lots of cuddles!         Do you have the budget?
fences big enough to hold your
curious new pet? If you rent,       Exercise: How much exercise        While the cost of a puppy is a
make sure your landlord is okay     and activity will your puppy       one-off expense, you need to
with you having a dog.              need? Be careful not to over or    be sure you’re financially stable
                                    under-exercise your dog.           enough to maintain their care.
Does their size suit you?                                              Grooming, vet care, health
                                    Grooming: Do you prefer
Contrary to popular belief, big                                        treatments and dog food are
                                    a low-moult coat? Are you
dogs aren’t necessarily the                                            ongoing expenses. You should
                                    prepared to clip and brush
most temperamental, and                                                also have a back-up plan just
                                    your pet regularly?
can be more tolerant and                                               in case your beloved friend has
gentle. Very small dogs require     Indoor/Outdoor: Where will your    an accident – pet insurance or
delicate handling, so young         puppy spend the majority of        savings. Check out Petbarn
children might not be a great       their time, and does that suit     Insurance at petbarn.com.au/
match for your puppy.               their breed?                       insurance for more information
                                                                       and to receive a quote on a
                                                                       policy for your puppy.

                                                                       Where is your puppy
                                                                       coming from?
    Your local Greencross Vets team can talk through any               Whether you choose to adopt
    questions or concerns you might have, as well as advise you        a rescue puppy, or find your
    on what you need to ensure your puppy stays in top health          friend via a breeder, make sure
    once you’ve brought them home.                                     the background of the puppy
    Visit greencrossvets.com.au for more info.                         provider checks out.

4     petbarn.com.au
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
First Steps

Have you considered adoption?
At Petbarn, we believe that all pets deserve the chance to have a happy and healthy life with
a loving family. That’s why we don’t sell dogs and cats, but partner with animal shelters to
find forever homes for pets.

  Adopted dogs have been                         By adopting, you’re saving a life.
  microchipped and had health checks.
                                                 Dogs in adoption centres are just looking
  Dogs up for adoption often have                for lots of love.
  some level of training.
                                                 If you’re after a puppy, many shelters and
  They’re socially adapted and family            rescue organisations can still help you.
  friendly.
                                                  ike all pets, they bring so much joy to your
                                                 L
  Dogs that are up for adoption are              life and can improve your health.
  usually already desexed.

Ready to adopt?
Browse SavourLife’s website of rescue dogs across Australia looking for their forever homes
at petbarn.com.au/savourlife-adopt-a-dog

                                                                                                  5
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
The power
of adoption.
How one person’s passion for helping animals
changed the life of 5,500 dogs (and counting).
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
What would you do if
you won the lottery?
For Michael McTeigue, founder
of SavourLife, he’d use it all to
help save rescue dogs. This
realisation put the wheels
in motion for Michael to quit
his corporate job and start
SavourLife – an Aussie dog
food company that donates
50% of its profits to pet rescue
organisations. “I’ve always
had a soft spot for dogs, and
now rescue dogs in particular,”
says Michael. “My best mate
Buddy, a Labrador, who passed
away recently at 15, was the
inspiration for SavourLife. I
think if one dog that we help
                                        or territory and supported             them.” Michael and his small
save brings a millionth of the
                                        the rehoming of over 5,500             team, work hard to grow
happiness to someone, that he
                                        dogs!” he says. This includes          SavourLife more and more.
brought to our lives then that
                                        his two “Chief Tasting Officers”       “When I make a decision for
would be an awesome thing.”
                                        Missy the ‘Tripawd’ and Max            our business, I always ask
The pairing of a fantastic cause        the Labrador. “Missy was               ‘Will this help us save more
with a natural, Australian-made         abandoned at four weeks old            dogs?’ – it’s a really simple
product has allowed Michael             with a crushed leg and Max was         guiding principle.” And the
to contribute so much to pets           abandoned as a six-month-old           need to support adoption
in need. “We’ve now reached             puppy – he’s an example of the         is great. “There are over
over $1 million in donations            myths around rescue dogs. If           200,000 dogs abandoned in
and shared this with over 220           you want a puppy or particular         Australia every year and we
rescue groups in every state            breed, believe me you can find         are determined to fix that.”

   Find SavourLife dog food and treats at Petbarn

         SavourLife                   SavourLife                SavourLife                  SavourLife
       Australian Milky             Grain Free Lamb        Ancient Grains Gluten      Australian Chicken Fillet
       Training Treats                Puppy Food             Free Puppy Food                Dog Treats

                                                           Find your new best friend through SavourLife Adopt
                                                           A Dog. Visit petbarn.com.au/savourlife-adopt-a-dog
Puppy Care Guide - Puppy Care Guide - Huge savings inside! inside! Everything you need to give your puppy the care they deserve - Petbarn
Top breeds.
                When you’re looking for your new best friend, check out
                       some of Australia’s best-loved breeds.

     Staffordshire Bull Terrier

    An all-or-nothing kind of dog, Staffies give their all when it comes to
    love, play or work. Don’t get misled by their muscular features though,
    as they are very people-friendly and happy, even with strangers. As
    far as children go, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s reputation is second
    to none. Other dogs love them too, making them one of the best dog
    breeds in Australia for families with more than one pet.

     Golden Retriever

    Not only are they one of the most popular dog breeds in Australia,
    Golden Retrievers are beloved around the world for their gentle
    and affectionate demeanour. Easy to train and very sociable
    towards people and other pets, this breed is a great option for first
    time dog owners or as a family pet. Golden Retrievers require a
    moderate amount of exercise and love to play fetch and to swim.
    As one of the most intelligent breeds, Golden Retrievers respond
    well to positive training and will soon be following all your cues!

     Labrador Retriever

    An all-round ray of sunshine and with a reputation for being an
    excellent family pet, no wonder the Labrador Retriever is one of the
    most popular dog breeds in Australia! Good-natured, friendly and
    affectionate, the Labrador is a medium to large-sized breed and is
    patient with children and trusting with strangers too. They are very
    loyal and love being around the family. These friendly fellows love to
    chew and often follow their nose, taking off at any smell.

8   petbarn.com.au
First Steps

     Border Collie

   A Border Collie is a very active dog and is sure to keep you on your
   toes. Bred for herding sheep, they are a highly intelligent breed, known
   for their tenacity and obedience. A happy Border Collie requires
   regular interaction, play and training. On the plus side, they will be
   high-fiving you in no time at all – when they’re not running rings
   around you with energy to burn. They thrive on regular exercise; so
   daily walks and games of fetch will keep them stimulated. This breed
   is most suitable for people who have plenty of time to spend with their
   new furry family member.

