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Dogs & Puppies Overview

Dogs and Puppies: Their Needs

Dogs and puppies can bring immense joy and companionship. However, they also have specific needs that foster caregivers should be prepared to meet.

Basic Needs:

  • Exercise: Dogs, especially high-energy breeds and puppies, need regular physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Walks, playtime, and training sessions are all essential. REMINDER: PUPPIES CANNOT WALK OUTSIDE OR TOUCH PUBLIC GROUNDS UNTIL 5 MONTHS OLD DUE TO INCOMPLETE VACCINES. THIS INCLUDES A PRIVATE YARD UNLESS INSTRUCTED OTHERWISE BY THE FOSTER TEAM.
  • Training: Fosters should work on basic training with their foster dogs. This can include leash training, housebreaking, and simple commands like “sit” and “stay.”
  • Safe Space: A dog needs a safe, secure environment where they can rest and feel protected, especially if they are recovering from a stressful shelter experience or a health issue.
  • Body Language Basics– Dogs | Bideawee
  • Dog proofing the home: Dog-Proofing Your Home

Puppies: Special Considerations

  • Socialization: Young puppies need exposure to different environments, people, and other pets (if approved by the Foster Team) to become well-adjusted adults. Ensure this is done in a safe, controlled manner by using the introduction guides here:https://www.bideawee.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/25Introducing-Dogs-to-Other-Dogs.pdf
  • Health and Vaccination: Puppies are more vulnerable to illnesses and may not be fully vaccinated. They should be kept away from unvaccinated dogs and public areas where they could be exposed to disease. *PUPPIES UNDER 5 MONTHS MUST STAY INDOORS UNLESS BEING CARRIED OUTDOORS OR INSTRUCTED OTHERWISE BY THE FOSTER TEAM*
  • Patience: Puppies can be a handful! Housebreaking and teething can require extra patience, as they are still learning what behaviors are acceptable
  • Check out these resources about potty training and using positive reinforcement:

Mother Dogs And Nursing Litters: Special Considerations

Pregnant dogs require special care throughout their gestation period, which typically lasts about 63 days. During this time, they need proper nutrition, a calm environment, and regular veterinary checkups to ensure both the mother and her developing puppies stay healthy. As the due date approaches, the mother dog will begin nesting behavior and look for a safe, comfortable space to give birth.

A whelping box is essential. It provides a clean, warm, secure area for the dog to deliver and care for her puppies. The box helps prevent newborns from wandering, keeps them protected, and gives the mother a quiet space where she feels safe.

Newborn puppies are fragile—they cannot see, hear, or regulate their body temperature for the first couple of weeks. They rely entirely on their mother for warmth, nutrition, and stimulation to help them eliminate waste. Caregivers must keep the environment warm, dry, and clean, monitor the puppies’ growth, and ensure the mother is healthy and producing enough milk.

Overall, proper preparation, including a well-designed whelping box and attentive care, is key to supporting both the mother dog and her newborn puppies through this critical period.

Clean bedding and fresh water should always be provided, and fresh food should be kept handy at all times. Feeding the mother dog requires extra nutrition for adequate milk production. Feed her puppy food, both wet and dry, to ensure that she is getting the appropriate nutrients. Be sure all of the puppies are nursing and steadily gaining weight. Keep an especially close eye on the runt, which is normally the last one born. Newborns depend solely on mothers’ milk as they receive valuable antibodies from it. When the puppies are three weeks old, begin offering puppy food. Be sure to offer at a time when the puppies would be hungry and if necessary, separate them from the mom so she will not eat it all. By four weeks of age they should be eating some mushy meals. By six weeks of age they should be entirely weaned, no longer in need of mothers’ milk and eating a diet solely of puppy food.

NOTE: Contact the Foster Care Management Team if there are ANY signs that mom or puppies are not feeling well.

Socializing

Be aware that mom may be protective of her puppies; however, most mother dogs would allow calm gentle approach by adults and pick up or handling of the puppies. Puppies need as much human contact as they can get; handle them as softly and as much as you can like humane babies. This is a very important time in their lives to receive as much socialization as possible.

Orphaned-Puppy Care (Zero to Three Weeks of Age)

Orphaned puppies should be set up in small living quarters with a small crate with bedding where they can be kept consistently warm, roughly 80-90 degrees. Heating pads are dangerous and should be used with supervision with lots of bedding between the puppies and the pad to avoid burns. Keep the heating pad on the lowest setting.

