After reading this, you’ll probably never think about puppy training in the same way again. Hopefully you’ll start to look at training issues through your puppy’s eyes – and that’s when you’ll start to understand them and begin to understand …
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On a past entry we talked about getting a new cat (Owning A Domestic Cat 101: Selecting A New Cat Or Kitten), and we also made an entire series on how to own a new puppy; but we never mentioned how to pick the perfect dog for you. That’s why we are here today to share our best tips for adopting a new puppy or dog.
When you are planning to adopt a dog, there are some very important points to keep in mind to make sure that you are delighted with your new dog. They can mean the difference between regretting your decision and having a wonderful new friend whom you will enjoy and cherish.
Adopting a new dog can be a great experience. Owning a dog can greatly enhance your life. When you do some research and apply common sense, you are taking the first step toward acquiring and enjoying a brand-new friend.
One mistake to avoid is buying a dog on the spur of the moment. You may see a dog in a pet shop, or read an ad in the newspaper, and decide that you absolutely must have that dog. A hasty decision in purchasing a new dog is never a good idea. Instead, you should read through this book, learn all there is to know about the breed of dog you are thinking about, and decide if he will fit well into your life and your home.
A second mistake is to underestimate the cost of a new dog. Whether you choose an expensive purebred or a mixed breed, buying a dog is far from being the only cost involved. Your dog will need food and other supplies, and regular visits to the veterinarian. As you want your dog to always be in the fine condition as when you first bought him, you need to know that you can afford his upkeep.
Another factor in disappointment is trying to recreate a relationship you had with a dog in your childhood or youth. You may be tempted to think that all dogs of this particular breed are exactly the same. You can avoid disappointment by realizing that every dog is an individual, just like people. Your new dog’s personality and needs may be much different from the dog you had before, even if they are the same breed.
You will see how different a dog is from another once you train them, it won’t only teach you this, but it also help you connect with your little buddy on a different level of confidence and love: Puppy 101: A beautiful journey through dog training
You should also avoid getting a dog solely because a member of your family wants one. Regardless of which person is actually in charge of the dog’s daily upkeep and maintenance, when a dog lives with a family they are a part of the family. Only if you know that they will be welcomed by everyone should you purchase it and bring it home.
If you have never owned a dog before, your first dog can be a pleasure. It does mean, however, that you need to do your research well in advance of making your final decision. You must know what to expect, and that you are ready to become a dog owner.
When you think about comparing breeds of dogs, their size and appearance may be the first things to come to mind. There are many other factors involved in choosing the breed of dog that is right for you.
Comparing breeds involves considering your family’s needs as well as your prospective pet’s. For example, some breeds are generally good with small children while others are not. If there are children in your household, choosing a breed of dog which is known for gentleness and playfulness is wiser than choosing one that is tougher or aloof. It is much better to make a wise decision about a breed than to expect your new dog to conform to your household.
As breeds of dogs have their own personality traits and characteristics, you should choose the best match for yourself and your family. You may be thinking of a pet who will be a good guard dog, one that will be your companion, or one who loves to frolic and play. When you make note of your expectations, it will be easier to find the breed best matched to you.
Another important point to consider when comparing breeds are health issues. As many purebreds are much more susceptible to developing various types of health problems, knowing which issues pertain to the breed you are considering can help you to avoid heartache and costly veterinarian expenses. You should know what to expect from the particular breed before you make your final decision.
Some breeds require more upkeep than others. Whether it is a matter of frequent shedding, or bathing more regularly than others, you can narrow your choices down to the breeds which best match your ability to take care of a new dog. It is also a good idea to consider how much food and other supplies he will need on a regular basis. We have an extended talk about this last part in Healthy Dog: The Raw Dog Diet, Food Allergies And Vitamins
When you have taken all of these points into consideration, there is an additional factor which will also help you to choose the breed that is best for you: you want a dog that you will love, and enjoy spending time with for many years to come. You may have a particular breed in mind, or you may be waiting to find the right one. When you keep in mind that you and your new dog will establish a mutually-beneficial relationship, you will find the ideal breed of dog to invite into your life.
Whether you have your heart set on a particular breed of dog or are waiting to find one which seems appealing, there is another option for you to consider. A mixed breed may be exactly the kind of dog you want.
Contrary to common opinion, there is nothing substandard about mixed breed dogs. Not only do they make ideal pets, they are also quality animals. If you have not yet made up your mind about a specific breed, or are open to other possibilities, you might want to think about adopting a mixed breed dog.
There are some important benefits to mixed breeds. First, logically, a mixed breed dog will almost always be much less expensive than its purebred counterpart. If you want a delightful pet which does not break your budget, a mixed breed dog may be a good option for you.
Second, mixed breed dogs do not generally have the health complications often associated with many purebred dogs. If you choose a mixed breed, it is more likely that he will remain healthier, long into his older years.
There are a number of places where you can acquire a mixed breed dog. If you have not yet reached a decision about the kind of dog you want, you can also look around to see what is available. You can find advertisements for mixed breed dogs in nearly any newspaper, or you can visit your local animal shelter. Many people advertise dogs free-of-charge or at low prices when they are moving, or for other reasons. Animal shelters have a surplus of mixed breed dogs. Many animal shelters include spaying or neutering, deworming, and canine immunizations for dogs who are adopted.
The most important reason to get a mixed breed of dog: As people tend to prefer purebred dogs, there are large numbers of mixed breed dogs who need homes. When you consider adopting a mixed breed dog, you can give a wonderful dog a new home of his own. In return, your mixed breed pet will be the light of your life and a source of joy.
A successful adoption means being reasonable about your own expectations, and about what you can offer to your new pet. You will have the best results if you consider these expectations before you make your final decision about adopting a dog.
First, you should think about what you expect from the dog you want to adopt. The role he will play in your life is one factor. Are you looking for a dog who will guard your home and family, one who will be your buddy, or a dog who will get along well with your children and other pets in your home? When you have the answers to these kinds of questions, it will help you to decide on the dog that is best for you.
You also need to know the expectations you have regarding your new pet’s personality, temperament, and character. You may be looking for a dog who has a boisterous personality and is very active, or a dog who is calm and quiet. These factors also influence the kind of dog you should adopt.
As expectations are a two-way street, you also need to think about what you can offer to your new pet. You may have an abundance of free time to spend with your dog, or a busy schedule where the amount of time you can devote to your dog will be rather limited. Although all dogs need their owners’ time, some are more demanding than others. This includes play time, and time which you must put into your dog’s upkeep. The dog you choose should fit into your lifestyle without many adjustments on either his part or yours.
The lifestyle factor is relevant to your family, also. Which person will be taking care of the dog on a regular basis is one example. Whether he will be a family dog, or primarily one person’s special pet, the responsibilities for his care should be discussed and agreed upon before you adopt him. In some families, giving a new pet to a child is often seen as a good way for youngsters to learn about responsibility. However, whether your child is a toddler or a teen, it is probably unwise to give them full responsibility for this new pet.
Although developing a sense of responsibility, and developing a relationship with a dog can both be good experiences for children, too much emphasis on responsibility may lead to them resenting their dog and not taking proper care of it. It is important to be reasonable with how much you can expect from the child.
The best way to raise a puppy is with positive dog training. Develop a beautiful bond with your animal partner and learn how to build your relationship on confidence and love: Time for puppy preschool: Get the basics for positive dog training
If your family frequently takes family vacations, or if you often go away on business trips, these factors need to be considered. Whether you plan to take your dog with you on vacation, or must leave him behind when you travel, making decisions in advance about how he will fit into your lifestyle can save time, confusion, and even money, later on.
The financial obligations of a dog are important factors. Veterinarian bills, dog food, and other routine parts of dog maintenance should be thought through well in advance of adopting a dog. The upkeep and maintenance of some dogs is more costly than that of others. You must know that you can easily afford him. You would not want a high-maintenance dog if you are on a limited budget, nor would you want unforeseen expenses after you have adopted him and brought him home.
A successful adoption includes being reasonable about your expectations. You need to know what you expect from him, and what he can reasonably expect from you. When you put a little time into thinking about these factors before you adopt a dog, you will be more likely to be completely satisfied with the dog you choose.
If your new pet will be living with your entire family, devoting some time into discussing these subjects with your family will be beneficial to everyone concerned. It will reduce the chance of unforeseen surprises, and result in the adoption being a positive experience for your new pet and every member of your household. He will truly be a welcome addition to your family.
You may not have thought of networking as being an important part of adopting a dog. There are a number of reasons why networking can make the adoption more successful. It can help you in choosing the right dog, and enhance the experience of being a dog owner.
Before you actually adopt a dog, you can learn a lot about the breed by networking with people who already own one. While there are many good ways to learn about dogs, nothing beats the first-hand experience of a dog owner. You can network with owners, either in person or online, and get very positive results. Most dog owners will love to share information with you, as well as personal stories about life with their pet. You can gain a wealth of valuable information and input from dog owners, and you may even make some new friends.
Networking is also good after you have adopted your new dog and taken him home. In many instances, the best place to get advice and the answers to questions is from people who have owned a dog for a long time. They can be the ideal source of information, as well as friendships based on your common interest.
No matter what kind of dog you are considering, it is likely that you can find online forums and clubs devoted to your particular breed of dog and their owners. In some regions, you may even be able to find clubs in person not far from where you live.
Whether you have already adopted a dog, or are still considering all of the possibilities, the firsthand information you receive by networking with other dog owners will be beyond compare. It should definitely be in your plans when you are adopting a new pet.
A concerned dog owner would want to be sure their pet is healthy, take a look at this: Dog food for puppies: Why is it so important to get the best food for dogs
The more you know about the dog you adopt, the happier you will be about your decision. Getting the facts by researching the breed you have chosen is an essential step in being satisfied with your new pet. There are some key points which you should look for when you are researching a breed.
If you have decided to adopt a purebred dog, you may have much or little interest in his pedigree. However, even if you do not consider it to be an important factor, you should still gain all of the information. You can request a copy of the dog’s pedigree papers, which should include all of the details about his parentage and bloodline. As many breeders of purebred dogs own the parents of the puppies they have for sale, visiting your new dog’s parents can be a positive experience.