     Mixed breeds

   Don’t forget about the wide world of wonderful mixed-breed dogs!
   Often you’ll be lucky enough to enjoy some of the best character traits
   of two or three different breeds. There are so many friendly pups in
   adoption centres just waiting for forever homes. The centre will have
   worked out the dog’s temperament and energy levels to help them
   find a family with a lifestyle that suits. You can learn all about your
   prospective pet before you make the big commitment. Plus, when you
   adopt a dog, you’ll bring home a very grateful puppy.

Dog Breed Selector.
Find your new best friend.
Are you dreaming about bringing a puppy into your home, but can’t
decide which breed is right for you? Petbarn’s Dog Breed Selector
matches your needs with a breed that’s perfect for your lifestyle.

Visit petbarn.com.au/petspot/dog-breed-selector
Puppy development.
          As your puppy grows to become a well-rounded dog, these are the
                    milestones that will make you a proud parent.

      Newborn
     Pups at this stage rely solely on their mother
     until they’re three or four weeks old.

     2 to 7 weeks.
     Their eyes and ears open and they start to
     walk and bark. They will start developing
                                                                       SoPhresh
     their milk teeth. At five to seven weeks,
                                                                Leak Guard Training Pads
     their brain reaches physical maturity.
                                                                   Nexgard Spectra
     At 6 weeks pups start to eat firm foods                   Chewables for Dogs 2-3.5kg

     and begin to feed three times daily.
     They’ll need:
        Puppy-specific food enriched with DHA
        for brain development and vision, as
        well as premium ingredients to help
        them grow strong.                              8 to 10 weeks

                                                      Puppies arrive at their new
                                                      home! At this stage, they’ll start
                                                      their toilet training, lead training
                                                      and you’ll need to know where
                                                      they’re at with their vaccinations
                                                      and parasite prevention.
                                                      They’ll need:
                                                         Puppy pads.

                                                         Collar, lead and ID tags.

                                                         Training crate.
                        Hill’s Science Diet
                      Small Bites Puppy Food             Toys and a bed.

                                                         Prevention from parasites such
                                                         as fleas, ticks and worms.

10   petbarn.com.au
First Steps
 2 to 3 months

Once your puppy has completed their
vaccinations at around 14-16 weeks,
they’ll be ready to step out into the
world and their permanent teeth will
begin to appear.
They’ll need:

   Clean-up bags for waste.

   Odour neutraliser (for any               12 to 18 months.
   little accidents).                       They’re no longer a puppy! As they’re
                                            now classified as adults, they need
                                            to switch to adult dog food.

                                            They’ll need:
                                               Adult dog food.

                                               New harness/collar and bed,
                                               based on their growth.

                                               Dental care essentials.

                Sophresh
        Eco Bags 120pk with Handle

                                                            You can book your vet
                                                            appointments online!
4 to 5 months                                               Visit greencrossvets.
Their baby teeth start to fall out at                       com.au/bookonline
around 5 months and the permanent
teeth start to grow. They will be more
responsive to training.

It’s still ok to feed 3-4 small meals per    6 to 12 months
day and this can slowly decrease to
twice daily.                                Depending on the breed, some
They’ll need:                               puppies will start to slow their bone
                                            growth. Smaller breeds will reach
   Treats for training.                     sexual maturity; this is an ideal time
                                            to have a conversation with your
   Grooming essentials.
                                            Greencross Vets to confirm when is
   Teething and chew toys.                  the most appropriate time to book
                                            your puppy in for desexing.
                                            They’ll need:
                          Kong
                      Puppy Toy                Activity-based toys for fun.

                                               A trip to the vet.

                                                                                     11
How to puppy
proof your place.
Consider your home through the eyes of a curious puppy and
 make adjustments so it’s a safe and secure environment.

                                          The safety checks
                                          The kitchen contains drawers
                                          and cabinets with interesting
                                          smells and tastes. It’s likely that
                                          your puppy will want to explore
                                          everything, so secure your
                                          shelves with childproof latches to
                                          keep your puppy out of your food
                                          and cleaning products.

                                          The bathroom has many hazards
                                          for a curious puppy including
                                          razors, cotton buds and soap. Be
                                          sure you keep the toilet lid down
                                          too as shallow pools of water can
                                          pose a drowning risk.

                                          The bedroom will certainly
                                          interest your new puppy as they
                                          get to know your scent. Shoes,
                                          clothing, hair ties, toys and other
                                          small chewable items should be
                                          secured for safety.

                                          The living area has electronic
                                          gadgets and loose cords that
                                          your puppy might chew. Don’t
                                          leave handbags, phones,
                                          remotes, kids’ toys and
                                          magazines (or really anything of
                                          value) lying around, as there’s a
                                          risk of them being chewed and
                                          swallowed.

                                          The backyard has obvious
                                          dangers, including chemicals,
                                          like paint and cleaners. Some
                                          plants can be toxic to pets, too.
                                          You should also check that your
                                          puppy can’t escape the yard
                                          through gaps in the fence.

                                          Remember: dogs can dig!
Settling in

Welcome to                                                               Care tip
                                                                             #147
the family.
                                                                          Put some puppy pads down
                                                                          before introductions are
                                                                          made as your puppy may
                                                                          get excited and have a few
                                                                          accidents!
Arriving at their new home can be overwhelming
for your new puppy. Here are some things to keep in
mind to help your new pet feel like one of the family.

                                     a puppy to children, try to
Meeting the family                   keep the kids calm and let
Introduce your new puppy to          your puppy approach the kids,
your family and other pets slowly    not the other way around.          Puppies and other pets
and gently. Take notice of how       Introduce babies in a gentle,      If introducing your puppy to an
your puppy is feeling as they will   positive manner, holding them      existing pet, do the first meet
communicate any discomfort.          safely out of reach. Arrange a     and greet on neutral ground. A
Here are some tips for ensuring      ‘safe zone’ for your pup – such    local park is a good idea here.
they’ll be best buds in no time.     as a cushioned crate or a          This will prevent resident pets
                                     kennel – where they can retreat    from feeling threatened. Ensure
Kids and puppies                     to if they feel threatened or      your existing pet and your
Kids and puppies are a great         overwhelmed. Remember that         puppy are up to date on health
match, provided they start out       you should never leave a puppy     checks and vaccinations before
on the right foot. If introducing    or dog alone with a young child.   introducing them.
                                                                                                        13
Puppy checklist
           Head to Petbarn to prepare for the arrival of your little one.

