Your 10 week old puppy
You should be starting to get into a routine with your new puppy – but don’t despair if you’re experiencing the ‘puppy blues’, you’re not alone. Here’s what to expect with your 10-week-old puppy.
Second vaccinations
If your puppy had their first round of injections at 8 weeks, they will now be due for their second set of vaccinations. These are normally 2-4 weeks after the first injections.
Now is the time to make sure you have an appointment booked with the vet. Take along some tasty treats for your puppy to enjoy while at the vet. This will help them to associate something positive (the treat) with going to the vet and can make them less anxious about going in the future.
Teething and biting
Has your puppy turned into a little nipper? During the teething phase, puppies bite and chew to help soothe sore gums. Make sure that you have a good selection of rubber toys for your puppy to chew instead of you.
Biting is normal behaviour but your puppy needs to learn to be gentle with their mouth. You can find lots of tips to help you do this in our Nip It In The Bud Puppy Parenting Toolkit, which you can download for £2.79.
Sign up for puppy school
Get your puppy signed up for training classes. Your puppy will be ready to go two weeks after they’ve had their second vaccination.
Research dog care services
If you’re going to be away from the home during the day, you may want to employ a dog walker or use doggy day care. Give yourself time to find the right service for you and your dog.
Common questions you may ask this week
Can I walk my 10 week old puppy?
There are many benefits to taking your puppy outside. However, they won’t be fully protected from diseases until two weeks after their second vaccination. For now, you should stick to the garden or carry them outside in your arms on in a pet carrier. Use this time to do some basic training with your puppy. Get them used to walking on the lead in the house or garden.
Download our toolkit
You will find some great tips on how to teach your puppy the basics in our Puppy Training Toolkit, which is available to download for just £2.79.
How much sleep does a 10 week old puppy need?
Your puppy will need lots of sleep in the early weeks. They may still be sleeping 18-20 hours a day at this age. Start to train your puppy to get into a regular pattern of sleep, such as after meals and between playtimes. This will help to get them into a good bedtime routine. Get them used to going to sleep in their bed or crate during the day, as well as a night.
How much should a 10 week old puppy eat?
Your puppy will need about three meals a day until they are about six months old. How much to feed them depends on their age and size. Follow the guidance provided by your choice of pet food manufacturer about how much food you should give your puppy. Remember that treats, chews, filled bones and puzzle feeders all count as calories. Ask your vet if you are in doubt. Remember that treats count as calories, so factor these in when calculating how much to feed your puppy.
Support for you during your puppy’s first year
Wishing your puppy came with an instruction manual? As a member of our Puppy Parenting Club you can access a range of advice and tools to support you through the first year. Sign up today for just £24.99