It is a good idea to be wary of breeders or individual dog owners who state that their dog is a purebred but do not have papers as proof of this. While they may be completely honest, the possibility that they are not is something to keep in mind before you agree to adopt the dog.
When you are researching the breed you have chosen, the main points are to help you in deciding if this is the right breed for you, and what to expect from owning your new pet. You can research on the internet, by talking to owners and breeders, and by visiting the section about dogs in your local library.
Learning about the history of your breed can be an enlightening experience. Whether you have interest in such factors as where the breed originated or not, there is valuable information to be found in the breed’s history. One example is the breed that has been bred for a specific purpose. Not only will you find this interesting, it will also help you to understand your dog’s temperament, attitude, and personality.
What can you find in the history of a breed? The facts you come up with may be astounding! The dog you adopt may be the descendant of dogs owned by royalty, dogs which were primarily used as work animals, or dogs which were chosen as guardians of their masters. The more you know about where your breed came from, the more you will understand how the pet you choose fits into your life today.
Researching a breed includes learning about the standards for this particular breed. Even if you are thinking no further than gaining a good companion, you may want the very best example of your breed. A little research will provide information on the factors which constitute top standards in color and markings, size, body tone, and other physical characteristics. The highest quality dog will meet these standards.
As you have already read in brief, purebred dogs can come with a variety of health issues. Before you adopt a purebred, researching the health issues commonly associated with your breed can help you to decide if you want to take this risk, and to be prepared in advance. You need to know whether your breed is prone to developing health conditions from bone problems to cancer, and how you will deal with such conditions if they do occur.
You want the experience of owning a dog to be positive for both yourself and your new pet. When you do a little research ahead of time, the experience can be a good one indeed! You can gain a better understanding of your dog before he becomes a part of your family. When you have all of this important knowledge in advance, you can focus on enjoying many years together with your new pet.
Depending on your dog’s breed, they will be easier or harder to train. You might want to take a look at this too: Time for puppy preschool Part 2: Training Your New Puppy
No matter how much time you put into learning about the breed you have chosen, there is an additional point which you should consider: while there are many factors common to a particular breed, each dog is still an individual. You can gain a fair amount of understanding of what the breed is like, but getting to know your own dog means going a little further.
The best way to get to know your dog is with in-person visits before you make your final decision to adopt him. If the breeder you have chosen lives fairly close to you, or if you are able to travel, the time you put into this will be invaluable. When you can meet, visit, and spend time with a dog, you will be able to determine if he is the right “fit” for you.
Spending just a small amount of time in your dog’s company will help you to see what his personality and behavior are like. You may find that you both are a good match immediately, that you grow to adore each other, or that there are clashes which prod you to decide that this is not the right dog for you. If you have the opportunity to do so, meeting and spending time with the dog before you adopt will be very beneficial to you both.
Please feel encouraged to say hello – we’ll be happy to help with any questions you might have, and if you’d like to comment on our site, products or service, we’d love to hear from you!
This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
Keeping your fur baby healthy means fewer visits to the vet. Deworming is crucial if you want to keep your puppy parasite-free.
Fortunately, deworming is a relatively hassle-free process that can be accomplished with just a few steps.
Once you have dewormed your puppy, you’ll probably want to know how long your dog will continue to poop worms. Puppies will typically poop worms for 2-3 days after they have been dewormed.
OUR EXPERIENCE: Linus had worms when we brought him home. I can confirm that he stopped pooping worms about 2-3 days after taking deworming medication.
However, you may still find some worms in your puppy’s excrement up to a week after deworming. This is completely normal and should not alarm you.
Worms are a common problem for dogs at any stage of life. As a pet parent, it’s important to understand just how to deal with these pesky parasites. To find out everything you need to know about deworming your puppy, keep reading!
Please contact your veterinarian if your puppy has worms or if you plan on deworming your puppy. This site is for entertainment purposes only and you should consult with your veterinarian if you have any health-related concerns about your dog or puppy.
Puppies are not just adorable, they are also curious. This means there are plenty of ways in which your fur baby can become infected with worms.
It is fairly common for worms to be transmitted from mothers to their puppies. Parasites like roundworms can be transmitted while puppies are still in utero.
They can also be transmitted through a mother’s milk to her puppies. While your puppy is nursing, it can easily contract worms if its mother is infected.
Puppies like to taste and lick everything. This is just how dogs explore the world around them. Unfortunately, this also means they ingest plenty of dirt.
Grass, soil, and debris are all possible carriers of worm eggs and larvae. When an infected animal poops, it can leave parasite eggs on various surfaces.
QUICK TIP: This is just one reason why it’s so important to pick up your pup’s poop (lessen the spread of parasites). If you’re looking for good poop bags our favorite are the Earth Rated Poop bags.
Once your puppy comes into contact with these surfaces, it may ingest the worm larvae or eggs and become infected.
Parasites spread easily from one animal to the next. If you have multiple pets in your household, it is important to ensure all of them are dewormed regularly.
Worm eggs can spread from one pet to another through feces, contaminated food, or contaminated surfaces. It is important to keep your pup from ingesting excrement from other animals. This is the easiest way your dog can become infected.
Fleas can carry worm larvae. This means that if your puppy gets infested with fleas, they are also at risk for a worm infestation.
Keep a lookout for fleas and have a regular grooming schedule to ensure that your puppy is protected against these pests.
QUICK TIP: All of our guide dog puppies are on flea medication. We’ve used topical and ingestible flea meds. We currently give our pups Nexgard Chewables to keep the fleas and ticks away.
Puppies like to groom themselves. However, in the process of licking their fur, they may ingest parasite eggs.
As long as your puppy is interacting with the environment, they are bound to come into contact with dirt. It’s therefore important to keep your pooch bathed and clean. This will minimize the risk of your pup carrying worm eggs or larvae on their coat.
QUICK RECOMMENDATION: We bathe our puppies about once a month using Burt’s Bees Puppy Shampoo.
Catching a worm infestation early on can save you lots of trouble down the road. Untreated infections can lead to health complications so it is vital to keep a lookout for the following warning signs.
When your puppy has worms, you are likely to see them in her excrement. When parasites accumulate in the intestines, some of them will be passed when your dog has a bowel movement.
It is also not uncommon to find worms in your puppy’s vomit if they are infected. Pooping or vomiting worms is one of the key indicators that your puppy is infected. However, not all parasites are visible to the naked eye.
Bloating is a common symptom found in puppies infected with worms. Bloating is especially common in nursing puppies that have contracted parasites from their mother.
Weight loss and stunted growth are symptoms that could point to a parasitic infection. If your puppy is not growing as expected or suddenly starts to lose weight, it’s important to have them checked for worms.
Parasites will interfere with your pup’s ability to absorb nutrients from their food, resulting in weight loss.
Puppies are naturally playful and curious. If you notice that your pooch seems lethargic and weak, you may need to have them checked for worms.
If your pup does not seem to get full, there may be more to it than a voracious appetite. Dogs with worm infestations are constantly hungry and they will eat more than usual.
Despite this increased appetite, you will notice that your puppy does not put on weight as expected. This is another warning sign that your pup may need deworming.
Not all worm infestations will manifest themselves obviously. Your pup may be completely asymptomatic and still have parasites.
This is why it’s important to stick to a regular deworming schedule as recommended by your vet, regardless of whether you see symptoms of infection or not.
Different types of worms could infest your puppy. Some of these parasites can be fatal, so it is important to understand the different types of parasitic worms.
Roundworms are common in puppies. This type of worm is transmitted from mother to puppy in the womb or during nursing.
Some common signs that your puppy has a roundworm infestation are bloating, weight loss, and diarrhea.
Hookworms are small parasites that can nonetheless cause a lot of damage to your puppy’s health. These parasites attach to your puppy’s small intestine and absorb blood and nutrients from the body.
Hookworms can cause anemia, weakness, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, hookworm infestation can be fatal, so early treatment is essential.
Fleas are the most common transmitters of tapeworms. In most cases, a tapeworm infection will be asymptomatic. However, you may notice this type of worm in your dog’s poop.
Whipworms are small, threadlike parasites. They typically infest the large intestines. If your puppy has whipworms, some of the symptoms include malnutrition and anemia. You may also notice that your dog’s poop is bloody.
Whipworms can only be detected microscopically so your vet will need stool samples to diagnose this type of worm. If left untreated, whipworms can be fatal, so speedy treatment is important.
Coccidia worms are common in puppies from puppy mills and pet stores. They rarely affect adult dogs so this type of parasite is mostly a problem for puppies.
Symptoms of coccidia infestations include dehydration and bloody diarrhea.
We brought Linus home from the animal shelter at around 8-10 weeks old. He was lethargic, dehydrated, and anemic. Among other ailments, he was also diagnosed with Coccidia.
There is no need to fret if you find that your puppy’s poo has worms or if your dog is exhibiting other symptoms of worm infestation.
There are plenty of medications available for deworming, and your vet will recommend the best medication for your puppy.
Most dewormers come in the form of tasty tablets to make it easy for your puppy to take them. However, if you have trouble getting your puppy to take the tablet, you can hide it in their treats or food.
Deworming medications are typically broad-spectrum and will be effective against different types of parasitic worms. However, the appropriate dosage for your dog will depend on their body weight, so always consult your vet.
It is recommended that you deworm from the age of two weeks, and every two weeks after that until your dog is three months old.
At this point, you can scale back to deworming monthly until your puppy the six-month mark. After six months, it is recommended that you continue deworming your dog every three months.
Since parasites can be transmitted from mother to puppy, always ensure that you deworm the mother as well. This will ensure that your pup does not get infected through nursing or contact with its mother.
Always remember that deworming only gets rid of existing worms and does not prevent reinfection.
Most deworming treatments work in two to six hours after administration. Some medications will dissolve the worms while some will paralyze them.
Paralyzed worms pass through the intestinal tract and are passed out in your puppy’s poop. This is why you will notice that your puppy poops worms after deworming. This may continue for three days or even longer.
Be careful to dispose of your dog’s excrement properly to get rid of any worm eggs and larvae. Always wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning up dog poop.
