A healthy start for your puppy: tips from veterinarian Lobke

Advice from veterinarian Lobke

Nutrition: the foundation of a healthy puppy

Good nutrition is one of the cornerstones of a puppy’s healthy development. Puppies grow quickly and therefore need food that is rich in high-quality proteins, vitamins and minerals. Always choose food that is specially formulated for puppies and suited to your dog’s breed and size.

Tips for healthy nutrition:

• Offer small, frequent meals, especially during the first few weeks, to support digestion and maintain steady energy levels.
• Make sure the balance of calcium and phosphorus is right, as this is essential for strong bones.
• Fresh drinking water should always be available.

A well-balanced diet forms the basis for healthy growth and long-term vitality. You may also consider small puppy snacks, specially developed to support the growth and development of young dogs.

Vaccinations and deworming: prevention is better than cure

Alongside proper nutrition, vaccinations and deworming are essential for your puppy’s health. Vaccinations protect your pup against serious diseases such as parvovirus, canine distemper and hepatitis. Regular deworming helps prevent health issues caused by internal parasites.

Tip:Talk to your veterinarian about a suitable vaccination and deworming schedule.

By addressing this early on, you lay a strong foundation for your dog’s future health.

Rest and basic skills: learning with care

Puppies need plenty of sleep; rest is crucial for their development. During sleep, they process everything they have learned during the day. You can support this by providing a calm environment and keeping to a regular sleep routine.

Basic skills to practise:

• Start by teaching your puppy to recognise its name.
• Then introduce simple commands such as “sit”, “come” and “down”.
• Reward desired behaviour with positive reinforcement, such as gentle praise or a small treat.

Patience and consistency are key. Avoid forcing anything and give your puppy the time he needs to learn and adapt.

Socialisation: the foundation of a balanced character

Socialisation is just as important as nutrition and rest. Puppies learn most during the first six months of their lives. By introducing your pup in a positive way to different people, animals, sounds and situations, you help prevent fear and behavioural issues later on.

Practical tips:

• Let your puppy experience a variety of sounds, environments and surfaces.
• Arrange play sessions with other well-socialised dogs.
• Feeling unsure? Seek guidance from a professional who can help you read your puppy’s signals.

A well-socialised puppy grows into a balanced, confident dog.

Finally: observe, learn and enjoy

Every puppy is unique and has its own personality, learning pace and way of exploring the world. That’s why it’s important to pay close attention to your puppy’s behaviour, body language and overall health. Do you notice anything that is different from normal? Don’t hesitate to ask your vet or a trusted professional for advice. Acting early can prevent many problems and gives you confidence as a pet parent.

By focusing on the right nutrition, medical care, rest and socialisation, you gradually build a strong foundation. Together, these elements shape a healthy and happy life for your dog. During this period, your puppy doesn’t just learn how the world works, but also learns that you are his safe place, someone he can rely on.

Those first months are therefore more than a fun journey of discovery: they are an investment in the future. The habits you teach now will grow into the behaviours and routines you’ll share for years to come. And the more attention, patience and love you give now, the stronger the bond you build together will become. A bond that lasts a dog's lifetime.

in a nutshell