Getting prepped                             Feeding
 Collar, ID tag and lead.                     Food and water bowls.
 Shampoo and conditioner.                     Super premium puppy food:
                                              If your puppy isn’t already eating super
 Brushes, combs and nail                      premium food, introduce it to them slowly to
 clippers.                                    avoid an upset tummy.
 Flea, tick and worming                       Treats:
 treatments.                                  To reward good behaviour and for training.

 Toothbrush and toothpaste

                                            Exercising
Coming home                                   Waste control bags.
 A comfortable bed.                           Bag holder.
 Car harness or booster seat
 for car travel.
 Kennel, crate and cover.                   Playing
 Comfort toys.                                Chew toys:
                                              To help with teething.

                                              Play toys:
Toilet training                               A range of options, like plush and fetch toys, to
                                              stop boredom.
 Odour/stain neutraliser:
 For cleaning up those little accidents.      Lots of cuddles:
                                              To welcome your puppy.
 Puppy pads:
 For tidier toilet training.
                                            Greencross Vets
                                              Health check:

Care tip
                                              For vaccinations and professional healthcare
                                              advice , and to check that your puppy’s

    #131
                                              microchip details are correct.
                                              Redeem your free puppy health check voucher
A puppy gate is great for blocking            on page 51.
your puppy’s access to areas they             Visit greencrossvets.com.au to find your local
shouldn’t explore.                            vet team.
Settling in

                               Starter kit.
    Petbarn has everything you need to ensure your new furry family member
    is settled and happy. Flip to page 51 for vouchers to use on these products!

                                                                                                       EEen    osSS
                                                                                                          NCcrRO  s
                                                                                                    GR
                                                                                                    Gre
                                                                                                                ed
                                                                                                     Vets approv

                       You & Me
                    Small Dog Carrier                                     Bond & Co
                                                                         Puppy Collars
                                                   Sophresh
                                               Eco Training Pads

                                                                                              Hill’s Science Diet
                                                                                         Healthy Development Puppy
   Nature’s Miracle
                                                                                                      Food
Stain & Odour Remover

                                                     You & Me
                                             Urban Menswear Rectangle
                                                    Dog Basket

                                                                                                   Aroma
                                                                                         Fleece Blanket & Teddy Set

              Nexgard
       Flea & Tick Treatment

                                                                    Well & Good
                                                                    Drying Towel

                                              Well & Good
                                        Tearless Puppy Shampoo

         Sophresh
                                                                        You & Me                    SavourLife
    Eco Bags 120pk with
                                                                        Dog Bowl               Milky Training Treats
          Handle
                                                                                                                       15
Sleeping through the night.
         The first night at home with you might be the first time your puppy
            is away from their mother. Here’s how to help them settle in.

Create a cosy space for your       Separation anxiety is not           It may take a couple of nights
puppy to sleep in for example,     uncommon and if your puppy          at home for your puppy to
follow the steps on page 17 to     whines or tries to leave their      settle in, but with these handy
set up your puppy’s crate.         bed, simply correct them in a       tips you’ll be catching those
                                   firm but gentle manner. Try to      zzz’s together in no time.
Tire your puppy out with a
                                   resist putting your puppy in your
variety of chase toys and
                                   bed as this will be a hard habit
mentally stimulating toys
                                   to break as they grow older and
throughout the day so that
                                   can be unsafe for them. Instead,
when night comes, they’re ready
                                   you can place their bedding
to head straight to bed.
                                   close to yours until they settle.
Wind down before bedtime
                                   Provide a snuggly toy for your
and teach your puppy to do                                                          Aroma
                                   puppy to cuddle with while they          Fleece Blanket Dog Toy
their business before bed so
                                   adjust to being away from their
they will stay asleep for longer.
                                   mother and other siblings. Use
Remember, if your puppy is
                                   an object that has the familiar
sleeping in a crate, they will not
                                   scent of their mother and
be able to hold their bladder
                                   littermates and include an item
overnight and so they will have
                                   with your scent on it so they
to be let out in a few hours.                                                     Animates
                                   learn to feel safe with you.               Elephant Dog Toy

16   petbarn.com.au
Settling in

Which bed is right?
Should you go for a bed, kennel or crate?
Find the perfect sleep zone for your puppy                   Crate training 101
with these pointers.
                                                            Getting your puppy
Soft bedding is a must for all puppies, even if you’ve      to use their crate is a
decided that they’ll sleep in a kennel or crate. Your
                                                            gradual process.
puppy needs a cushioned, cosy bed, and larger breeds
require extra padding. Your puppy’s bed will be one of
the key elements that help them feel comfy in their           Set up the crate so it’s cosy
home, so choose bedding they can grow into.                   and inviting. Put a crate mat on
                                                              the base and add a soft bed.
Kennel                                                        Leave the crate door open and
Kennels are perfect for puppies that will live as outside     tempt your puppy in with a
dogs or share the house with kids and other pets. When        treat or toy.
you select a kennel, consider the size your puppy will
grow. The kennel needs to be big enough for them              Place the treat or toy in the
to turn around and lie down in comfortably. However,          back of the crate so they have
kennels that are too large will mean your puppy could         to go completely inside to
get cold. Keep the kennel raised off the ground and           retrieve it.
make sure it’s not too far from your house, so your           When your puppy first ventures
puppy doesn’t feel isolated. Add in some cushioned            into their crate stay close and
bedding and your puppy will love their cosy refuge.           reassure them that all is well.
Crate                                                          radually close the door but
                                                              G
A crate offers your puppy their own safe haven. Crates        stay with them and encourage
also limit destructive behaviour and are helpful for          their good behaviour.
creating a routine for toilet training, plus, they can         eep the “closed door” periods
                                                              K
be used on car trips. Your puppy needs to be able to          short at first.
comfortably stand-up, lie down, turn around and stretch
inside their crate.                                           When you’re happy that your
                                                              puppy is relaxed in the crate,
                                                              with the door closed, leave
                                                              them alone – initially for short
                                                              periods, gradually increasing
                                                              the duration.

                                                               ake sure that their crate is
                                                              M
                                                              always a refuge; never use this
                                                              as a punishment area.

