A few questions pre arrival

[illmonkey]

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We've put an order in for a Vizsla puppy, male. Collect is at the end of the month, and as its my first dog, I want to be prepared. So I've some questions

Whats the deal with raw food? Is it just healthier for them? Can you do it from 9 weeks?

Whats the rule with walking? We walk a fair amount at weekends and will obviously start during the week. But when can we take puppy out from?

How soon can I start training classes or even gun training?

Whats the best way to introduce puppy to a cat?

Sorry for just firing questions! I can post pics once he arrives.

 

[chelynnah]

Puppy should not go out walking in public areas until a week after his second vaccination when he should have full immunity. If you have friends with vaccinated dogs then bringing him there to socialise can be good. I also take mine out earlier in my arms or puppy pram (yes I hear the snickers, but early socialising is important even before the vaccines are complete) early on. I get them used to people, trains, cars, seeing other dogs.

Official puppy classes are usually as soon as they have had their jabs. Look around now and book now as they fill up quick. Look for APDT trainers and positive trainers. Clicker (and whistle for gun dog training) training is excellent. You might find a trainer who does baby puppy socialising classes in a safe environment.

Walking, don't overdo distances too early. Speak with your breeder about what is safe at what ages for the breed. Puppies will go forever but that doesn't mean it's good for them. Too much walking or 'forced' exercise (like jogging) at too early an age can lead to joint issues as damage can be done to the joints while growing.

Unless the breeder is feeding raw already and can give you support and a meal plan I wouldn't rush to change to raw yet. It's really important in the first couple of weeks especially to keep things consistent with feeding as there are so many other things changing. Let him adjust, follow the breeder's instructions and diet sheet, and start exploring raw feeding if you think it's something you'd like to try.

Hope all goes well. Great that you're asking here, but a good breeder will be more than happy to discuss these things with you, as they want the best for their pups. I have spent many hours on phone or emails with prospective puppy buyers answering just such questions. It's a pleasure to do.

As for gun dog training, again probably a good question for the breeder. Principals can start early, but not sure when the official training starts.

Best of luck

Wendy