PUPPIES
The golden rule for puppies is: never let them do anything when young
that you would not want them doing as an adult.
It may seem funny that this tiny scrap of fur growls when you are playing
or trying to take something from it but it’s not so funny six months
later when its teeth are three times the size and it bites you!
FIRST THINGS
You must decide before your puppy comes home what your house rules are. Where
will puppy sleep, where will he stay when you go out, what times will you
feed him, will he be allowed on the beds or furniture?
Your puppy ideally should not be allowed on the beds or furniture but
if you must, only let him on at your command and he must get off when you
say so. If he gets on at any other time, make him get off immediately even
if you were about ask him anyway.
Whatever your rules are, apply them from the very beginning and stick
to them. Don’t let the puppy off because he is ‘still settling
in’. The first few weeks are crucial in setting the relationship you
will have in the future.
SLEEPING
Owners always have the idea that you should lock your puppy away from you
at night because you might spoil it or never be able to leave it. In fact
your puppy will settle much quicker if you allow it to have a basket in your
bedroom. If you are determined that it must be excluded then make sure you
leave it with a quiet word of praise each evening and a small reward of a
dog biscuit. If you start off with the puppy sleeping with you at first and
then want to move it, just gradually move its bed or blanket further
away each evening until it is where you want it. Some puppies as they get
older and more confident decide themselves that they will sleep somewhere
else anyway. A crate or cage is a great way giving the puppy
a secure sleeping den. Leaving a radio or tv can help too.
SEPARATION
Remember that for a dog of any age being made to stay apart from its pack
is a form of punishment. Wild packs chase away any dog that behaves badly.
This is why dogs react so strongly to being left alone. It is important that
you start getting your dog used to this quickly. At first leave your puppy
alone for just a few seconds, leaving him in a room, quietly praising him
and giving him a biscuit before closing the door. Stand just outside but
do not shout to him under any circumstances. For the first few times just
count to ten then return. Again quietly praise him. It is important not to
go overboard when leaving or returning to your dog as this can make him more
anxious.
To reinforce the idea that he is not punished give him a small
treat for the first few weeks until he is happier with the idea. It is a
good idea to practice whist he is distracted, say at feeding times or when
he is playing with something. Gradually build up the time he is alone until
you can leave him for at least half an hour without him getting upset. It
is necessary to do this frequently throughout the day to get him settled
as soon as possible.
SOCIALISATION
The first twelve weeks in a puppies life are crucial to its behaviour
in the future. Most people get dogs when they are around six to ten weeks
so there isn’t long left to show your puppy all the things it need to
see. Dogs that do not have enough contact with people, other dogs and animals
during this time can have lifelong problems.
Try to encourage reliable friends and relatives to come and see your puppy
often. They must abide by your house rules, but can handle and play with
the puppy as much as possible. Get friends who have safe and reliable dogs
to visit. It is vital that your dog learns dog etiquette and respect for
older animals. It is also a good idea to introduce your puppy to dog proof
cats, again to teach respect and tolerance.
GENERAL
Take your dog to as many places as possible. Teach him manners in other peoples
houses. Take him to a reputable training club as soon as you are able. Some
clubs start with puppy socialisation at twelve to fourteen weeks of age.
You cannot have again this period when your dog is so receptive and eager
to please, so make the most of it! Do not think because you
have had a few dogs before you don't need classes. A class is the place to
socialise, not just learn obedience. Most dogs with problems never went to
classes because their owners thought they could do it themselves.
Remember this is general information only, if you have any problems,
seek professional help.
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