Side Effects Of Deworming Your Puppy
Most deworming medications are safe for your puppy. However, your pooch may experience some side effects after deworming.
If your puppy has bloody stool after deworming, this condition is no cause for alarm. This often happens as the worms detach from the intestines. However, if the condition persists for more than three days, consult your vet.
Puppies may experience diarrhea after deworming. This is a result of the inflammation caused by worms unlatching from the intestines. As long as diarrhea doesn’t last for more than a couple of days, your pup should be just fine.
Your pooch may not be its usual playful self after deworming. This is due to the discomfort caused by diarrhea. Make sure you give your pup plenty of water during this time to prevent dehydration.
Worms are part of the doggy experience and at some point, your pup is going to pick up these parasites. However, there are still measures you can take to minimize the risk of infection.
Your puppy will pass worms with their poo after deworming. This happens for up to 3 days after the deworming process.
If you do not dispose of the excrement properly, the eggs in the poop can cause reinfection if your pup comes into contact with them.
Picking up after your dog is not just good for the environment, but it will also help minimize the risk of reinfection.
Dog poo is the biggest carrier of worms and worm eggs, so disposing of it properly is crucial. Potty training your pup will also ensure that dog excrement does not end up in the wrong place.
QUICK RECOMMENDATION: When we’re out and about we use Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags. When we’re at home we use our handy dandy pooper scooper to scoop the poop.
Your puppy can carry parasite eggs in its fur. If you handle your pets and then prepare their food without washing your hands in between, the food can become contaminated. This will lead to constant worm reinfections for your puppy.
Clean hands mean a lower risk of worm eggs getting into your fur baby’s food.
Fleas carry worm eggs and larvae and can easily cause parasitic infections. To keep your puppy safe, make sure you treat your pup and any other pets in the house for fleas.
Regular flea treatments ensure that your puppy will not get infected by worms that are spread by fleas. Also, keep a household flea spray handy to get rid of any fleas in your home.
We’ve used several flea medications to keep our home free of fleas including:
Dogs ingest worms from contaminated food and water. Clean your puppy’s food and water bowls regularly. Any raw foods such as vegetables should be thoroughly washed before being fed to your pup.
QUICK TIP: It’s important to keep your dog bowls clean. We recommend stainless steel dog bowls as they are easiest to keep clean.
Sticking to a regular deworming schedule is important in keeping your puppy healthy. Don’t forget to deworm other pets in the house as well to prevent cross-infection.
Parasites can easily spread from one animal to another, so it is important to have a routine deworming schedule for all of your pets.
After deworming your puppy, expect your puppy to poop worms. This is because the deworming medication paralyzes the worms, which then pass from the intestines into the feces.
You should expect your dog to experience some diarrhea after deworming. This should last for a day or two as the worms get passed out in poop.
A dewormer will start to work between two and six hours after administration. Deworming medications work in different ways, depending on the type you purchase. Some dewormers will dissolve the worms while others will paralyze them.
When the worms are paralyzed, they need to be passed out of the body, so they will be excreted in your puppy’s poop. This is normal.
Tapeworms will be gone within 24 hours after deworming. You may choose a tablet or injectable dewormer. After the process is complete, tapeworms are typically dissolved in the intestines so you will not see any in your puppy’s poop.
Tapeworms are mostly spread by fleas. It is important to keep your puppy free of fleas to minimize the risk of tapeworm infections.
Yes, it is safe to deworm a puppy twice. Puppies are especially vulnerable to parasitic infections. This means that they need to be dewormed frequently to keep them healthy.
You should deworm your puppy at two-week intervals starting from the age of two weeks. Once the puppy is three months old, you should deworm it once a month until the puppy gets to six months of age. After this point, it is recommended that you deworm your dog every three months moving forward.
Yes, after deworming your puppy can eat as usual. There are no particular dietary restrictions required after deworming. However, you may notice that your dog may have a reduced appetite. This is normal after deworming.
Make sure your puppy eats some food and gets sufficient water to prevent dehydration.
QUICK RECOMMENDATION: We currently feed our guide dog puppies Purina Pro Plan Puppy Large Breed.
Yes, deworming a puppy is necessary. Puppies are at high risk for worm infestations. Puppies can contract worms from the mother while in the womb or nursing. This means that even newborn puppies may have worms.
It is important to start deworming your puppy from the age of two weeks and follow up with a regular deworming schedule. Parasites can cause serious health complications in puppies and some cases may even be fatal.
Yes, you can get worms from your puppy. Worms that infect puppies can also infect humans. This means that you need to be careful about hygiene and disposing of your pup’s poop. Worm eggs and larvae in dog poop can stay on grass and soil for extended periods.
Eating contaminated food or water can also lead to infection. It is especially important to keep small children from ingesting anything that may be contaminated with a dog’s fecal matter.
Puppies are adorable, cute, and a joy to have around. However, your pup is at its most delicate when young, so this means it needs extra care. Deworming is one way to make sure that your pup stays happy and healthy.
With the right medication and deworming schedule, worms will not pose a serious health risk for your pooch. Be sure to consult your vet for the appropriate dosage and deworming schedule for your dog.
Has your puppy ever had worms?
Did you have to get him dewormed?
Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below.
UPDATE: This post was originally published on June 22nd, 2021. We periodically update blog posts with new experiences and information to keep them as relevant as possible.
Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.
This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
It may not seem like it, but your puppy’s first year will fly by, and that tiny pup will grow into an adult dog in the blink of an eye.
Transitioning from three to two meals a day is one of the biggest milestones in your pup’s life and has a huge impact on their overall health.
Knowing when to switch a puppy to two meals a day will put your pup on the right track to becoming a happy and healthy adult.
When my dog was still a puppy, I heard different advice about how often and how much he should eat. Some said once a day, others advised twice a day.
I was even told to keep the bowl full at all times and let my pup eat at will (we did this with our first puppy, Linus because he lied to graze).
To be honest, none of this made any sense, and I wasn’t willing to risk my pup’s health and well-being based on other people’s opinions.
I’ve come to find that puppies are a lot like human babies: They need several smaller meals throughout the day and do best on a strict schedule.
While all dogs are individuals, all puppies should start at four meals a day and gradually transition to two meals a day during their first year of life.
In this article, I’ll tell you why a regular feeding schedule is so important and when to feed a puppy two meals a day. Keep on reading to learn everything you should know about your puppy’s nutritional needs.
QUICK RECOMMENDATION: Our guide dog puppies are currently eating Purina Pro Plan Puppy Large Breed Formula. Remember our guide pups are mostly larger breed dogs – Labs, Goldens, and German Shepherds. This dog food may not be best for your pup.
Bringing a new puppy home is a huge responsibility! Not only do you need to survive the puppy’s first night at home, but you also have to create and stick to a regular feeding schedule from the get-go.
A good feeding schedule and high-quality food are essential for your puppy’s growth and development and have a huge influence on how healthy your pooch will be when they grow up.
Free feeding and low-quality puppy food put your puppy at risk of becoming overweight and developing serious health problems such as diabetes and musculoskeletal conditions.
Therefore, it’s vital that you know what the best feeding schedule is for your puppy, based on their life stage.
All puppies go through the same developmental stages during their first year of life, but some pups can transition to two meals a day sooner than others.
This largely depends on your pup’s breed and size. Smaller breeds need less time to develop and grow than larger and giant dogs.
Consequently, a small breed dog such as a Chihuahua may start eating two meals a day way sooner than a giant Great Dane puppy.
Generally speaking, you should switch a puppy to two meals a day when they hit the six-month mark. This is a general rule of thumb.
As you know, all dogs are individuals, and you should always talk with your breeder or veterinarian before changing your puppy’s food or feeding schedule.
With that said, I’ll give you a general timeline for what your puppy’s feeding schedule should look like during the first year of its life.
QUICK RECOMMENDATION: We’ve found the best bowls to use with our puppies are simple no-tip stainless steel dog bowls. We’ve had these exact same bowls since our first puppy Linus who we rescued from the shelter back in January 2005!
Very young puppies, like human babies, need to eat several times throughout the day to stay energized and grow properly. Most puppies are already weaned from their mothers by the age of eight weeks when they are sent to their new owners and forever homes.
Whether you purchased or adopted your puppy, the breeder or the staff from the shelter should have told you the brand of puppy food your pup is used to eating.
If there is no dire need to change your puppy’s food to another formula, you should continue feeding the same food after you bring the pup home.
At this stage, puppies grow fast and need a lot of food and frequent meals to grow and develop properly. You should feed four equally spaced meals and make it a point that meals are always given at the same times of the day.
Sticking to a regular feeding schedule will help you immensely in potty training your puppy, since they need to eliminate 10 to 15 minutes after eating a meal.
By keeping a strict feeding schedule, you can predict when your puppy will need to go outside and give them an opportunity to relieve themselves in the designated potty area.
From six to 12 weeks of age, you should be feeding a complete and balanced puppy food that is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of a developing puppy.
When eating commercial puppy food, puppies can transition to unmoistened, dry puppy food by the age of nine to 10 weeks for large breed pups and by 12 to 13 weeks for small breeds.
If you are considering a homemade or raw diet, talk with your vet or canine nutritionist first. Preparing your pup’s food takes a lot of time and planning to get it right, and your pooch may be better off eating commercial puppy food.
QUICK RECOMMENDATION: If you are considering a different type of food for your puppy you might want to consider fresh dog food. Our current favorite is The Farmer’s Dog.
At the three-month mark, you should consider cutting your puppy’s meals from four to three meals a day. Ideally, aim for feeding your puppy equally spaced breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the same times every day.
While your growing puppy will be eating significantly larger meals than when you first brought them home, it will still need high-calorie puppy food.
Most dogs start to lose their trademark chubby puppy appearance when they are around 12 weeks old. This is one of the signs you should look for when decreasing your pup’s feedings from four to three meals a day.
If your pup still has a potbelly and looks chubby at this stage, continue feeding four meals until its body starts to lose its puppy pudge.
And if you think that your pup is too chubby or, by contrast, too lanky, schedule an appointment with your vet and have your pooch examined. The solution may be as simple as tweaking your pup’s portion sizes and feeding more or less food for each meal.
