Puppy Food and Feeding Schedules

Hill's Science Puppy Small Bites is what your new puppy will be eating after they have weaned from mommy's milk. If your pup is 4lbs or under, wetting the dry food with warm water and letting it sit for 15 minutes until it softens, will be easier for the puppy to chew and digest. However, as your dog grows, you’ll want to avoid wetting the dry kibbles so his/her poop is completely solid.

As an alternative to kibble, feeding your puppy a raw food diet which consists of raw muscle meat, organs, bone, fresh fruit, and eggs have also been shown to improve their digestion and health outcomes. To minimize the risk of food-borne illness, gentle cook the food to provide the same benefits without the contamination downsides.

Your new puppy will need to eat four (4) times a day, in 3–4 hour intervals. For example: 9am, 12:30pm, 4pm, and 7:30pm. Two handfuls of dry or wet food should suffice, however, if your pup is sniffing the bowl or floor for more, please don’t hesitate to add another handful. They are growing and need an adequate amount of food and exercise. 

Dog Walking and Vaccinations

At the time of pickup, your new pup will be up-to-date with vaccinations and dewormings. All paperwork will be provided with our veterinarian's contact information. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated at 4 months old, it is important you minimize the amount of time your puppy spends with other dogs, feces, and human bodily fluids to prevent him/her from contracting a virus or fleas/ticks. For this reason, please wait until all their vaccinations are complete before taking them on walks.

Indoor Potty Training

Potty training requires attentiveness, repetition, and patience. Your pup should be in a gated or closed off section of your home where they can sleep and roam freely. Alternatively, a crate can also be used or a lockable play pen. 

Designate a patio, backyard or several pee pads away from their food and water where they can potty. About 20–40 minutes after eating, your puppy will need to relieve themselves (walking in circles is usually an indication). Move them to the potty area if they are not already standing there and congratulate them with praiseand/or a treat immediately. Do this every time they eliminate on the pee wee pad. Positive reinforcement helps puppies learn faster.

Outdoor Potty Training  

It is important to take your new puppy outside every 1–2 hours, especially 20–40 minutes after eating. Use praise, treats, and verbal cues such as “Go Potty” whenever he/she releases. Consistency is key.

Praise Over Punishment

Scolding or yelling at your young pup will only scare them, which will result in your dog holding their bladder and releasing when you are not looking. If they miss the pee wee pad, move them to the correct area with verbal praise.