          You & Me                       Harmony
      Dog Training Crate             Velvet Dog Basket

                                                               For more tips on how to crate train your
                                                               puppy visit our Youtube channel!
Puppy must-dos.
While nobody likes paperwork, the quicker you get onto this,
the quicker you can ensure your puppy’s health, safety and
                       happiness.
Settling in

Microchipping and registration
In most Australian states and territories, getting
your puppy microchipped is mandatory. This is
a harmless procedure that allows you to register
your puppy so that if they ever stray, a vet or
pound can use the microchip to identify them and
access your contact details. Many local councils     As the smallest member of your
require residents to register their dogs before      family, your puppy will need a
they reach 12 weeks of age, and fines can apply      number of trips to the vet in their first
if you don’t do so. Check whether your puppy has     year. With Petbarn Insurance, you can
already been microchipped, as many breeders will     save up to 80% on consultations,
do this as standard procedure. Ensure you register   surgery and medicines.
your pet with a national pet registry for even
                                                     For more on Petbarn’s award winning
easier lost-pet recovery. If your pet has not been
                                                     pet insurance, head to petbarn.com.
microchipped, take them to your local Greencross
                                                     au/insurance.
Vets to have this quick and easy procedure done.
Pedigree pups.
If you’re welcoming a purebred puppy into
your family, it’s worth knowing their family tree.
Breeders should supply papers that show that
the puppy is registered with the relevant breeder
association.
Ask the breeder for the registration and vet
records of your puppy’s parents, including
certificates showing they’ve been screened for       Greencross Vets’ Healthy Pets
any common hereditary diseases.                      Plus program is the future of
                                                     safeguarding your pet’s health
Health checklist                                     and well-being. This proactive and
Registered breeders and pet adoption centres         preventative healthcare program
will have taken your puppy for their first vet       promotes the early detection of
health check, which includes the first round of      disease and illness to keep your
vaccinations and microchipping. Make sure you        pet healthy and save you money at
have a record of the following:                      every visit!

     First vet health check                          Visit greencrossvets.com.au/
                                                     healthy-pets-plus to learn more.
     Microchipping

     Vaccination record

     Parasite prevention plan

Flip to the record book on page 53 to stay up to
date with your puppy’s health. This record will be                    For more information
useful when your pet starts puppy school and is                       on microchipping,
also necessary if you’re thinking of sending your                     visit your local
puppy to doggy day care, a boarding facility or                       Greencross Vets.
for a pamper session at the groomer.

                                                                                                 19
What should
           I feed my puppy?
      Feeding the right food is an important part of giving your puppy the
     best start in life. A super premium diet is the best way for your little one
                         to grow into a happy and healthy dog.

                                                          A puppy grows much faster
                                                          than you – in just a year or
                                                          two, they’ll accomplish what
                                                          you do in 15 years (hence ‘dog
                                                          years’). To support their healthy
                                                          development, your puppy
                                                          needs specially formulated
                                                          puppy food that is complete
                                                          and balanced and contains a
                                                          higher percentage of proteins,
                                                          fats and carbohydrates
                                                          compared to adult dog foods.
                                                          Look for foods fortified with
                                                          DHA (a natural omega-3 fatty
                                                          acid) as this has been linked
                                                          with smarter, more trainable
                                                          dogs – what a treat!

                                                          Don’t change your
                                                          puppy’s food in the first
                                                          few days in their new
                                                          home.
                                                          Moving house and changing
                                                          families is very stressful and
                                                          can affect your puppy’s
                                                          digestive system. Keeping them
                                                          on the same diet they’re used
                                                          to will reduce the chance of
                                                          stomach upsets or diarrhoea.
                                                          When you are ready to change
                                                          your puppy’s diet, do so over a
                                                          minimum of ten days, gradually
                                                          introducing their new food.

20   petbarn.com.au
Feeding

Choosing their food                Wet or dry puppy food?             When is my puppy
Take into account:                 Why not both! Mixing a little      ready for adult food?
1. The age of your puppy.          bit of wet food into their         While some dogs will always
                                   kibble provides your puppy         have a spark of puppy-like
2. The breed of your puppy.
                                   with the dental benefits           cheekiness, your puppy’s
3. How active your puppy           of dry food as well as the         physical maturity level will
   is (different foods have        tastiness of wet food.             depend on their breed and
   varied energy outputs and
                                   Remember to take into              size. Small and medium breeds
   therefore varied quantity
                                   consideration the total            typically become adults at 12
   recommendations).
                                   amount of food that they are       months, while it can take up to
4. Whether your puppy is                                              24 months for giant breeds to
                                   eating in a day. Wet puppy
   overweight, a healthy weight                                       mature. Every dog will hit their
                                   food (or raw meats) should
   or underweight.                                                    milestones at different times
                                   not be in addition to the
5. The size of your puppy, and     recommended daily feeding          and it’s best to talk to your
   how big they will grow.         amount on the dry puppy            local Greencross Vets about
                                   food bag, but should replace       your pet’s growth. Once your
6. What you are currently
                                   a portion of the dry food.         puppy is all grown up, use our
   feeding your puppy.
                                                                      Food Finder to determine the
                                                                      right adult dog food for them.

    Types of puppy food

   After understanding your puppy’s age, breed, activity and weight, look for a food that
   matches their needs. Puppy food comes in a large variety of options.

      Dry food refers to dried         Wet food refers to               Fresh & frozen food often
      kibble and is often a            the food available in            contains meats and
      convenient option for pet        pouches or tins. These           ingredients in their raw
      owners. Choose a super           foods contain a much             and natural form. You can
      premium dry kibble to            higher water content             find these foods in the
      ensure it is nutritionally       than dry foods and the           fridge and freezer section
      complete and balanced            rich aromas can be used          of your local Petbarn.
      with quality ingredients.        to entice fussy eaters
                                       and increase hydration.

              Pro Plan                         Royal Canin                     Leaps & Bounds
          Healthy Growth &                    Wet Puppy Food                Chicken and Vegetable
       Development Puppy Food                                                  Puppy Fresh Roll

                                                                                                     21
Benefits of super
              premium food.
 What is super premium food?                        health and whether they’re eating the right
                                                    diet for them.
 Not all dog food is equal and ‘super premium’
 refers to the high quality of the ingredients      A healthy dog poo should have the
 and formulations. Compared to the budget           consistency of playdough and leave no
 options typically found in supermarkets, super     residue when picked up. These poos should
 premium puppy and dog food is complete and         not contain any undigested food or an excess
 balanced, vitamin-rich, and nutritionally dense    of grass and fur.
 with quality proteins, fats and carbohydrates
 for healthier pets.                                Switch your puppy to super premium today
                                                    and you’ll soon notice that they’re producing
 Why you should feed a super                        smaller, firmer and less smelly poos!
 premium diet                                       Choose from our range of super premium
 Puppies have different nutritional needs to        foods at Petbarn, including Wellness Core and
 adult or senior dogs, and small-breed dogs         notice the improvements in your pet.
 need different nutrition to large breeds. A
 super premium diet is specifically formulated
 to support the needs of specific breeds at
 each stage of life. This quality of food is           We recommend
 nutritionally complete and balanced and
 should be used as your puppy’s everyday diet
 as it encourages the healthy development of
 their immune system, brain, joints, muscles
 and more.