When they reach six months of age, puppies enter an adolescent stage, and their nutritional needs change. So, if you were wondering when you should switch your puppy to two meals a day, now is the right time!
By the time puppies reach six months of age, they stop growing and developing at a rapid pace, and they no longer need as much food.
However, most will continue eating puppy food. Still, you should talk to your vet and see what the best food would be for your pup based on their individual nutritional needs.
Bear in mind, that most veterinarians recommend spaying and neutering puppies at this age (although we tend to wait longer based on this recent study for spaying and neutering), since this is the time most males become sexually mature.
If you decide to spay or neuter your pup, know that the procedure affects your dog’s nutritional needs.
Desexed puppies and dogs have lower energy requirements than their intact counterparts and need a different type of food. Consult your vet about switching your pooch from puppy food to adult maintenance formula.
Feeding a nutrient- and calorie-dense puppy food to a desexed dog can lead to obesity, so don’t wait long to transition your pooch to a new food.
You should also know that most smaller breeds can make a switch from three to two meals a day when they are around seven or nine months old.
Small dogs need less time to grow up and reach adulthood than larger breeds and consequently have different nutritional needs. If you have a toy or small-breed dog, feed them with small-breed puppy food.
Small-breed dog foods generally have more calories and are specially formulated to meet the higher energy needs of a small dog.
You should keep this in mind when picking out food for your pup since feeding an inappropriate diet can have an adverse effect on your pup’s growth, energy levels, and overall health.
Large and giant breed puppies, on the other hand, can continue eating three meals a day until they are 12 and in some cases even 14 months old.
Larger dogs need more time to fully grow and reach adulthood and have completely different nutritional needs than their smaller counterparts.
When it comes to large breeds, getting the nutrition right is of utmost importance. Overfeeding a large breed puppy can cause rapid growth, which can lead to serious health problems.
Eating too many calories can cause musculoskeletal disorders in large and giant breed puppies, so pay close attention to how much food you are feeding your pup.
Another important consideration when it comes to large-breed puppies is the calcium-phosphorus ratio. An ideal calcium-phosphorus ratio for large and giant breeds is 1.2:1 and should ideally come from your pup’s diet.
Large puppies that are eating a complete and balanced food that contains recommended amounts of calcium shouldn’t take any calcium supplements.
There are a lot of things that can go wrong if you aren’t sticking to a regular feeding schedule or feeding complete and balanced food to your large breed puppy.
When it comes to bigger dogs, it’s better to err on the side of caution and continue feeding puppy food three times a day rather than switching to a large breed adult dog food too soon.
Remember, giant breeds such as the Great Dane may take two years to reach adulthood and their full size. Switching your pup to adult formula or cutting their meals too soon can deprive your pooch of essential nutrients and jeopardize their health.
On the other hand, feeding a puppy formula for too long isn’t a good option since it can lead to obesity and joint problems.
When it comes to your puppy’s diet and nutrition, you should have your vet involved every step of the way.
Knowing when to switch a puppy to two meals a day gives you enough time to schedule an exam with your vet and discuss your pup’s mealtimes and feeding schedule before making any changes.
Even though most puppies do well following these feeding guidelines and meal schedules, know that every dog is an individual. This means that your pup may need a specific feeding schedule and meal plan that will cater to their unique dietary needs.
Don’t hesitate to talk with your vet or your breeder whenever you have some questions or doubts. In the end, it’s their job to help you raise a happy and healthy puppy.
QUICK RECOMMENDATION: We feed most of our puppies dry dog food sometimes mixed with fresh dog food. Over the years we’ve found the easiest way is to use an airtight storage container like the Iris Pet Food Container.
The best time to switch your puppy from three to two meals a day is when they are between six and 12 months old. Keep in mind that most toy and small breed dogs can make the switch to two meals a day when they are between seven and nine months old.
Large and giant breeds, on the other hand, can continue eating three meals a day until they are between 12 and 14 months old.
There are many factors that affect your dog’s nutritional needs and the number of meals they should have during the day.
Spayed and neutered puppies, for example, are less energetic than their intact counterparts and therefore need less nutrient-dense food and fewer meals.
Generally, you can transition a spayed or neutered puppy to adult maintenance food, to lower their calorie intake and prevent obesity.
A two-month-old puppy should be fed four small meals a day spread evenly throughout the day and always at the same times.
An eight-week-old puppy will still only eat canned puppy food, which means that you will need to feed larger amounts to account for your pup’s daily nutritional needs.
At this time, you may also want to try adding a few bits of dry kibble into your pup’s wet food to start getting them used to the feel and texture of kibble.
Since your pup should transition fully to dry puppy food by the age of 10 weeks, now is the perfect time to start introducing them to it.
Even when you start feeding kibble, your puppy will still need to have four equally spaced meals a day until they reach three months.
Ideally, your puppy’s last meal for the day should be around 5 P.M., followed by a potty break and a playing session. Feeding your pup around this time will give them enough time to properly digest the entire meal and eliminate one last time before going to bed.
Wait two or three hours to take your puppy for a final walk for the day, making sure they have plenty of time to empty their bowel and bladder completely before heading back home.
Making sure that you stick to a regular feeding and potty schedule is the best way to housetrain and keep your pup energized throughout the day.
Most puppies can switch to two meals a day when they are between six and 12 months old and should continue eating that way for the rest of their lives.
But, while most dogs do well on a two-meal-a-day schedule, adding a third meal can also be a good option.
Dogs that have digestive issues may have less trouble digesting smaller meals and do better when eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Either way, you choose, make sure the meals are no more than 12 hours apart since your dog’s stomach can become too acidic leading to vomiting and nausea.
As long as you are feeding your dog the appropriate amount of food for their age, size, and activity level, feeding one meal a day isn’t cruel.
However, feeding an adult dog one meal a day for a long time can lead to some serious health problems such as bloat and hyperglycemia.
It’s far healthier for your dog to eat at least two smaller meals a day. Having breakfast and dinner will also help keep your pooch energized throughout the day and support proper digestion and bowel movements.
When I first started raising guide dog puppies back in 2006 we transitioned our puppies to once-a-day feedings at about 15 months old.
I was not a fan of feeding our dogs only once a day and apparently, the school decided it wasn’t a good idea either. By the time I raised my second puppy, they went back to twice-a-day feeding for our older pups.
We are not veterinarians but over the years we’ve fed our dogs many different types of food. Here are a few we’ve given our dogs that you might want to consider feeding your pups.
Over the years the guide dog program has changed the food we feed our puppies in training. Here’s a look at the foods we’ve fed our guide pups:
Over the years we’ve fed our new pups all different kinds of food. It will vary depending on what breeders, shelters, and rescues recommend and use with their puppies. Here’s a list of the foods we’ve fed our puppies that we like:
Dehydrated Dog Food
Fresh Dog Food
Hopefully, you can find food your dog loves. These are some of our favorites and worth checking out if you haven’t found something for your dog or puppy.
Knowing when a puppy should go from three meals to two meals a day is important for your pup’s overall health and development.
Making sure that your pup is getting all the right nutrients they need based on their life stage will ensure that they grow into a happy, healthy, and strong adult dog.
When it comes to a puppy’s feeding schedule here’s what you need to remember:
In the end, while most puppies can start having two meals a day when they are between six and 12 months old, ask your breeder or rescue center for their guidelines on feeding your puppy.
Also, talk to your vet and see if cutting your pup’s meals is the right thing to do.
That all being said these are general guidelines that you can apply to most puppies. However, as mentioned earlier every puppy will have his own individual needs based on size, breed, etc.
We’ve raised dozens of puppies and every breeder will have their own set of guidelines that are important to follow. After all your breeder will know her puppies better than anyone.
When we brought home our 8-week-old guide dog puppy, Stetson the school recommended soaking his kibble (Canidae All Life Stages) in warm water for 10 minutes and feeding him three times a day.
When he reached 4 months old they asked us to transition him to eating twice a day.
On the other hand, when we adopted a Labrador puppy from our local breeder their recommendation was to feed FROMM Gold three times a day without soaking then transitioning to twice a day when she was 6 months old.
I’ll say it again…every puppy is different.
How about you?
How old is your puppy and how often do you feed him/her?
Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below.
UPDATE: This post was originally published on March 25, 2022. We periodically update blog posts with new experiences and information to keep them as relevant as possible.
Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.
The basis of training any animal is winning its trust, confidence and respect. True training cannot begin until the animal has accepted you as its leader, respects you and entrusted you with his or her confidence.
The mistake many puppy owners make is mistaking love and affection for respect and confidence. While it is certainly important to love your new puppy, it is also very important that the puppy respect you and see you as his leader. Dogs are naturally pack animals, and every dog looks to the lead dog for advice and direction. Making you the pack leader is vital to the success of training any dog.
Failure to gain the respect of the dog can create a dog that is disobedient, out of control and even dangerous. Problem dogs are dangerous, whether they are created through bad breeding, owner ignorance or improper training. It is important to train the dog right from the start, since retraining a problem dog is much more difficult than training a puppy right the first time.
If you are reading this series of entries for the first time, you might want to start at the beginning: Time for puppy preschool: Get the basics for positive dog training
Coming when called is a vital skill that every dog must learn, both for its own safety and that of those around it. A disobedient dog that refuses to come when called could easily be hit by a car, get into a fight with another dog, or suffer a variety of other bad experiences. A well trained dog that comes when called can safely be taken out to play in the local park, at the beach, on the hiking trail, or anywhere else the owner and dog may wish to go.
Basic training to come when called is relatively easy and straightforward, and involves providing praise, treats and other perks when the dog does as his owner wants. After these basic “come when called” training exercises are mastered, there are a number of fun exercises that can be introduced to challenge the dog and pique its interest.
Making training into a fun game is one of the best ways to motivate dogs and handlers alike. It is easy for training sessions to become routine and boring, and it is important to keep them from degenerating into this state.
Before beginning any food based training exercise, it is important to make sure that the dog is properly motivated and ready to respond to treat based training. Testing the dog is simply a matter of taking a piece of his regular food and waving it in front of the dog’s nose. If the dog shows great enthusiasm for the food, it is ready to start the training. If not, it is best to wait until the dog is in a more receptive mood.
