Puppy's Life

Look & Learn

Ideas to help keep your puppy happy & healthy

From the moment Durham entered the life of Bernadine Cruz, the two formed an instant bond. The black Labrador Retriever puppy had a high-energy personality coupled with chocolate brown eyes that melted her heart. The Southern California-based veterinarian knows firsthand that puppies love to play. During their first year together, Cruz and Durham had a grand time. Whether they were running, leash in hand, around the neighborhood, rolling around with toys, or cuddling on the couch, they enjoyed every moment.

Moreover, Cruz and Durham loved playing fetch. A dog’s stride should be sure and straight, signs that reassure of proper growth and development, so Cruz paid close attention. She also gave Durham plenty of hugs and love pats when he energetically returned his toy. Those hugs have an extra benefit too: “You want to see a bit of a tuck-in around the ribcage,” she says. “That’s a great sign.”

As much as they love their playtime, Durham and Cruz also enjoy some quiet moments too. Cuddling affords an excellent opportunity for a quick inspection of the head, starting with the fur. Look for a clean coat that also shines and smells sweet—not that you needed any excuse to splash around during bath time! Cruz would glance in Durham’s ears; healthy ears look dry with open canals and pinkness rather than redness. And those puppy-dog eyes? Cruz smiled every time she saw Durham’s bright and shiny eyes, another sign of good health and wellbeing.

Belly rubs did double duty. Durham loved it! For Cruz, she was able to check for any unwanted visitors while rubbing his little belly. “You can tell so much when you play with your dog about how he or she is feeling,” she says. “It’s a fun way to work toward [the] health of your dog.”