Bringing a new puppy into your home is exciting, but it comes with many questions. Puppies grow and develop quickly, and understanding their needs is key to ensuring they grow into healthy, happy adult dogs. Here are some of the most common questions new puppy owners ask, with straightforward answers to help you navigate this adorable yet challenging phase.

1. How Much Water Should a Puppy Drink?

Puppies need plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially since they’re highly active. As a rule of thumb, puppies should drink about ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. For example, a 10-pound puppy should drink roughly 5–10 ounces of water daily.

Keep in mind:

• Puppies nursing from their mother may get most of their hydration from milk.
• Always provide fresh, clean water and monitor their intake, especially after playtime or meals.

If you notice your puppy drinking excessively or not enough, consult a veterinarian to rule out potential health issues. Learn more about proper hydration for puppies at PetMD.

2. When Do Puppies Start Walking?

Puppies begin trying to walk around 2 to 3 weeks of age, although their initial steps may look more like a wobbly shuffle. By 4 to 5 weeks, most puppies have developed enough strength and coordination to walk steadily.

Encourage healthy development by:

• Providing a soft, non-slippery surface for them to practice walking.
• Allowing plenty of rest between their bouts of exploration.

3. Is It Normal for Puppies to Breathe Fast?

Yes, fast breathing is common in puppies, especially after playing, eating, or during sleep. Puppies have higher metabolic rates than adult dogs, which can result in rapid breathing.

However, if your puppy’s breathing seems excessively fast, labored, or accompanied by other symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge, or lethargy, it’s time to call your vet.

4. When Do Puppies Open Their Eyes?

Puppies typically open their eyes between 10 and 14 days after birth. However, their vision remains blurry for the first few weeks, and they may be sensitive to bright light.

By 4 to 6 weeks, puppies’ vision improves significantly, allowing them to explore their surroundings with confidence. For more details, check out our article: When Do Puppies Open Their Eyes?

5. When Can Puppies Drink Water?

Puppies can start drinking water around 3 to 4 weeks of age, when they begin weaning off their mother’s milk. Introduce water in a shallow dish to prevent accidental drowning and make sure it’s easily accessible.

During this time, puppies should also be transitioning to solid food. You can mix puppy food with water or a milk replacer to create a soft texture that’s easy for them to eat.

6. Do Puppies Breathe Fast When They’re Sleeping?

Yes, it’s normal for puppies to breathe fast while sleeping. Puppies often experience active sleep, a phase where they twitch, whine, and breathe more rapidly. This is believed to be linked to their growth and development.

Unless your puppy is struggling to breathe or showing signs of discomfort, there’s usually no need to worry. For peace of mind, monitor their breathing pattern over time and consult a vet if anything seems unusual.

7. When Do Puppies Change Eye Color?

Puppies are typically born with blue or gray eyes, but these colors aren’t permanent. Most puppies’ eyes start to change around 4 to 6 weeks, gradually settling into their permanent color by 10 to 12 weeks. For some breeds, like Huskies and maltipoos, the process may take a bit longer

This change happens because melanin, the pigment responsible for eye color, develops over time.

8. What should puppies eat?  

To ensure your puppy gets the best nutrition, choose high-quality food made with natural ingredients.  Some brands offer air-dried and canned options designed to provide a balanced diet, packed with essential nutrients to support your puppy’s growth and overall health. Proper nutrition not only promotes a shiny coat and strong teeth but also supports their immune system and energy levels.

9. Are There Other Things Puppy Owners Should Know?

Here are a few more common questions to consider:

• When Do Puppies Lose Their Baby Teeth? Puppies begin losing their baby teeth around 3 to 4 months old, with their permanent teeth usually fully grown by 6 months.
• When Can Puppies Go Outside? Puppies can start exploring outdoors once they’ve received their first round of vaccinations, typically around 8 to 10 weeks. Always supervise them and avoid areas with high dog traffic until they are fully vaccinated.
• When Do Puppies Start Barking? Puppies often begin barking around 6 to 8 weeks old, but it varies depending on their breed and temperament.

Conclusion

Raising a puppy comes with its fair share of questions, but understanding their development and behaviors will help you meet their needs and create a strong bond. If you have further concerns, consult a trusted veterinarian or refer to reliable resources like the American Kennel Club.

Being proactive and informed will ensure you and your puppy enjoy a happy, healthy journey together!