The treats that work best for treat based training games like hide and seek are small pieces of chicken, cheese or liver. In other words, something your dog will love. It is best to use very small pieces to avoid over-feeding the dog during the training sessions.
One great game for you and another family member or friend to play with your dog is simply back and forth recall. This is a great exercise for teaching your dog to come whenever it is called by a member of the family. Dogs often learn to only respond to one person, and this can be a problem when other people are watching the dog. That is one reason why professional dog trainers always insist on working with the owner as well as the dog. A well trained dog must learn to respond to whoever is in charge, not just the owner or usual handler.
In the back and forth recall game, two or more people stand approximately ten yards apart, in a safe place like a fenced in yard. One person calls the dog and asks him to sit and wait until another person asks the dog to come. When the dog responds to the command to come, it is rewarded with a treat. Most dogs respond wonderfully to this exercise and love playing this game. When playing the back and forth recall game, it is important that only the person who called the dog be allowed to give the dog a treat.
After the dog has mastered the back and forth recall game, the humans in the game can start to spread further out, thus turning the back and forth recall game into a fun game of hide and seek. The hide and seek game starts with two or more people in the center room of the house. Every time they call the dog to come, they spread out further away from where they started. As the game continues, one person will be at one end of the house, while another may be at the opposite end. What makes the hide and seek game so much fun for the dog is that he must seek out the person to get the treat, instead of simply running up to a person in plain sight. This type of seeking behavior appeals to many of the dog’s natural instincts. After all, dogs are naturally hunting animals, and seeking out food is second nature to them.
Keep the attention of a dog while training is not always easy. Dogs can be easily distracted, and it is important to not allow the training sessions to be sabotaged by boredom. Making training fun for the dog and the human alike is vital to creating a happy, well-adjusted and well trained dog.
Providing random positive stimuli during the day is a great way to keep the interest of the dog. Doing things the dog enjoys, like walking in the park, riding in the car, and playing with other dogs, is a great way to keep the dog’s attention and reward him for small successes.
For instance, in order to reward the dog for coming to you, for instance, ask the dog to come to you, without giving any clues about a walk, a car ride, or other treats. After the dog has come to you and obediently sat down, attach the leash and start the reward. This can be either the aforementioned walk in the park, ride in the car, or anything else the dog likes to do.
Providing some kind of reward, whether a treat, a special outing or just a scratch behind the ears during each time the dog does something you want is a great way to keep your dog motivated. If the dog knows something great is going to happen every time he obeys your command, he will be motivated to please you every time.
When training any dog, it is important to not let distractions disrupt the training. The dog must be taught to ignore distractions, such as other people, other dogs, other animals and loud noises, and focus on what is being taught. These types of distractions can even be used as rewards when training the dog to come when called.
For instance, if your dog enjoys playing with other dogs whether in a local dog park or with the neighbor’s dogs, let him play freely with those other dogs. Then go into the park or yard and call your dog. When he comes to you, provide lots of praise, treats and other rewards, then immediately allow the dog to go back to playing with his friends. Repeat this several times and praise the dog each time he comes to you. The dog will quickly learn that coming to you means good things (treats and praise) and not bad ones (being taken away from the park).
If the dog does not master this particular type of training right away, try not to get discouraged. So called distraction training is one of the most difficult things to teach. Dogs are naturally social animals, and breaking away from the pack is one of the most difficult things you can ask your dog to do. Most dogs will be understandably reluctant to leave their canine companions, but it is important to persist.
Training the dog to come to you may require some creativity on your part at first. For instance, waving a favorite toy, or a lure, is a great way to get your dog’s attention and put the focus back on you. If your dog has been clicker trained, a quick click can be a good motivator as well.
Once the dog begins to get the hang of coming when called, you can begin to reduce and eliminate the visual cues and focus on getting the dog to respond to your voice alone. It is important that the dog respond to voice commands alone, since you will not always have the availability of a toy or other lure.
If you want to learn the basics of dog training, say no more, here you go: Puppy 101: A beautiful journey through dog training
Separation anxiety, also known in the dog training world as owner absent misbehavior, is one of the most frequently encountered problems in the world of dog training. Separation anxiety can manifest itself in many different ways, including chewing, destroying the owner’s property, excessive barking, self-destructive behavior and inappropriate urination and defecation.
Dogs suffering from separation anxiety often whine, bark, cry, howl, dig, chew and scratch at the door the entire time their family members are away. Well-meaning owners often unwittingly encourage this misbehavior by rushing home to reassure the dog, but it is important for the well-being of both dog and owner that the dog learns to deal with extended periods of separation.
How the owner leaves the house can often contribute to separation anxiety issues. A long and drawn out period of farewell can make matters worse by making the dog feel even more isolated when the owner finally leaves. These long types of farewells can get the dog excited, and then leave him with lots of excess energy and no way to work it off. These excited, isolated dogs often work off their excess energy in the most destructive of ways, such as chewing up a favorite rug or piece of furniture.
Excess energy is often mistaken for separation anxiety, since results are often the same. If you think that excess amounts of energy may be the problem, try giving your dog more exercise to see if that eliminates the problem.
If separation anxiety is truly the problem, it is important to address the root causes of that anxiety. In order to prevent separation anxiety from occurring, it is important for the dog to feel happy, safe, secure and comfortable while the owner is away for the day. It is important, for instance, to give the dog plenty of things to keep it busy while you are away. This means providing it with lots of toys, such as balls or chew toys. A pet companion is often effective at relieving separation anxiety as well. Giving the dog a playmate, such as another dog or a cat, is a great way for busy pet parents and pets alike to cope with the stress of being left alone.
Setting aside scheduled play times, during which the pet is given your undivided attention, is another great way to alleviate boredom and separation anxiety. Playing with the dog, and providing it with sufficient attention and exercise is a proven way to avoid a stressed and anxious dog. A happy dog that has been well exercised and well-conditioned will generally sleep the day away happily and patiently wait for the return of its owner. It is important to schedule one of these daily play sessions before you leave the house each day. It is important to give the dog a few minutes to settle down after playtime before you leave.
For dogs that are already experiencing separation anxiety and associated misbehaviors, it is important to get them accustomed to your leaving gradually. Be sure to practice leaving and returning at irregular intervals, several times during the day. Doing so will get your dog accustomed to your departures and help them realize that you are not leaving them forever; Dogs that have been previously lost, or those that have been surrendered to shelters and readopted, often have the worst problems with separation anxiety. Part of treating this problem is teaching the dog that you’re leaving is not permanent.
Dogs often urinate when they become overly excited, and dogs that are otherwise perfectly housebroken sometimes show their excitement by dribbling urine when greeting you excitedly. It is normal for some dogs to urinate when they get excited, and this can be a particular problem for many older dogs.
A lot of excitement induced urination occurs in young puppies, and it is caused by a lack of bladder control. The puppy may not even know he is urinating, and punishment will simply confuse him. Becoming angry with the puppy will quickly cause excitement urination to morph into submissive urination, thus compounding the problem. As the puppy gets older and develops better bladder control, this type of excitement urination should disappear.
The best cure for excitement urination is prevention. Preventing your dog from becoming over excited is the best way to control this problem behavior. If your dog is excited by a particular stimulus or situation, it is important to repeatedly expose him to that situation until it no longer causes excessive excitement.
Submissive urination is a natural part of pack behavior among animals like dogs and wolves. The submissive member of the pack shows his or her submissiveness by lowering itself and urinating. Since dogs are pack animals, they may show their submissiveness to their owner, who they regard as the pack leader, by exhibiting this submissive urination.
Dogs who exhibit submissive urination are usually showing their insecurity. Previously abused dogs often exhibit submissive urination. These dogs need to be shown that there are more appropriate ways to express their submissive status, such as shaking hands or licking the owner’s hand.
The best way to deal with submissive urination problems is often to ignore the urination. Trying to reassure the dog can give the mistaken impression that you approve of the behavior, while scolding the dog can make the submissive urination worse.
Correcting problems with submissive urination should be directed at building the dog’s confidence and teaching him other ways to show his respect. Teaching the dog to lift his paw, sit on command, or similar obedience commands, is a great way to direct the dog’s respect in a more appropriate direction.
Problems with urination are not always easy to deal with, but it is important to be consistent, and to always reward acceptable behavior on the part of the dog. When urination problems do occur, it is always a good idea to first rule out any medical conditions that could be causing those problems. Medical issues like bladder infections can be the root cause of problems with unwanted urination.
After any medical problems have been ruled out, it is important to determine what is causing the problem, and treat it appropriately. While it can be tempting to punish the dog for inappropriate elimination, doing so will only confuse and further intimidate him.
Are you still deciding whether to adopt a new puppy or not? You might this entry interesting: Welcome Home Buddy: Tips For Adopting A New Puppy Or Dog
Dogs by nature are predatory animals, and all predatory animals share the motivation to chase fleeing objects. While this may be a natural instinct, it is not appropriate when those fleeing objects are joggers, bicyclists or the mailman.
Training the dog not to chase people and bicycles is an important thing to do, and it is best to start that training as early as possible. Starting when the dog is still small and non-threatening is important, particularly with breeds that grow very large, or with breeds that have a reputation for being very aggressive. Many people respond to being chased by a dog, especially a large dog, with understandable fear, and it is best for yourself and your dog that he be trained not to chase before he reaches a threatening size.
Some dogs are easier to train away from chasing than others. Breeds that have been used for hunting or herding often retain much more of their chasing instincts than other types of dogs, for instance.
No matter what breed of dog you are working with, however, it is important to not allow him off the leash until his chasing behavior has been curbed. Allowing an untrained dog off the leash is dangerous, irresponsible and illegal.
Before you expose your dog to a situation where he will want to chase someone or something, be sure to train him in a safe, controlled area like a fenced yard. It is important for the dog to be able to focus and concentrate on you, and for him to understand what behavior you want. The dog must be given the opportunity to repeatedly perform the behavior you want while in this controlled setting.
The training session should be started indoors in the dog’s home. The dog should be put on a leash at one end of a hallway or room, and the owner should stand at the other end. The owner then waves a tennis ball in front of the dog but does not allow him to touch it. After that, the tennis ball is rolled to the other end of the hallway or the room, and the command “Off” is used to tell the dog not to chase the ball. If the dog starts out after the ball, use the command “Off” once again and give a firm tug on the leash.