 What about the cost?
 You may think that super premium diets
 are expensive compared with supermarket                     Wellness Core        Royal Canin
                                                              Puppy Food          Puppy Food
 brands. However because of their high
 digestibility and calorie density, your puppy
 will need less food to meet their nutritional
 needs. When this is considered and a cost

                                                       Care tip
 per day is calculated, these foods compare
 favourably, especially when ingredient quality
 and the health benefits are factored in.

 Are you feeding your puppy right?
                                                          #146
                                                       The perfect dog poo is one
 The clue is in their poo! It may seem gross
                                                       that you can easily pick up.
 but checking your puppy’s poo is one of the
 best ways to gain an insight into their internal

22   petbarn.com.au
It’s free to join our Friends For Life
membership program where you’ll receive
immediate upfront benefits and earn points
on every dollar you spend in-store or online
with Petbarn and Greencross Vets.

Benefits of Friends For Life

    Automatically receive a $10 voucher after
    you have accrued 6,000 points*

    Access to an exciting range of valuable
    yearly benefits and savings, including a free
    DIY Dog Wash, complimentary nail clipping
    at Greencross Vets and a gift voucher

    Access to special offers and discounts

    Advance notice of events and promotions

    Frequent Feeder program

Loving a pet has never been so easy.

Frequent Feeder.

15% OFF                                              *
food next month when
you buy any cat food.
Exclusively available at Petbarn and City Farmers.

Visit petbarn.com.au/loyalty-program to sign up.
What are the food
     options for my puppy?

Food Finder.
Find the right diet for your puppy.
Our Dog Food Finder is a fun and easy questionnaire to help
you discover which food is the perfect match for your dog.
Visit petbarn.com.au/petspot/food-finder
There’s a world of choice when it comes to choosing what’s on
                                                                                    Feeding
the menu for your puppy. Here’s a look at the options available.

Science based food
Example: Hill’s Science Diet
                                    food requires a little more prep    Food options
                                    than dry foods on the market.
Scientific pet food formulations
                                    It’s important that you handle
are super premium as they are                                                          Greencros s
                                    the raw food with the same                                     ed
backed by extensive evidence-                                                          Vets approv
                                    safety precautions you use when
based research into the nutritional
                                    handling raw meat for yourself.
needs of dogs across different
                                    This includes thoroughly washing
sizes, life stages and health
                                    your hands after handling, and
needs, so they are the best match
                                    disinfecting all surfaces and
for puppies. Being complete and
                                    objects that come into contact
balanced, these types of food
                                    with the food. Find raw food for        Hill’s Science Diet
focus on providing the optimal
                                    your puppy in the Fresh & Frozen     Large Breed Puppy Food
balance of nutrients from high-
                                    Food section at Petbarn.
quality ingredients to support
healthy and happy puppies, right Natural pet food
through to their growth into adult Example: Wellness Core
dogs and beyond.                    Natural pet food formulations
                                     are committed to giving your
Breed specific food                  puppy a well-rounded diet with a
Example: Royal Canin
                                     focus on wholesome ingredients.
There are so many gorgeous
                                     These foods avoid artificial             Royal Canin
dog breeds out there and it’s                                              Poodle Puppy Food
                                     additives and preservatives.
not uncommon for them to have
                                     While these typically sit at the
differing nutritional needs. Some
                                     super premium end of the pet
dogs are more likely to have faster
                                     food scale, they can also be
metabolisms or a predisposition
                                     found in standard varieties.
to a certain health concerns,                                                Leaps & Bounds
                                     Though they’re likely to be        Barf Chicken Puppy Patties
based on genetics. This is where
                                     more expensive, you know that
breed specific kibble comes in. It
                                     your puppy is benefiting from
is scientifically formulated to meet
                                     the best ingredients and the
the needs of your puppy, based
                                     vitamins and minerals that go
on their breed and gives them
                                     with them.
everything they need to be at
their healthiest and happiest.       Grain-free pet food
                                   Example: SavourLife
Raw food                         Grain-free pet foods are not
Example: Leaps & Bounds          to be confused with low-carb                 Wellness Core
Raw food prioritises natural     options, as the grain-free                    Puppy Food
ingredients and a balance of     foods will usually make up for
vitamin and minerals to deliver  carbohydrates via sweet potato
what your puppy needs from their or potato. Available in super
diet. Because the ingredients    premium and standard varieties,
remain in their raw state, the   these formulations are thought
food won’t lose the enzymes      to help with weight management
and vitamins through cooking     and be a closer match to the
or high-pressure processing.     diet of your puppy’s ancestors.
                                                                                SavourLife
Plus, the formulation skips the  Just be sure to read the label to        Grain-free Puppy Food
preservatives that can be found  ensure that all the ingredients
in non-raw foods. For the safety are the right fit for your pet.
of you and your pet, raw dog
                                                                                                        25
Healthy
                                                   Training treats
                                                   Dog treats are a great training aid when
                                                   teaching your puppy commands and rewarding

treats.
                                                   them for good behaviour. One of the reasons
                                                   your puppy will be responsive to this type of
                                                   reward is because they have a strong sense of
                                                   smell. Make sure you don’t go overboard with
                                                   the treats – they should only make up 10%
                                                   of your puppy’s diet – and be sure to choose
Treats are a handy training tool for your          options made from quality, natural ingredients.
puppy and some are better than others.
Here’s our guide to healthy treating.              Off the menu
                                                   While you may consider table scraps dog
                                                   “treats”, they can lead to weight gain and
     Our favourite treats                          stomach upsets. Some of our favourite
                                                   ingredients can even be toxic for dogs. To
                                                   ensure their health, puppies should only eat
                                                   treats and food created specifically for them.

                                                   Treats as games
                                                   Keep your puppy entertained by filling a
                                                   Kong toy with some small treats to create an
         Vitapet         Butcher’s Superior Cuts
        Milky Sticks           Lamb Ear
                                                   interactive game. Challenge your puppy to find
                                                   what’s inside to stimulate their senses and help
                                                   them develop problem-solving skills.

