I am a Puppy
I will chew everything: This is how I explore and learn about the world.
Even HUMAN children put things in their mouths. It's up to you to guide me
what’s mine to chew and what is not.
I need a wee: I cannot hold my bladder for longer than 1-2 hours. I
cannot feel that I need to poop until it's actually beginning to come out. I
cannot vocalize nor tell you that I need to go, and I cannot have bowel and
bladder control until about 6-9 months. Do not punish me if you do not let me
out for 3 hours and I tinkle. It is YOUR fault. As a puppy it is wise to
remember that I NEED to potty after eating, sleeping, playing, drinking and
every 2-3 hours in addition. If you want me to sleep through the night, then do
not give me water after 7-8 pm . A crate will help me to learn to housebreak
easier, and will avoid you being mad at me. I am a puppy, accidents WILL happen,
please be patient with me, in time I will learn.
I like to play: I will run around and chase imaginary monsters, and chase
your feet and your toes and attack you, and chase balls, other pets and small
kids. It is play, it's what I do. Do not be mad at me or expect me to be sedate,
mellow or sleep all day. If my high energy level is too much for you, maybe you
could consider an older rescue from a dogs home or shelter. My play is
beneficial, use your wisdom to guide me in my play with appropriate toys, and
activities like chasing a rolling ball, or gentle tug games, or plenty of chew
toys for me. If I nip you too hard, talk to me in 'dog talk' by giving a loud
yelp as this is how my mother used to communicate with me and I will understand.
If I get too rough simply ignore me for a few minutes or put me in my crate with
an appropriate chew toy.
I don't like being hit: Hopefully you will not yell, hit, strike, kick or
beat an 8 month old child so please do not do the same to me. I am delicate, and
also very impressionable. If you treat me harshly now I will grow up learning to
fear being hit, spanked, kicked or beaten. Instead please guide me with
encouragement and wisdom. For instance if I am chewing something wrong say 'NO
CHEW' and hand me a toy I CAN chew. Better still, pick ANYTHING up that you do
not want me to get into. I can't tell the difference between your old sock and
your new sock, or your old shoe and your new £300 Nikes.
|
|