When doing this type of training, it is vital that the dog not be allowed to touch the ball. If he actually reaches the ball, he may think that “Off” means to get the ball. This exercise should be repeated several times, until the dog has learned the meaning of the “Off” command. When the dog responds correctly by not chasing the ball, he should be rewarded with a special treat.
After the dog seems to understand his new game, move to another room and try the same thing. Repeat the exercise in several rooms of the house, in the garage, etc. After the dog has seemingly mastered the game and learned the meaning of the “Off” command, you can work with him without the leash, but still only in a safe area like your own home or a fenced in yard. It may take some time for the dog to fully master control of his chasing instinct, and it is important not to rush the process, or to leave the dog off leash until you are sure he is fully trained.
To test the training in the real world, enlist the assistance of a friend to pose as a jogger. It is important that the dog does not see and recognize this person; he has to assume that it is a stranger in order for the test to be valid. Stand with the dog on his leash and have your friend jog by a couple of times while you do the “Off” exercise. If the dog does as he is asked, be sure to provide lots of praise and treats. If he starts after the “jogger”, give a firm reminder by tugging on the leash.
Loud noises, such as fireworks, thunder and traffic, are one of the most frequently cited fears given by dog owners. It is natural for some dogs to be fearful of loud noises, but some dogs are so traumatized by thunder, fireworks and other loud noises that they are completely unable to function.
Dogs that display excessive fears or phobias such as these can be a danger to themselves and those around them. Dogs may manifest their fear in self-destructive ways, like slinking under the couch or the bed and getting stuck, for instance. They may also react in ways that are destructive to the home, such as urinating or defecating on the carpet, chewing up favorite items, or barking incessantly. These reactions are often worse when the owner is not at home.
One thing that is hard for many dog owners to understand is that soothing or stroking a dog that is displaying fear is exactly the wrong thing to do. While it is natural to try to calm a fearful dog, to the dog you are rewarding it for being afraid. The dog likes the sound of your voice, likes your petting, and concludes that he has done the right thing by acting afraid. This only makes a bad situation worse.
The best strategy when the dog displays fear when there is a thunderstorm or a fireworks display is to simply ignore the dog. It is of course important to watch the dog to make sure he does not hurt himself, but otherwise just ignore him and let him work through the fear on his own. When you go away, be sure to make sure there is nothing the dog can get stuck under, since fireworks or a thunderstorm can pop up at any time.
A dog that is severely afraid of thunderstorms and other loud noises may need to be confined to a single room, or even a crate, for a period of time. After the dog feels safe in his “den”, he may be able to deal with his fears a little better. It can be quite a struggle to teach a dog not to be afraid of thunderstorms, firecrackers and other such noises, but it is important that the dog at least be able to control his fears without being destructive to himself or his environment.
Much as magicians use sleight of hand to hide their tricks, so dog owners practice the art of distraction to take their dog’s mind off of their fear. For instance, if your dog is afraid of thunderstorms and you know one is on the way, gather some of your dog’s favorite toys and get ready for the misdirection.
Of course, your dog will probably know the thunderstorm is on the way before you do. When you see your dog start to display fear, take a few of his favorite toys and try to get him to play. Very fearful dogs may be reluctant to play, but it is important to try nevertheless. Often a few treats can be a good distraction as well. Try buying one of those balls that you can fill with treats or biscuits, and encourage your dog to chase it.
Try playing with your dog every time a thunderstorm is in the forecast. This can start to implant good memories, and these can sometimes replace the fear memories that caused the dog to be afraid of thunderstorms in the first place.
Desensitization is a highly effective way to deal with phobias and fears in humans, and it can be very effective for dogs and other animals as well. Desensitization involves introducing the dog to small amounts of whatever noises frighten him. For instance, if the dog is afraid of thunder, try tape recording your next thunderstorm and play it back slowly when the dog is relaxed. Reward the dog for not showing fear responses.
This kind of desensitization training can be remarkably effective for some dogs, but it will take lots of patience and hard work. Fears of thunder and fireworks are not always easy to cure.
Are you also a cat person? Owning A Domestic Cat 101: Important Tips, And What Supplies To Get
Chewing is something that comes naturally to every dog. Every dog feels the instinctual need to sharpen its teeth and hone his biting skills. Chewing on the right things, like specially designed chew toys for instance, can even help the dog clean his teeth and remove plaque.
Even though chewing is natural and healthy, that does not mean that the dog should be given carte blanche and allowed to chew everything in sight. It is vital for every dog to learn the difference between the things it is OK to chew on, like toys and ropes, and the things that are off limits, such as carpets, shoes and other items.
When working with a new puppy, it is advisable to keep the puppy in a small, puppy proofed room for at least a few weeks. This is important not only to prevent chewing but to properly house train the puppy as well.
Older dogs should also be confined to a small area at first. Doing this allows the dog to slowly acquaint him or herself to the smells and sights of the new household.
When you set up this small, confined area, be sure to provide the puppy or dog with a few good quality chew toys to keep him entertained while you are not able to supervise him. Of course the dog should also be provided with a warm place to sleep and plenty of fresh clean water.
As the dog is slowly moved to larger and larger portions of the home, there may be more opportunities to chew inappropriate items. As the dog is given freer access to the home, it is important to keep any items that the dog or puppy should not chew, things like throw rugs, shoes, etc. up off of the floor. If you forget to move something and come home to find that the dog has chewed it, resist the urge to punish or yell at the dog. Instead, distract the dog with one of its favorite toys and remove the inappropriate item from its mouth.
The dog should then be provided with one of its favorite toys. Praise the dog extensively when it picks up and begins to chew its toy. This will help to teach the dog that it gets rewarded when it chews certain items, but not when it chews other items.
Teaching the dog what is appropriate to chew is very important, not only for the safety of your expensive furniture and rugs, but for the safety of the dog as well. Many dogs have chewed through dangerous items like extension cords and the like. This of course can injure the dog severely or even spark a fire.
Most dogs learn what to chew and what not to chew fairly quickly, but others are obviously going to be faster learners than others. Some dogs chew because they are bored, so providing the dog with lots of toys and solo activities is very important. It is also a good idea to schedule several play times every day, with one taking place right before you leave every day. If the dog is thoroughly tired after his or her play session, chances are he or she will sleep the day away.
With this, we conclude our “Time For Puppy Preschool” series. We hope these entries helped you in the process to adapt yourself and your new puppy to your new life together. Please feel encouraged to say hello – we’ll be happy to help with any questions you might have, and if you’d like to comment on our site, products or service, we’d love to hear from you!
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Canine Parvovirus: It’s the virus that wreaks havoc on a puppy’s gastrointestinal system and a diagnosis every dog owner fears hearing!
What are the chances that a dog with parvo will survive?
Learning that your pup has canine parvovirus is beyond scary—it’s terrifying! When faced with this diagnosis the first question you’d want to ask is, “How do I know if my puppy will survive parvo?”
Disclaimer: We are not veterinarians. If you think your puppy is sick you should consult your veterinarian immediately.
Unfortunately, canine parvovirus in puppies is very common and often fatal. When not diagnosed or treated in time, parvo’s mortality rate is as high as 91%!
Immediate diagnosis and treatment are paramount and will significantly increase your puppy’s chance of surviving parvo.
With aggressive treatment and proper care, your puppy has a good chance of making a full recovery and reaching a ripe old age.
In this article, I will tell you everything you need to know about canine parvovirus. Keep on reading to learn if a puppy can survive parvo, signs that your pup is recovering, and much more.
While most dog owners have heard of parvo, only those who’ve cared for an infected puppy truly understand how devastating this virus is.
Parvo has a high mortality rate and is one of the most infectious viruses that affect dogs.
The scary thing is, parvo can survive in the soil for years, and you can pick it up outside and transfer it to your puppy without knowing it!
Your puppy can also contract parvo through direct contact with an infected dog, so be extra vigilant if you are raising sibling puppies.
Another possible scenario of catching parvo is by indirect contact with a contaminated object.
So, every time your puppy goes outside and sniffs or licks doggy poop, there is a chance of exposure if the poop is contaminated.
Furthermore, your puppy can get parvo if they play with an infected dog or puppy, or touch a food bowl, leash, collar, or harness used by an infected dog.
Canine parvovirus is classified as a gastrointestinal disease since it causes the most damage to the stomach and small intestines. This virus destroys cells in the small intestines, which diminishes nutrient absorption.
The most common symptoms of parvovirus are:
If your puppy is experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t waste a second—take them to the veterinarian straight away!
Most puppies die from parvo within 48 to 72 hours following the onset of the first symptoms. Immediate reaction and treatment are crucial and will significantly improve your puppy’s chance of surviving parvo.
Our third guide dog puppy, Dublin did not catch parvo but one of his siblings did. They got him treatment right away. Unfortunately, Dublin’s sibling succumbed to canine parvovirus. 🙁
The chances of a puppy surviving parvo greatly depend on how soon after initial symptoms your puppy has been diagnosed and treated.
Up to 91% of untreated puppies will die within two to three days after exhibiting the first symptoms of parvo.
Please, don’t try to wait out the virus, thinking your puppy will get better on its own! Parvo is deadly and dangerous because it acts quickly, so you need to be quicker than the virus.
The good news is, with quick reaction and proper veterinary treatment your puppy has a 68–92% survival chance. Furthermore, most puppies that survive the first three to four days make a full recovery.
Quick reaction and veterinary intervention significantly increase your puppy’s chance of getting over parvo. However, your puppy’s chance of surviving parvo also depends on:
As mentioned, the time your puppy starts treatment is essential for their survival.
Bear in mind, your puppy will have the best shot at full recovery if they begin treatment in the first 24 to 72 hours of first experiencing symptoms.
If your puppy hasn’t received its complete series of vaccinations and is showing symptoms of parvo, take them to the veterinarian right away.
A young puppy’s immune system isn’t strong enough to fight such a strong infection.
Delaying treatment is never a good idea with parvo. If you ignore the symptoms, thinking your pup will get better, their condition will rapidly deteriorate till the point of no return.