                                                   Healthy treats

     Care tip                                      Just as we humans keep an eye on the snacks

         #122
                                                   we eat, you must consider your puppy’s health
                                                   when buying treats. Always look for puppy
                                                   treats that contain real ingredients like chicken
                                                   and fish, and avoid options that are high in
     Treats should only make                       sugar, preservatives and saturated fats. Treats
     up 10% of their diet.                         with dental benefits and lots of vitamins and
                                                   nutrients are a great way to keep them healthy.

26    petbarn.com.au
Feeding

 Toxic for puppies.
No matter how longingly they look at you with their puppy-dog eyes,
  there are some foods that are absolute no-nos for your dog. The
 following ingredients can lead to serious health issues, and some
                         can even be fatal.

                         Your dog should not eat:

  Onions                                Fruit stones (pits)

  Garlic                                Cooked bones, small pieces of raw bone
                                        and fatty trimmings
  Chocolate
                                        Xylitol (a sugar substitute found in some
  Coffee or caffeine products
                                        products such as lollies and chewing gum)
  Bread dough
                                        Alcohol
  Grapes, raisins, sultanas, currants
                                        Human medications
  Nuts (especially macadamias)

                If your puppy has, or may have consumed any of the
                tems on this list, refer to your local Greencross Vets
                immediately for treatment.

                                                                                    27
Health

             Puppy health checks.
     No-one wants their pet to have health problems, and a healthy pet is a
         happy pet. How often should you take your puppy to the vet?

Greencross Vets                     Tips for stress free vet visits
Greencross Vets is part of our
Petbarn family and together        Trips to the vet don’t have to raise the heart rate. There are
we are here to provide the         steps that you can take to encourage an enjoyable and
best care for your puppy. The      stress-free visit for you and your puppy.
friendly team at Greencross
Vets are here to answer any        Relax                              On the road
questions you may have and         Puppies are very intuitive.        Puppies often arrive at the
it’s easy to find a Greencross     If you adopt a relaxed and         vet anxious due to the car
Vets close to you. Your local      positive attitude when you         ride. Taking your puppy on
team of vets and nurses are        visit the vet, your puppy will     short drives and rewarding
passionate about pets and          often follow your lead.            them can help them get over
will ensure that you and your                                         stress during trips.
pet always receive the highest
standard of veterinary care.       Touchy feely                       Just drop by
                                   Help your puppy become             Popping into the clinic to
First steps                        accustomed to veterinary           say hello can help familiarise
It’s best to take your puppy to    examinations from nose to          your puppy with the vet and
the vet within the first week      tail by playing with their paws    all the smells without being
of bringing them home. Your        and toes, lifting up their lips    physically examined each
vet will perform a nose-to-        and feeling their tummy and        time they visit – except for
tail physical examination to       legs on a regular basis.           cuddles of course!
confirm that there are no
health concerns and establish
the best preventative
healthcare plan including         What if I notice
a vaccination and parasite        something?
prevention program.               If your pet is injured or
                                  showing any signs of illness           To locate your nearest
Regular health checks             such as diarrhoea, vomiting,           Greencross Vets and
Taking your dog to the vet        lethargy or weight loss, it’s          book an appointment
every 6-months is important       important to contact your              call 1300 GREENX or visit
for the early detection of any    local vet as soon as possible.         greencrossvets.com.au.
disease or illness. Each time     It doesn’t hurt to be cautious.
you visit the vet, tell the vet
team anything out of the
ordinary that you’ve noticed.         Go to page 51 for your free puppy health check voucher at
                                      Greencross Vets.
You know your puppy best!

                                                                                                       29
Vaccinations.
 Why should I vaccinate my puppy?
 Your puppy can be exposed to many common         Puppy vaccination schedule
 but preventable diseases that exist in the
 environment and that pass between dogs.               First vaccination between 6-8
 While some of these diseases can be treated,          weeks old
 many are very serious and potentially fatal.
                                                       Booster vaccination between 10-12
 It is necessary to build your dog’s immunity
                                                       weeks old
 when they are young to avoid serious health
 issues in the future.                                 Final puppy vaccination between
                                                       14-16 weeks old

                                                       Annual booster vaccination every
 Vaccinations and socialisation                        year after final puppy vaccination
 Socialising your puppy from a young age
                                                  Your adult dog will require yearly
 is fundamental in reducing behavioural
                                                  vaccination boosters for the rest of their
 problems and ensuring they grow into a
                                                  life to remain immune from these diseases.
 friendly adult. However, you must ensure that
 your puppy is fully protected from diseases      Keep track of your puppy’s vaccinations by
 before they are allowed to explore outside.      using the vaccine record on page 56.
 We recommend you introduce your puppy to
 other vaccinated puppies at an early age to
 assist with socialisation. However, you must
 take care to avoid taking your puppy to dog
 parks or other areas where dogs congregate
 until they have completed their puppy
 vaccinations as they can pick up infections
 from these places.

 Only once your puppy has completed their
 full 14-16 week vaccination schedule, and you
 are certain they are protected and healthy,
 should you take them for walks in public parks
 or introduce them to other dogs. Remember
 that vaccines take 1-2 weeks after the final
 injection to fully protect your pet.

30 petbarn.com.au
What is Healthy Pets Plus?
Healthy Pets Plus is developed by veterinarians
and is exclusive to Greencross Vets. It’s a
proactive, preventative healthcare program
designed to keep your pet healthier and happier
for longer. At Petbarn and Greencross Vets,
we believe proactive care not only improves                                      Unlimited
your pet’s quality of life, it adds years to it. The
Healthy Pets Plus program makes doing the right
                                                                                 Consultations
thing for your pet simple and affordable.

                                                                                 Vaccinations &
How does it work?                                                                Microchipping
The Healthy Pets Plus membership program
includes a complete standard of preventative
care services for your canine companion                                          $200 off
and allows you to spread these costs over a
12-month period.
                                                                                 Dental Care
Bringing your puppy for regular check-ups allows

                                                           %                     20% off
your Greencross veterinarian to evaluate their
general well-being and identify any health issues
before they become serious illnesses. Your puppy                                 Parasite Prevention
can’t tell you how they’re feeling, so making use

                                                           %
of the unlimited free veterinary consultations
and scheduling regular check-ups will give you                                   20% off
peace of mind and confidence that your puppy
is healthy and happy.
                                                                                 Dog Food*
Visit greencrossvets.com.au/healthy-pets-plus
to learn more.                                                                   10% off Products,
                                                                                 Services and
                                                                                 Medication

                                                                                 Annual Health
                                                                                 Screening Test
                                                       Sold at Greencross Vets
                                                       *

                                                                                                  31
Puppy teething.
Just like human babies, puppies are born with no teeth. Their first    Signs that your puppy
set of baby teeth, or milk teeth, grow in between 3 and 4 weeks of
                                                                       is teething:
age. When your puppy is around 4-5 months old, these teeth will
fall out to make room for their permanent set of adult teeth. By 5-7     increased chewing
months, all the adult teeth will be present. It is important to note     behaviour
that this can vary depending on the breed.
                                                                         sensitive teeth or red gums
This means that puppies experience teething twice, once for
                                                                         chewing on unusual objects
their milk teeth and again with their adult teeth. While teething
is generally not a painful process for your puppy, they may              loose baby teeth
experience some discomfort in their jaw at this time. The best
way to help them alleviate this is to provide your puppy with
specifically-designed soft chew toys. This will also prevent              We recommend
unwanted chewing of other objects around the house.