Feeding

  • Puppy milk replacement (KMR) should be mixed and fed according to the package instructions.
  • At the beginning, feeding is needed every three hours.
  • By three weeks old, feeding every four to five hours with a night break of about eight hours

should work well.

  • Do not hold the dogs on their back or allow them to suckle too fast.
  • The puppies should be tilted forward and slightly up as if they were nursing on their mother.
  • Feed them until the puppy’s tummy feels tight and full.
  • After each feeding you must stimulate for bowel movement and bladder use just as the mother

would. Use a clean warm damp washcloth or cotton ball. Gently massage their genital area in a

circular motion, and do not stop until they have finished eliminating.

As your puppy grows and becomes more mobile, weaning time approaches. Weaning can be started at three weeks of age by offering formula in a low dish or pie plate with or without canned food mixed into it. Supplement with bottle feeding as needed until the pups are lapping consistently from a dish. By four or five weeks no more bottle feeding is needed and hard kibble can slowly be introduced during each feeding. By the seven- to eight-week mark, the puppies should be eating dry kibble heartily. Growing puppies should be handled every day, and gentle grooming can be started at four to five weeks old. As they become more and more aware of their environment they should be exposed to as much stimuli as possible such as vacuums, young children, other adults, neighborhood sounds, and other friendly, healthy animals. Keep in mind that overstimulation can cause stress, so monitor the puppy for signs of discomfort and lethargy. By week eight your puppy should be ready for training. Our behavior staff can show you how to teach a dog to sit, stay, come and fetch, among other commands, as well as leash training. Feel free to teach your pup as many manners as you can because it will aid in his or her adoption process

Puppy Routine Guidelines for First-Time Fosters

Since the puppies you are fostering are not fully vaccinated, they must remain indoors to avoid exposure to harmful diseases. Here are some key guidelines to help you establish a good routine for your foster puppy:

Puppy Foster Care Guidelines

  1. Safety and Environment
  • Indoors Only: Keep the puppy indoors, as they are vulnerable to diseases and need a secure, controlled environment
  • No Outdoor Walks: Puppies should not be walked outside or exposed to outdoor areas until they are at least 5 months old and fully vaccinated unless it is instructed otherwise.
  • Safe Space Setup: Prepare a designated area with bedding, toys, and water where the puppy can rest and feel secure.
  1. Health and Hygiene
  • Vaccination and Vet Care: Puppies are not fully protected from diseases until they’ve completed their vaccine series. Follow all scheduled vet appointments and vaccination timelines provided by the foster team. You must let us know in advance if you cannot make it to the appointment.
  • Hygiene Practices: Wash your hands after handling the puppy and keep their area clean. Clean floors, toys, and bedding regularly, especially if other pets are in the home.
  • Preventative Care: Keep an eye on the puppy for signs of illness (coughing, runny nose, lethargy). Contact us if you notice any unusual symptoms.

PLEASE CALL AND MESSAGE FOSTER PHONE FOR ANY EMERGENCIES 347-474-9114

Monitor for any diarrhea, blood in stool, liquid stool, or anything that may seem unusual.

  1. Feeding and Nutrition

Follow Feeding Guidelines: Feed the puppy according to the recommended feeding schedule. Puppies need 3 meals per day. Morning, noon, and evening. Do not feed other brands of food unless instructed otherwise.

  • Fresh Water Access: Ensure the puppy has access to fresh water at all times.
  1. Socialization and Enrichment
  • Socialize Safely: Puppies need exposure to new experiences, sounds, and people, but this should be done indoors and gradually. Avoid interactions with other dogs or animals unless the foster team approves or if they are an animal in your home.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Use gentle, positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to encourage desired behavior and build trust.
  • Provide Mental Stimulation: Puppies are curious and need mental stimulation. Offer a variety of toys, like chew toys, balls, and puzzles, to keep them engaged and help prevent destructive behavior.
  1. House Training/ Daily Cleaning
  • Indoor Potty Area: Set up an indoor potty area with puppy pads. Remember that puppies may need frequent bathroom breaks, often every 1–2 hours.
  • Accidents Are Normal: Expect accidents, as house training takes time. Clean up messes to remove odors and discourage repeat accidents..
  • Shake their linens and clean the area they spend time in.