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for new owners to mistake vomiting and diarrhea with a tummy ache and blame it on something their puppy ate.
In these cases, the proper diagnosis and treatment are delayed, which can affect the puppy’s chances of survival.
Still, it’s always better to take your puppy to the vet late than never! While a delayed reaction doesn’t automatically mean that your puppy won’t survive, you should be prepared for every possible outcome.
Although canine parvovirus is very common, there is still no specific medication designed to kill the virus in infected puppies and dogs.
The treatment for parvo is designed to relieve the puppy’s symptoms, thus giving their immune system a chance to fight off the disease.
Treatment should be started as soon as your puppy is diagnosed, and it primarily consists of intensive care.
Your puppy should receive IV fluids with electrolytes to combat dehydration, medication to combat vomiting and diarrhea, and antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
The initial treatment for parvo is aggressive and typically lasts three to four days. With the right type of treatment, you should start noticing signs your puppy is getting over parvo.
Mainly, your puppy’s stool won’t have any blood in it and should start firming up.
Using the wrong type of treatment can jeopardize a puppy’s chance of surviving parvo. Thus, it is very important that you discuss treatment options with your veterinarian.
Depending on the severity of your puppy’s condition and its symptoms, your veterinarian may suggest keeping the puppy hospitalized for the initial treatment.
This is always a good option if you aren’t able to provide at-home care or have other dogs at home.
Underlying health conditions are often overlooked in puppies since most are born completely healthy.
However, puppies from pet stores and puppy mills are often born sick and may have more than one undiagnosed health problem.
Unfortunately, puppies with underlying health issues have lower chances of surviving parvo.
The puppy’s immune system is already stretched too thin and isn’t equipped to fight on two fronts. In these cases, a puppy’s health will rapidly deteriorate and its body will start to shut down.
Figuring out the chances of your puppy surviving parvo often comes down to the severity of their symptoms.
If your puppy is no longer vomiting and shows some signs of appetite, these are clear signs that they are responding well to the treatment.
However, if two or three days have passed and your puppy is continuing to throw up and still has bloody diarrhea, know that things aren’t looking good.
This is the time to talk with your veterinarian and discuss the course of treatment.
If your puppy isn’t responding well to the initial treatment plan, your veterinarian may suggest a blood plasma transfusion.
This is generally only done in severe cases, and it’s a good indicator that your puppy isn’t doing well.
Even if your veterinarian does everything right, there is still a chance that your puppy won’t survive parvo.
The near-death signs of parvo include severe lethargy, continuous bloody diarrhea, anorexia, and bloody vomiting.
You may not want to admit it to yourself, but this is the point of no return. So consider doing a humane thing by putting your puppy to sleep.
While saying goodbye to your puppy will be extremely hard, take comfort in knowing they are no longer in pain and that you did everything you could to help.
Parvo is a terrible disease, but with a fast reaction and aggressive treatment, your puppy can be on the road to recovery just in a few days. There are several signs that can let you know your puppy is getting over parvo.
Seeing these signs in your puppy means they are reacting well to the treatment and that their body is fighting the infection. The most common signs your puppy is getting over parvo include:
The canine parvovirus causes small intestines to bleed, thus affecting the entire gastrointestinal system.
As a result, a sick puppy will start to vomit, which can lead to dehydration. A dehydrated puppy will try to drink water to stay hydrated, but will automatically vomit any solid food or water that is consumed.
The vomiting can become so bad that at some point you may find blood in your puppy’s vomit or foamy yellow bile.
Bearing this in mind, one of the first signs that your puppy is recovering from parvo is the lack of persistent vomiting. Furthermore, you will notice that your pup is no longer drooling or foaming at the mouth.
Persistent bloody diarrhea is one of the telltale signs of parvo. Besides the blood, your puppy’s stool will have a distinctive strong odor.
So when you notice that your puppy’s poop is firming up and that there are no traces of blood in it, that’s a clear sign that your pup is getting better.
As your pup continues to recover from parvo, its stool will regain its normal color and consistency.
A firmer and blood-free stool is a good indicator that there is no bleeding in your pup’s intestines and that they are recovering.
With the onset of the first symptoms of parvo, puppies tend to lose their appetite. As a result, your puppy will lose weight rapidly, but its belly might appear bloated.
As your puppy starts to recover, they will regain their natural appetite and start eating as before catching parvo. When you notice that your puppy is willing to eat, know this is a sure sign that they are healing.
At this point, your pup will be able to hold down any food and water it consumes, and will slowly start to regain the lost weight.
Bear in mind, puppies recovering from parvo will need to eat easily digestible, bland food that won’t irritate their stomachs.
Your veterinarian will suggest an appropriate dietary plan and you should follow their instructions to the letter.
Weakness and lethargy are usually the first signs of parvo. As the infection progresses, you may notice that your puppy doesn’t respond to your calls.
Furthermore, depending on the severity of their symptoms, your puppy may not have the energy to move or eat.
Puppies battling parvo will also experience fever, anemia, and even sepsis, which can drain their energy levels even more.
Another sign your puppy is getting over parvo is when they start standing up and moving around without your help. As your puppy gets better, they will have more energy and show interest in toys and playing.
Most puppies that survive the first three to four days of parvo will make a full recovery. However, the recovery period varies from one puppy to another and depends on the severity of the symptoms and other factors.
It generally takes puppies one week to recover from parvo, but they are still contagious up to 10 days after clinical recovery.
Puppies who’ve survived parvo should be quarantined until they stop carrying the virus in their bodies.
After that point, you should talk with your veterinarian and have your puppy vaccinated before allowing them to interact with other dogs.
Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially deadly disease if left untreated.
Adult and older dogs who contract parvo have better chances of survival than puppies. The survival rate of dogs treated by a veterinarian is 68–92%.
Dogs and puppies that are diagnosed and treated within 24 to 72 hours following the first symptoms have the best survival rate and in most cases make a full recovery.
Starting treatment as soon as possible is your dog’s best chance of surviving parvo and leading a normal life.
Most dogs that have been exposed to parvovirus will have a three- to five-day incubation period.
During the first stage, most puppies show signs of lethargy and slowing down. Secondary signs of infection include loss of appetite and weight loss followed by vomiting and diarrhea.
As the parvovirus starts to spread in your dog’s body, their symptoms may get much worse, resulting in dehydration.
At this stage, your puppy should already take appropriate treatment including IV fluids that will help keep them hydrated.
If left untreated, the initial stages of parvo will quickly progress, resulting in severe dehydration caused by persistent vomiting and diarrhea.
Additionally, secondary infection can occur as the result of a weakened immune system, which leads to sepsis and death.
The best thing you can do to help your puppy recover from parvo is to take them to a veterinarian as soon as you notice the first symptoms.
Your veterinarian will begin treating your puppy right away with fluid therapy, anti-nausea medication, and antibiotics.
While your puppy is being treated, you will have to try to feed them with a bland and highly digestible diet.
Most puppies won’t have the energy to eat, so you should try bottle-feeding your puppy to help them get valuable nutrients.
Puppies are vaccinated against parvo when they are approximately six, eight, and 12 weeks old.
Until your puppy receives their full series of parvo vaccines, it can still get infected after coming into contact with a sick dog or contaminated object.
So even if your puppy got their first parvo shot, they can still catch the virus if exposed to it.
Therefore, it’s very important that you keep your puppy away from other dogs and practice good hygiene until they are fully vaccinated.
Additionally, your puppy will need to receive a booster shot a year later, and every three years after that.
Parvo has a high mortality rate, but most puppies make a full recovery thanks to an early diagnosis and aggressive treatment.
But even if you and your veterinarian do everything right, there is a chance that your puppy won’t recover from parvo.
Faced with all these terrible facts, you are probably wondering, how do I know if my puppy will survive parvo?
While canine parvovirus is a common disease in puppies, there is still no cure for this condition.
The best and the only way you can prevent your puppy from catching this deadly virus is vaccination. So don’t wait–take your puppy for a shot today!
Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.
Small dogs are cute- really cute! Maybe not everyone’s cup of tea (pardon the pun), but there are lots of reasons why someone might prefer small dogs over larger ones. They don’t take up as much space in small houses or apartments. They don’t eat as much as large dogs so it’s usually cheaper to feed them. They oftentimes have longer life spans than larger dogs and many toy-breed dogs have wonderful personalities. And they are absolutely adorable. Did I mention that already?
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to own a small dog. But how small is too small? Where do you draw the line between wanting a small dog that is a healthy, happy companion and wanting a dog that is as small as possible? Does size really matter so much that you would risk your dog’s health just so you can have the tiniest dog on the block? This is exactly what some owners are doing, whether knowingly or not.
The smallest breeds of dogs, many of which are generally under 10 lbs, fall into the category of toy breeds. The smallest breed of dog, as many already know, is the Chihuahua. A healthy, breed-standard chihuahua generally weighs somewhere between 2 and 6 lbs. The pug, generally weighing between 14 and 20 lbs, is probably the largest of the toy breeds. Even a 20 lb dog is pretty small. A 2 lb chihuahua is downright minuscule. Some dwarf rabbits grow to be larger than 2 lbs!
So as you can see, there are options out there for people who want tiny dogs. So why then, are some “breeders” out there advertising for what they call “teacup” puppies?
The fact of the matter is that there really is no such thing as a “teacup” puppy. There are no “teacup” breeds; the term “teacup” is not recognized by the AKC or any other form of dog association. The word “teacup,” when used to describe the size of a puppy, usually means that the puppy is smaller than average. That might not seem like such a bad thing, but think of the size of a typical chihuahua puppy—tiny! Now think of how tiny that puppy would be if it were half its normal size.
Whatever happened to calling the smallest, usually weakest, puppies of the litter runts? By many breeders, teacup puppies are produced by breeding what basically amounts to runt dogs together. Now if all that caused were extra small dogs, that’d be one thing. But there are many risks involved with breeding very small dogs, to both the mother dog and the puppies. The mother dogs, being very tiny themselves, commonly have difficulties carrying and delivering puppies.
