Puzzling Over Puppy Changes

I noticed the change in the size of our new puppy. She's getting bigger. Also, we no longer tie her down all day but allow her to explore the environment. I noticed that she has a big tummy and her skeleton structure was showing on her side and wondered if it was normal. The next thing I did was to google and ask for answers.

I'm very interested to learn if this body condition is healthy for a growing puppy. When I searched online for information, there were differing opinions on what's considered normal for puppy development. Some sites stated visible ribs are not a concern, while others suggested it may signify malnutrition.

This has made me very curious to understand more about expected growth patterns. What are the established norms for weight gain, body condition scoring, and nutritional requirements in puppies? I looked through some developmental charts, but still have lingering questions. It seems there can be significant variation even among those of the same breed.

I'm intrigued to keep observing our puppy's food intake, energy levels, weight changes and body condition. During our next veterinary visit, I may inquire for professional guidance on monitoring her growth. As a new puppy owner, I have so much to learn about canine health and developmental milestones. My goal is simply to raise a happy, healthy and thriving pup! I look forward to discovering more as she matures.

Our puppy is so playful and silly. Whenever I get home, she immediately rolls onto her back, paws up in the air. She seems to want me to rub her belly and think it's a big game. I've read about this posture in dogs - that it shows they are very comfortable and trusting with their human companion. It makes sense, since her belly is a sensitive area and she willingly exposes it when greeting me.

One thing I find so endearing about our puppy is that she seems to smile at times. When I come home and pet her, she'll look up at me with her mouth open and her tongue lolling out to the side. People always say dogs can't smile, but I swear that's what it looks like!

Her tail wags excitedly when she does this too. I wonder if the smiling is her way of expressing happiness to see me. Or is it just a funny coincidence when dogs open their mouths to pant at the same time we are interacting with them? Either way, it melts my heart.

I did some reading about the mechanics of how dogs express emotions differently than humans. Apparently their facial muscles don't allow them to make certain expressions we relate to as smiling or frowning. But they still convey joy, excitement and contentment through tail wagging and body language.

Still though, every time my pup grins up at me with that silly, open-mouthed look, I can't help smiling right back at her! I'll keep believing my pup is truly happy to be with me, whether that dog "smile" is on purpose or not. Her joy is unmistakable, even across species. That's part of what makes our friendship so special and curious to me on this puppy parenting adventure!

As you can see, being a new puppy parent is making me really quite curious about many aspects of her growth and development. I have so many questions swirling around about her changing physical features, teething patterns, breed traits, appropriate weight and body condition, and more.

I'm sure along the way I'll have many more wonders about her health and development too. I aim to provide her with the best possible care, so expanding my knowledge feels important. For now, I'll content myself with observing her closely, reading about puppy care. There is so much for me discover on this rewarding journey of raising a happy, healthy pup.

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