|
Puppy Care Home
|
|
Page 2 of 3 When to go to the bathroomIt is best to keep feeding and walk times generally consistent. Most of us do this naturally due to our already structured schedules during the week, but it is best to try to keep the schedule close on the weekend too. This consistency will encourage self control in your puppy. Dogs can “hold it” for up to 13 hours, and sometimes longer, if necessary. You should try to let your puppy outdoors only at times when you are ordinarily home to do so. Ideally, have your puppy sleep in a room with people. It will be inclined to learn your sleeping times and there will be less accidents and late night wake ups. Use a puppy bed or blanket for your puppy to sleep in, and most will learn to sleep through the night. Punishing mistakesWell established training methods suggest grabbing your puppy, sticking his nose in the mess, and punishing him or her. However, many now believe this is not necessary and may even be harmful. Alternatively, just say grunt and act disgusted and tale puppy out to his or her bathroom area. Leave the puppy there while you clean up. Make sure the puppy cannot see you cleaning up. Some dogs apparently enjoy watching their owner clean up and sometimes leave another gift to enjoy the same experience. It is OK to have them watch you clean up after they go in the correct place. Accidents should be cleaned up well enough to eliminate the odor. You would generally strice to accomplish this for your own benefit, but it also makes it less likely the puppy will again soil the same spot. There are some great spot cleaners available at the grocery with simple instructions. Your puppy is part of the familyDogs are social animals by nature, one reason they are such GREAT pets. Being part of the pack is at the top of their priorities. Whether you have a large family or it is just you and the puppy, to be happy the puppy must feel secure about his her place in the group or pack. When you watch play, you can see them already deciding who is going to be the alpha or pack leader. Something very much like this play fighting is happening between your puppy and the rest of the family as well, although most people don’t realize it.What puppies need most is a master they can depend on. At least one person in your family must become such a master. Dogs do not understand the concept of friends or equals. Somebody has to be boss. More dominant puppies will try to be boss, challenging your authority. A more submissive puppy may spend its entire life fretting and worrying, never sure what is expected. Everything usually works out just fine. Your puppy will eventually find its place in the family. If on you have a overly assertive or submissive puppy there are some things you should consider.
|
|
|
|