CLEAN SPACE= HEALTHY PUPPY

  1. Handling and Boundaries
  • Gentle Handling: Be patient and gentle when handling the puppy. They’re still learning about the world and may be fearful at first.
  • Set Boundaries: Puppies need consistency. Use a calm tone and simple commands to teach them boundaries, like “no” and “gentle.”
  • Supervised Play: Always supervise the puppy, especially around household items they might chew on (cords, shoes, etc.). Provide chew toys to redirect this behavior.
  1. Routine and Sleep
  • Establish a Routine: Puppies thrive on routine, so try to keep feeding, playtime, and potty breaks on a regular schedule.
  • Rest Periods: Puppies need a lot of sleep for healthy growth. Let them rest in a quiet, comfortable spot without too much disturbance.
  1. Monitoring Health
  • Watch for any signs of illness, especially since young puppies are vulnerable. Signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, sneezing, coughing, or lethargy.
  • Eyes, ears, and nose— make sure there is no constant eye discharge, nasal discharge, constant head shaking, excessive ear scratching, and excessive ear wax
  • If you’re fostering puppies recovering from something like kennel cough, make sure to follow any medical care instructions closely

If you notice anything unusual (changes in eating, drinking, bathroom inconsistency or behavior), message the foster phone line 347-474-9114

  1. Communication and Updates
  • Weekly Updates: Keep in touch and provide updates on the puppy’s progress, health, and behavior. You must complete weekly foster check-ins surveys that will be sent via text throught surveymonkey
  • Report Health or Behavior Concerns: If the puppy shows signs of illness or concerning behavior, please message our foster number 347-474-9114 for guidance.
  1. Preparing for Adoption
  • Basic Training: Teaching basic commands (like “sit” and “come”) can help the puppy’s transition to a forever home. Use short, positive sessions to introduce commands.
  • Photos and Personality Notes: Take photos and give us updates on their personality so we can find the perfect home for them!

By following this routine and giving the puppies consistent care, you’ll help them grow into well-adjusted dogs ready for their future homes!

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY: Please call foster phone line and leave a message 347-474-9114

Adult Dog Guidelines

Adult dogs often come from a variety of backgrounds and may be adjusting to new routines, environments, or recovering from stress, trauma, or illness. A consistent, loving routine helps them decompress and prepare for adoption. Please follow the guidelines below to ensure a safe, healthy, and positive foster experience.

  1. Safety and Environment
  • Secure Indoors: Keep the foster dog indoors when unsupervised. They should have a secure, quiet space (like a crate, playpen, or gated room) where they can feel safe.
  • Supervised Outdoor Time: Only take them outside for potty breaks and approved walks. Use a leash and harness at all times unless you’re in a secure, fenced area.
  • Dog-Proofing: Remove hazards like cords, household cleaners, or accessible human food. Block off rooms as needed.
  1. Health and Hygiene
  • Vet Visits & Meds: Keep all vet appointments as scheduled. Let us know immediately if you’re unable to attend. Follow all medication instructions carefully.
  • Clean Environment: Wash dog bedding weekly and clean food/water bowls daily. Vacuum hair and sanitize surfaces regularly.
  • Monitor Symptoms: Watch for signs of illness: vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, nasal discharge, limping, appetite loss, or unusual behavior.
  1. Feeding and Nutrition
  • Feed as Directed: Adult dogs are usually fed twice a day—morning and evening. Only use the food provided or approved by the rescue.
  • Treats in Moderation: You may offer dog-safe treats (especially for training), but avoid table scraps or unfamiliar foods.
  • Fresh Water: Ensure access to clean, fresh water at all times.
  1. Socialization and Enrichment
  • Safe Socializing: Introduce new experiences slowly. Use positive reinforcement during interactions with new people, sounds, or indoor environments.
  • No Dog Parks or Off-Leash Areas: Unless specifically approved, do not take your foster to public areas with unknown dogs.
  • Mental Stimulation: Offer enrichment toys like KONGs, puzzle feeders, or safe chew toys to prevent boredom.
  • Training Time: Short daily training sessions using positive reinforcement help build confidence and teach basic manners.
  1. Potty Breaks & Daily Cleaning
  • Potty Routine: Take the dog out for bathroom breaks regularly—typically every 4–8 hours for most adult dogs.
  • Expect Adjustments: Some adult dogs may need time to adjust to a new potty routine or learn house rules.
  • Clean Messes Promptly: Use pet-safe cleaners to remove odors and prevent re-marking.
  • Tidy Living Space: Shake out bedding, wipe down crates, and sweep/vacuum hair and debris daily.
  1. Handling and Boundaries
  • Gentle, Calm Handling: Go slow—especially at first. Some adult dogs may be fearful or reactive due to past trauma
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overwhelm the dog with too many people or stimuli. Allow them to decompress and approach at their own pace.
  • Supervise Closely: Keep an eye on interactions with children, other pets, and during playtime to ensure safety.
  1. Routine and Sleep
  • Consistent Schedule: Adult dogs thrive on predictability. Keep walks, meals, and rest times on a regular routine.
  • Rest Time: Most dogs sleep 12–14 hours a day. Allow downtime in a quiet spot, especially after walks or training
  • Bed Setup: Provide a comfortable, clean space for sleeping—ideally in a low-traffic area of your home.

