CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW BERNER PUPPY!
For your convenience, we have compiled a list of answers to FAQ's for your reference.
- FOOD: Your puppy is eating Iams Minichunks dry kibble. (Not Large Breed formula, not Puppy formula, etc.) It will be best for you to have this food on hand when you bring your puppy home. It is recommended to make any dietary changes very slowly. Puppy foods are generally not recommended as the high protein causes the puppies to grow too fast, which can lend to joint issues.
- VACCINATIONS: Puppy vaccines are given in a series of three. Your puppy will have its first vaccine. Vaccine #2 is due approximately 4 weeks after the first and #3 is due approximately 4 weeks after the second. The first rabies vaccination is typically given at or after 6 months of age.
- WORMING: Your puppy has been wormed at least twice – emails with specific details go out to owners at the time of worming. They have also received sulfadimethoxine in their water to treat for coccidia.
- We generally use Nemex-2 for the first de-worming and is usually given around 3 weeks of age.
- We generally use Bayer Quad Dewormer for the second worming and is usually given two weeks after the first de-worming.
- TOYS: Your puppy has been playing with full sized tennis balls and LARGE rawhide retriever rolls (Brand name: Cadet – can be found on Amazon or sometimes Costco.) Choose products made in the USA, when possible, and avoid products that come from China - there have been many recalls due to severe reactions and deaths from chemicals/toxins found in products from this area. Please do your research!
- FEEDING: Your puppy is used to having kibble and fresh water free choice from the time they get up in the morning until they go to bed. If you choose to feed your puppy on a schedule (could be easier for house training) they will need 3 – 4 feedings a day until they can handle a bigger meal. Then you can slowly decrease the number of feedings, while increasing the amount per feeding as they get older/bigger. Avoid food bolting (gulping or wolfing down their meal) as this can lead to bloat.
- PARASITES: Parasites happen – all dogs have them in their system – and stress, like the stress of going to a new home and/or feed changes and/or schedule changes, can cause their immune system to weaken giving parasites the opportunity to thrive. If your puppy experiences watery/bloody diarrhea they need to be seen by a vet.
- PAPERWORK: Your puppy will come with their AKC registration paperwork and vaccination information when you pick them up. PLEASE DO NOT LOSE THIS PAPERWORK! All paperwork and packaging is original and is not replaceable.
The information contained here is given as a courtesy; it in no way replaces advice from a licensed veterinarian.