Your puppy’s teeth won’t            Should I see the vet?
look after themselves.              While teething may involve
                                                                                    Kong
                                    some bleeding from the gums
It’s important to establish                                                  Puppy teething stick
                                    as your puppy’s sharp teeth
a good dental care routine
                                    emerge, if you notice a large
while your puppy is young.
                                    amount of blood, immediately
Once they feel relaxed about
                                    seek professional assistance
having their mouth examined,
                                    from your vet.
it’s time to start brushing their
teeth. Ideally, you should do       Before all your puppy’s adult
this daily to prevent dental        teeth have grown in, you
disease. Another way to keep                                            To locate your nearest
                                    should book them in for a
their teeth healthy is to use                                           Greencross Vets and book
                                    dental appointment at your
a water additive, and choose                                            an appointment online,
                                    local Greencross Vets for a
food, treats and toys that have                                         visit greencrossvets.com.au.
                                    precautionary checkup.
dental care benefits.

32   petbarn.com.au
Health

    Desexing your puppy.
What is desexing?                                             Myths and facts
Desexing your puppy involves the removal of their
reproductive system. Don’t panic – they will be under        Myth:
general anaesthetic while the procedure is performed         Pets become lazy after they are
and will be back to their energetic selves within a          desexed.
few days. In females, the procedure is also known as
spaying and involves the removal of the ovaries and          Fact:
almost always the uterus. In males, it is known as           Your pet’s personality generally
neutering and entails the removal of their testicles.        won’t change after they’re
                                                             desexed. However, young male
When should my puppy be desexed?                             dogs will be less inclined to mount
The right age for desexing your dog can vary depending       objects and jump fences in search
on their breed and size. Historically, the recommended       of a mate.
age for desexing a dog is six months. However as each
pet is unique, the Greencross Vets team will take into       Myth:
consideration everything that’s special about your dog       Females should have a litter
before giving any recommendations.                           before being desexed.

Why is desexing necessary?                                   Fact:
In females, desexing your dog prevents unwanted              This is not true for your pet’s
pregnancies, and automatically stops their cycles and        health. In fact, spaying a dog
the associated bleeding and unwanted attention from          before her first heat will greatly
male dogs that result in pregnancy.                          reduce the risk of mammary
Castration in male dogs helps to reduce some                 cancer.
behaviour-related issues, like aggression problems
and wandering instincts. Desexing your male dog is
                                                             Myth:
a protective measure against them becoming lost as           Desexing will cause my pet to
it reduces their hormonal drive to stray from home in        become overweight.
search of a mate. In addition, male urine can smell
particularly strong and pungent, and desexing usually        Fact:
prevents this unpleasant odour.                              Desexing is typically done at an
                                                             age when rapid puppy growth
Greencross Vets highly recommends that you have
your dog desexed. This will provide your dog with many       is decreasing and diet control is
health benefits and also prevent more unplanned              necessary. However overfeeding
puppies from ending up in animal shelters. While it is       and lack of exercise are the
not a legal offence in the other Australian states, in the   culprits if your pet is gaining
ACT and SA, it is mandatory for you to desex your dog        weight, not desexing.
by the time they are 6 months old.

                                                                                                   33
Parasite prevention
          Parasites, such as fleas, ticks and worms, exist in our environment and pose a serious
          danger to your puppy’s health. Some of these infections can even be transmitted to
        humans. Taking a proactive approach to your puppy’s parasite protection is the best way
                                  to ensure your whole family stays safe.

            Fleas:

     Fleas are a common concern for pet parents and they have the potential to infest your home
     quickly; 10 adult fleas can multiply to more than 250,000 fleas in only 30 days! That’s a lot of
     itching and scratching not only for your pet, but also for your family so it’s essential to have your
     puppy on flea medication all year round.

            Ticks:
     Ticks are small parasites that can hide in your puppy’s coat and transmit            Ticks in Australia
     toxins that lead to illness and sometimes death. Though the risk of ticks
     is greater in summer, the reality is that they are a year-round threat. The
     most serious species are paralysis ticks which are most common along
     the east coast of Australia. A sign of paralysis tick toxicity is wobbly back
     legs or if your pet collapses. If you think your puppy has a tick, bring them
     to your local Greencross Vets immediately.

            Intestinal worms:
     Australia is home to a range of intestinal worms including hookworms, roundworms, whipworms
     and tapeworms. An infected puppy can easily pass these onto children via a friendly kiss so
     worming your puppy is important for keeping your whole family protected. Puppies should be
     wormed every two weeks until they’re three months old, and then once a month until they’re
     six months old. At this point, you’ll choose a product they can take into adulthood and this will
     determine the frequency of treatment.

            Heartworm:
     Heartworm is transferred via mosquitoes. This disease can be fatal for pets
     but it is also completely preventable, so it’s essential that you cover this off
     in your treatment. Visit your local Greencross Vets to discuss the once-yearly
     heartworm injection for dogs. You can also find topical treatments, oral tablets
     and chews for puppies at Petbarn that will keep them safe from heartworm. If
     you need any guidance, just ask your local Petbarn team member.
                                                                                            Nexgard Spectra
                                                                                           Chewables for dogs
34    petbarn.com.au                                                                            2-3.5kg
Flea, tick and worm
 treatment finder
 Finding the best parasite treatment for
   your pet is easy with our simple tool

          Our Treatment Finder will
     recommend the best combination
       of products to ensure your pet
       is 100% protected against the
            parasites in your area.

                   Search
         for 'Petbarn flea tick worm tool'

                                             35
Do
                                                                  Keep an eye out for signs
                                                                  your puppy may need to
                                                                  go, including turning in
                                                                  circles, sniffing the ground
                                                                  or whining.

                                                                  Gently redirect them to
                                                                  the right place if you do
                                                                  find they have gone to the
                                                                  toilet in the wrong place.