Common health issues in so-called teacup puppies include things like liver shunts, hypoglycemia, heart problems, open soft spots on the skull, collapsing trachea, seizures, respiratory problems, digestive problems, blindness, and the list goes on. Many of these issues are life-threatening and very expensive to treat.
Teacup puppies, because they are so small and frail, are also prone to breaking bones even while performing normal activities (such as jumping, playing, or running) that would present little to no danger to a normal puppy.
Not all teacup puppies are produced by breeding very small adult dogs. Unethical breeders will sometimes lie about a puppy’s age in order to make it appear that the puppy will be small as an adult.
If you’re thinking about adding a small dog to your family, please do the responsible thing and thoroughly research potential breeders or adopt a dog from a shelter. Do not fall for the teacup scam! The little puppies may be adorable, but they often come with health problems that can cut their lives short and/or cost their owners thousands in vet bills.
There is no such thing as a teacup puppy. The term is most often used by unethical breeders as a marketing ploy to stick a high price tag on what is more often than not a very unhealthy puppy. There are plenty of perfectly healthy small-breed dogs that need loving homes and can be obtained without using your hard-earned cash to support unethical breeders.
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Picking up your puppy is probably the most exciting part about puppy raising, but as soon as all the cuteness has worn off (actually some of the cuteness will wear off the first time he piddles in the house or perhaps a little poopie accident on the car ride home…YUCK!) one of the first things you will think about is how to potty train a puppy.
When we first started raising guide dog puppies over ten years ago we received a guide dog puppy manual on how to raise and train a puppy.
As guide dog puppy raisers, we follow all the rules and puppy training guidelines outlined in our puppy manual and when it comes to potty training our puppy we simply turn to page 42 in our manual and follow the instructions on how to potty train a puppy.
So today we’re going to discuss how we go about…you guessed it…potty training a puppy!
QUICK TIP: You likely don’t have access to a Guide Dog Puppy Manual. Luckily we’ve read many books on puppy training and one of our favorites, Puppies for Dummies is an easy read that will give you a solid foundation for raising and training your puppy.
QUICK ACCESS: If you’re having puppy training problems then you should join our Puppy Training Tips email list and get instant access to our New Puppy Owner Checklist PDF. To get started CLICK HERE.
Here are some of the basics we’ve learned over the years on how to potty train a puppy.
Potty training is obviously one of the first things you’ll want to teach your puppy. If done properly, potty training is not difficult. The key is to be consistent.
Never allow YOUR puppy to be unattended or out of YOUR sight. If you are unable to do this remember to use confinement as a means of prevention.
QUICK TIP: We highly recommend crate training your puppy as a primary means of confinement. We’ve been using the Midwest Life Stages Double Door Crate w/ Divider since we brought home our first puppy, Linus over 15 years ago.
Keep your puppy on a schedule. Feed him at regular times and always give him a chance to relieve himself right after being fed. (we feed our puppies Wellness Core Puppy Formula)
Using a designated area in your yard, let your pup have plenty of time (fifteen minutes) to relieve itself.
Encourage the puppy to go by using words such as “Get Busy”. This is the command used at Guide Dogs of America. We use the same command with all of our puppies in training.
When the puppy has done his business, praise him lavishly. A good rule of thumb to follow is to give your puppy a chance to relieve himself at a minimum of these times…
This is uber important. Anticipating when your puppy will potty should be something you know like the back of your hand.
Always take your puppy out to his potty spot:
Remember your puppy should always relieve on a leash. It is important to train the puppies to relieve on leash on a variety of surfaces (grass, gravel, cement, etc…)”
Many of these potty training tips are from our guide dog puppy manual and don’t need to be followed to a “T” if you’re training your puppy as a family pet.
One thing I wish I would have known sooner is to train my puppies to relieve on different surfaces.
My rescue pup, Linus learned to pee and poop on the grass and was potty trained in less than two weeks. However, when he was nine months old we took him camping and he would not go potty on the dirt.
There was no grass and we were worried that we’d have to drive into town (about an hour away) to find grass for him to pee on.
After holding his pee for over 24 hours he finally relieved in the dirt and pee’d for about 2 minutes straight (think Tom Hanks in A League of Their Own).
The moral of the story? It’s important to train your pup to pee on a variety of surfaces.
All of our guide dog puppies have learned to pee and poop on cement, grass, gravel, rocks, wood chips, dirt, and any other place you might imagine.
One of the great things about being a guide dog puppy raiser is the incredible network of knowledgeable puppy raisers and guide dog trainers we have at our disposal.
Some of the members in our Orange County Group have been guide dog puppy raisers for 20+ years and have raised a dozen or more puppies!
I guess we’re relative neophytes as Dublin is only our third puppy in training and this is only our fifth year as guide dog puppy raisers.
UPDATE: as of today we are entering year 18 as puppy raisers and we’ve raised 17 puppies for multiple service dog organizations.
As guide dog puppy raisers we are required to enroll our puppies in a minimum of one puppy kindergarten and one basic dog obedience class.
One of the first questions we are asked at puppy kindergarten is how are you doing with potty training your puppy?
Even our most experienced puppy raisers will still sometimes have questions on how to potty train a puppy.
QUICK RECOMMENDATION: We recently started training our puppies to alert us when they have to go potty by using a potty-training doorbell called the Smart Bell. It requires a little bit of training, but it’s a good alternative to your dog scratching up the backdoor.
Here are some of the puppy training tips and hints I’ve learned over the years when working on potty training with my own puppies:
We learned pretty fast that it’s important to keep a constant eye on your puppy. Use puppy gates (same as baby gates), tie-downs, and leashes to make sure you can always see your puppy.
If you see him start to sniff around, circle, whimper, or squat then quickly scoop him up and take him out to his designated potty place in the yard.
Give him a ton of praise when he potty’s in his spot. It’s important to keep your puppy under constant supervision not only for potty training purposes but to keep him out of trouble in general.
We’ve found many a chewed-up shoe, cell phone, or remote control because we didn’t keep a close eye on our puppies. This can be both costly and dangerous for your puppy.
If you keep a puppy potty schedule you’ll notice your pup can be fairly predictable with his potty times.
We just use a sheet of paper and write it down every time our puppy goes pee or poop (you’ll start to notice trends in your puppy’s potty schedule). Here are a few potty times that should automatically be on your schedule.
stay free from variation. Stay consistent so your puppy knows what you want him to do. Be consistent by taking him out the same door to the same potty spot.
Be consistent with your puppy’s potty schedule.
Be consistent with your puppy’s feeding schedule.
Be consistent and make sure everyone in your household abides by the same puppy potty training rules. If you do not stay consistent then it will take longer to potty train your puppy.
continue firmly with your potty training your puppy in spite of any difficulty. At times it may seem like your puppy just does not get it, but don’t waver and be persistent.
It took our Aussie mix, Linus less than 2 weeks before he was potty trained. It took about 6 months to fully trust Stetson with his potty training. Stay persistent!
defined as the ability to suppress annoyance…puppies are adorable, but they will also test your patience.
Try to remain calm and don’t get upset with your puppy. It takes time to potty train a puppy.
Be patient and you will be rewarded. If you feel yourself losing your patience step away for a while and let your puppy have some alone time in his crate with his favorite KONG or chew toy.
The most important thing when we raise our guide dog puppies is to give your pup tons of praise every time they do something right.
Don’t forget to give your puppy a ton of praise every time he goes potty in his designated potty area. This will help reinforce the behavior with your puppy.
we crate-train all of our guide dog puppies in training. (if you’re looking for a crate we recommend the Midwest Life Stages Double Door Crate w/ Divider).
Many people feel like crate training is like imprisoning your puppy. However, crate-trained puppies enjoy the safety and security they feel when in their crate as they will find it much like their den had they lived in the wild.
In fact, many of our puppies in training have grown so accustomed to their crates that they will often go to their crates and sleep any time they are tired.
Crate training is great for potty training as it’s your puppy’s natural instinct not to potty where he sleeps. For more information on crate training check out our page on crate training puppies. For starters here are a few basics on crate training:
Puppy In Training TV Episode 2 reviewed several puppy training basics including a short clip on taking your puppy to his potty spot (approximately 2:15 in the clip below).
Check out our other Puppy In Training TV episodes. If you’re interested in sponsoring an episode please let us know by sending us an email through our contact form.
We need to reiterate…Do not Rub Your Puppy’s Nose In His Accidents! Do not hit your puppy after an accident! Do not punish your puppy if you find an accident!
Never punish your puppy after the fact. Your puppy will think you are punishing him for whatever is happening at the time of the correction.
Your puppy will not make the connection that this is an area that he previously soiled and that is why you are punishing.
Full Disclosure: When I was in college (Holy Crap! Over 25 years ago!) my roommate had a dog and instructed me to…rub his puppy’s nose in his accidents to teach him not to potty in the house.
Guess what, his puppy never connected the dots and continued to have accidents in the house every day the 1+ year I lived with this poor little puppy.
If your puppy pees or poops on the floor or carpet make sure you clean it up immediately (I’m sure I didn’t have to say that).
Your puppy’s nose is thousands of times stronger than your nose.
If your puppy smells the pee or poop on the floor then he will return to this spot to pee again.
We like to use an enzyme-based odor remover to remove all the stains and odors. We created our own formula: Puppy In Training Stain & Odor Eliminator.
Our spray will go deep into surfaces to digest and eliminate organic stains and odors caused by urine, vomit, feces, and other stinky sources
Remember, your puppy’s nose is thousands of times more powerful than yours. If he smells a trace of urine, he’ll feel compelled to potty in that spot again, so make sure you find a good stain and odor remover.
One final note: If your designated potty spot is in a public area (or even at home) make sure you bring potty bags (we like these mighty paw poop bags made from recycled materials) or a pooper scooper to clean up your mess.
One of our biggest pet peeves is the person who does not pick up after their puppy.
It’s bad for the environment and for some reason, the bottom of my shoe seems to always find the dog poop that was left behind.
I hope this little guide helps you with your puppy potty training basics.
If there are 3 things I’d like you to remember when potty training your puppy:
That’s a wrap!
What questions do you have about potty training a puppy?
Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
UPDATE: This post was originally published on July 11th, 2011. We periodically update blog posts with new experiences and information to keep them as relevant as possible.
Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.