General Handling Principles (All Animals)

  • Move calmly and predictably. Sudden movements or loud voices can frighten animals and trigger defensive behavior.
  • Approach at their level. Avoid looming over an animal; crouch or sit nearby and allow them to initiate contact when possible.
  • Use positive reinforcement. Treats, praise, and gentle touch help create positive associations.
  • Respect body language. Stop immediately if the animal shows signs of stress (growling, hissing, tail tucked, ears back, stiff body).
  • Never use force. No scruffing (except in emergencies), alpha-rolling, tail pulling, muzzle grabbing, or punitive corrections.
  • Ensure safety first. When unsure, use barriers, leashes, carriers, or towels to minimize risk to both the animal and handler.

Handling Dogs

Approaching a Dog

  • Allow the dog to come to you; do not reach over their head.
  • Turn your body slightly sideways (less threatening stance).
  • Offer a closed fist or open palm to sniff before petting.

Lifting & Physical Handling

  • Small dogs: Support chest and hindquarters; hold close to your body.
  • Medium/large dogs: Encourage them into position using treats; avoid lifting unless medically necessary.
  • Post-surgery or medical cases: Follow veterinarian instructions; use harnesses or slings as directed.

Leashing & Walking

  • Use a well-fitted harness; avoid pulling or jerking the leash.
  • For fearful dogs, clip leash indoors before going outside.
  • During walks, maintain safe distance from unknown dogs or triggers.

Special Considerations

  • Fearful dogs: Move slowly, avoid direct eye contact, and allow escape routes.
  • High-energy dogs: Provide enrichment before handling (sniffing games, chew items).
  • Resource-guarding: Never forcibly remove food, toys, or chews; do gradual trade-up training if needed.

Simple Behavior & Handling Tips for Shy or Fearful Dogs

Common Diseases in Foster Puppies/Dogs

  1. Kennel Cough (Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex)
  • What It Is: A highly contagious respiratory infection causing coughing, nasal discharge, and lethargy.
  • Risk: Contagious to unvaccinated dogs; no risk to humans.
  1. Canine Parvovirus (Parvo)
  • What It Is: A severe viral infection causing vomiting, bloody diarrhea, fever, and dehydration.
  • Risk: Deadly for unvaccinated puppies and highly contagious. Does not affect humans.
  1. Distemper
  • What It Is: A viral disease causing respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological symptoms.
  • Risk: Highly contagious to unvaccinated dogs; no risk to humans.
  1. Giardia
  • What It Is: A parasitic infection of the intestines causing diarrhea and dehydration.
  • Risk: Can spread to other pets and humans through contaminated water or feces.
  1. 5. Coccidia
  • What It Is: A parasite that infects the intestines, causing diarrhea, weight loss, and dehydration.
  • Risk: Contagious to other dogs through fecal contamination.

Prevention Tips

  • Quarantine new fosters from resident pets for at least 10-14 days.
  • Vaccinate resident pets.
  • Practice Hygiene: Wash hands, clean surfaces, and avoid sharing pet supplies.
  • Use Preventatives: Treat for fleas, ticks, and worms as recommended.