                                                                  Clean up their accidents
                                                                  thoroughly as your puppy
                                                                  will be keen to reinforce
                                                                  their scent.

                                                                  Use puppy pads from
                                                                  day one of toilet training.

Toilet training.
                                                                  These are great for
                                                                  apartment-dwellers and
                                                                  can also be handy to
                                                                  encourage your pet to
                                                                  do their business in the
While it might not be the most glamorous side                     garden by moving them
of puppy parenting, toilet training is one of                     closer and closer to the
the most important steps. Being patient with                      garden door each time.
them and reacting in the right way will be the
                                                                  Give them lots of
difference between success and failure.                           praise and positive
                                                                  reinforcement for going in
It’s important to start toilet training your puppy as soon as     the right place.
they arrive home. Allocate a spot for your pet to use and
be very clear where the ‘no go’ zones are. The best method
is to create a toilet routine and stick to it. Take your puppy
                                                                 Don’t
to the toilet area at these times, remembering they may
go around a dozen times a day:
                                                                  Get angry at your puppy
                                                                  or rub their nose in their
     as soon as they wake,                                        mess if you find them
     after playing or eating,                                     going to the toilet in the
                                     We recommend                 wrong place or if they
     after being in their crate.                                  have a little accident.
                                                                  Your puppy won’t make
Your puppy will be eager to                                       the link between your
please you, so if you stick to                                    anger and the location
these tips and a good routine,                                    and will instead learn
they should pick up the basics                                    that going to the toilet
of toilet training quickly.                                       anywhere when you’re
                                              So Phresh           around is unacceptable.
                                           Eco Training Pads

36   petbarn.com.au
Training

Why puppy
school is worth it.
Being a puppy parent can be a big step. Sending your puppy to
school is a great way for both of you to learn and grow.

The early months of your puppy’s          What they’ll learn
life are crucial in their development
                                          Being social: Learning how to communicate and interact
of socialisation and communication
                                          with others is important. Petbarn’s puppy school classes
skills. These early life experiences
                                          include socialisation sessions where your puppy will be
influence how your puppy will play,
                                          taught to play nice with other dogs and humans.
communicate and learn as they
develop into an adult dog.                Basic cues: Learning manners and good behaviour is
                                          essential to your puppy’s development. At puppy school, you
Petbarn’s puppy school is one of
                                          and your puppy will pick up important cues like sit, stay, drop
the best ways to ensure your puppy
                                          and come. Lead walking, toilet training and troubleshooting
learns these skills in a safe and
                                          naughty behaviour will also be on the agenda.
positive environment. Classes are
available for puppies as young as         How to adjust: As a new pet parent you’ll want to keep your
eight weeks old, and starting early       puppy safe, while also making sure they adjust well to being
can give you the tools required to        a member of your family. At puppy school, your charge will
develop a strong relationship with        learn how to play safely with kids, and you’ll also learn when
your pet, helping them to become a        and why it’s important to take your puppy to the vet.
real part of your family.

   What you need to know about Petbarn Puppy School
   Our trainers: Our puppy school courses are run by experienced Greencross Vets nurses and/or
   qualified dog trainers with a special interest in animal behaviour. In each session you will have
   the opportunity to ask for advice and feedback on you and your puppy’s progress.

   Our classes: Our puppy school courses run for 4 or 5 weeks with each class running for
   approximately one hour. Each class will typically have 4-8 puppies in attendance.

   Enrolment requirements: Your puppy must be between the age of 8-16 weeks as of the first
   week of class. They must have had at least one vaccination a minimum of 2 weeks beforehand
   and be up to date with their parasite treatments to ensure their health and safety as well as
   that of the other puppies.

   Selected Petbarn stores operate Puppy Schools. Visit petbarn.com.au/puppyschool to enrol
   in a class near you!
Stepping
out together.
Going out for walks and socialising in the park is
very exciting. Just remember that it can be a bit
daunting for young dogs. Here are some tips for
basic puppy training.

When can I take my                 along with people and other
                                   animals. Each new experience
puppy outside?
                                   will help your puppy to
As their immune system is          understand what to make
still developing, puppies are      of the world around them.
vulnerable to contracting          Introduce your puppy to new
dangerous illnesses in our         sights, sounds and smells in
environment. Greencross            a positive way to build their
Vets advises waiting until         confidence and let them grow
two weeks after a puppy’s          into well-adapted dogs.
14-16 week vaccination before                                         Walking on a lead
introducing them to the            Things you should                  Most of the time your puppy is
great outdoors and public          try to familiarise your            outside they will need to be on
places. Also ensure your                                              a lead. These accessories can
puppy is protected from fleas,
                                   puppy with include:
                                                                      feel uncomfortable for your pet
ticks, intestinal worms and           other dogs and puppies          at first. It’s best to take your
heartworm.                                                            time and let your puppy adjust
                                      a range of people of all
                                                                      to the feeling of their collar
How do I socialise my                 ages, especially children
                                                                      before attaching the lead. Make
puppy?                                other pets, such as cats        sure you try not to lead or drag
Socialisation is an important                                         your puppy – coax them with a
                                      unfamiliar people, such as
part of a young puppy’s life.                                         treat, and always reward good
                                      strangers at the park
During their first three to four                                      behaviour. Your puppy will be
months, they will learn how           noisy household appliances      walking the line in no time.
to communicate and get

                                          Teach your puppy basic manners and cues at Petbarn Puppy
                                          School. Visit petbarn.com.au/puppyschool to enrol.

38   petbarn.com.au
Training

 New dog, great tricks!

Here are some tips for how to teach simple commands to your puppy, and
how to get them to listen.
Sit                              Stay                              Come
  Hold a treat above your         Best taught after “Sit”           Have your puppy on a long
  puppy’s nose and move                                             lead and let them wander
                                  Have your puppy on a long
  it above their head
                                  lead and have them sit            Hold a treat and say
  Your puppy will tilt their                                        “Come” clearly
                                  Hold your palm out in front of
  head back and maybe
                                  your puppy, take a step back,     Praise when your puppy
  even sit on
                                  and say “Stay”                    completes the command
  their own
                                                                    (not always with a
                                  If your puppy stays, reward
  Say the word                                                      treat, sometimes
                                  them with a treat or a pat
  “Sit” clearly at                                                  a pat will do)
  the moment                      Repeat the steps to practice,
  they sit down                   gradually taking more and
                    Love Em
                                  more steps while using the                         Bond & Co
                 Puppy Rewards
                                  “Stay” command                                   Collar and Lead
                                                                                          Set

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