Puppy Care: 5 to 6 Months

When your puppy reaches five months of age, he or she should be house trained and regularly going outside. It’s also very important that your puppy is spayed or neutered by this point, as around 5 to 6 months is when your puppy is reaching sexual maturity. That is, unless of course you want them to have puppies. But spaying or neutering your pet is not only the safest option, but is also good for them when interacting with other dogs.

Also, at five months, your puppy should have their permanent teeth and are trying to chew everything in sight. Like you should be doing right when they first get their teeth, make sure that he or she has plenty of appropriate gnaw able items. This is when you want to also begin a toothbrushing routine. Do not use human toothpaste, as the fluoride and some other ingredients in it will make dogs sick. This is because they most likely will swallow it instead of sitting it out.

You’ll also want to check with your vet to get your puppy vaccinated for rabies and whatever other vaccines he or she may need that are required by your local laws. These vaccines will need to be repeated after a year. It’s very important to get these core vaccines for your dog’s health.

Once your puppy reaches six months or twenty-four weeks, he or she should be in a stage of what is sometimes known as “teenage doghood.” Like human teenagers, this can mean some rebellious behavior, and it’s very important that your dog learns what “No” means. This period can last all the way until eight months or maturity. Remember that patience and positive reinforcement are key to building good habits with your dog.