Puppy Playtime

We had a fun day today playing with the puppies!

Check it out!

Here is a video of playtime with Bentley-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4STPX2bKIA

And here is a video of Gimli-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFuatRLg2po

The puppies are 7 weeks old now! They are getting big and strong and becoming more adorable each day! Watching them grow up and develop their own personalities is wonderful!

Puppy Training and Socialization

Photo by Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

Socialization is the first step in raising a well-behaved dog. During the first weeks of their lives, puppies go through a critical period of development. When a puppy is exposed to new people, places, and situations in a positive way during this period, there’s a good chance he’ll be calm and accepting when he experiences them again later in life.

What Is Socialization?

Socialization is just what it sounds like – socializing. Your puppy should meet and interact with as many types of people, animals, and environments as possible. By the time he reaches about 4 months old, your puppy should learn to accept being petted by strangers, meeting other dogs, being handled by a veterinarian or groomer, and meeting a wide variety of people.

When Should Socialization Take Place?

Puppy socialization should take place when your dog is between 8 and 16 weeks old. Because puppies have not received all their vaccinations, you should talk to your veterinarian about when it’s safe to expose your puppy to new people and places.

Why Is Socialization So Important?

Socializing your puppy helps him to become a happy, healthy, and well-behaved member of your family. Properly socialized puppies are less likely to develop behavior problems as they grow into adults. Dogs who don’t get early socialization may react with fear or aggression when they are exposed to new things. It is much easier to teach your puppy to accept new things now than it is to retrain him after bad habits develop.

How Should a Puppy Be Socialized?

Socialization should involve as many people and situations as possible. Introduce your puppy to a wide variety of people, including men, women, children of all ages, people in wheelchairs, men with beards, and people wearing all kinds of clothing (e.g., uniforms, sunglasses, rain coats and umbrellas, hats and gloves, etc.). Before your puppy has gotten all of his vaccinations, you can begin to socialize him by inviting people to your home to meet him.

Handling exercises are another important part of socializing. Think the ways your dog may be handled in his lifetime – a child could pull his tail, a veterinarian might need to restrain him, you may need to hold his feet to clip his nails. If you get your puppy used to being handled in a gentle manner now, you will be less likely to have trouble handling him when he has reached adulthood.

Once your veterinarian approves taking your puppy to new places, you can begin socializing him outside your home. This is a good time to get him used to riding in the car, meeting other dogs, visiting the groomer and pet supply store, and taking walks in your neighborhood.

Socialization should always be kept positive. Allow your puppy to approach new things in his own time. You can use treats and praise to encourage your puppy to approach unfamiliar people and objects. Never push your puppy past his comfort level or he may become fearful of the things you are trying to get him to accept.

Can a Dog Trainer Help With Socialization?

Puppy training classes are a great way to enhance your puppy’s socialization. Dog trainers usually refer to these classes as “Puppy Kindergarten.” They should touch on the usual concerns of the new puppy parent, like housetraining and curbing destructive behavior. A good puppy kindergarten will also help your puppy to get comfortable with new people and being handled. Your veterinarian or local animal shelter should be able to help you find a good puppy kindergarten class.

Adding a New Dog to Your Family

A lot of dog people think that getting their dog a puppy or another adult dog for companionship is a terrific idea, and it IS! But then it seems like fights break out, or the two dogs together seem to feed off each other’s misbehavior. Or even worse, the initial meeting goes awry and you end up with one very angry and territorial established pet.
In an effort to help smooth things out for you, I’ve compiled a list of Do’s and Don’ts for that first meeting, and thrown in a few of the later frequently asked questions as well.
Meeting for the First Time
The very first thing you should do, is make sure that the established dog is at least somewhat agreeable to other dogs. If he tries to annihilate every dog he meets though, maybe getting him a canine playmate is not such a good idea.
It is also recommended that you get a dog of similiar energy and in some cases, temperament. Two easy-going, hyper dogs will co-exist better than a somewhat sour, couch-potato dog and a hyper dog combination.

• Always take both the established dog and the new dog to a neutral setting. A parking lot, a park, down the street, a friend’s house… This will circumvent the first territorial instincts.
• Keep both dogs on leashes and approach slowly. You’ll need a friend, or keep one dog confined in a car or crate.
• If all is going well, bring the dogs home, but leave them outside for a while and keep an eye on their interaction. This will help reduce the chance of any territorial marking that may happen indoors.
• Allow the dogs to establish their pack order, do not attempt to intervene if male posturing occurs. One dog will most likely back down, and it will be up to you to reinforce that order.
• Do NOT try to force sharing of toys, beds, or dishes. Each dog should have his own, and the dominant dog should be fed first.

Hopefully all goes well these critical first few days and dog number two becomes a permanent and welcome fixture in the family.

When Problems Arise Later: Commonly Asked Questions

My dogs are fighting, how should I stop them? Don’t stop them at all, unless there are actual injuries occurring. If you see blood, pull the dogs apart and secure at least one in a room, and keep them separated while tending to the cuts. Most fights are just play, dogs do play a lot rougher than we do, or they are working out the pecking order. One dog should be higher up in the ranks than the other, and they’ll need to establish this in order to have a peaceful household.
One of my dogs is sick with diarrhea, how do I tell which one it is? The easiest and most sure way by far, is just to take the dogs out separately on leash, and examine the end product. Another way that is simple enough, is feed one dog carrots, the other corn. That shows up very well, and color-coded poops will make identifying the culprit easier.
I found worms in the stool of one dog. Will the other dog(s) catch them too? Yes, worms are extremely contagious to other pets, and sometimes even humans. You will have to take your dog to the vet with a fecal (stool) sample for a positive worm identification. Then the vet will give you enough medication for all the pets in your household that have fur. It is very important that the right worm medication is given, and that the directions are followed exactly.

Puppies 101

Bringing a new puppy into your home will change your life forever. Puppies are definitely a lot of work, but the also bring plenty of joy to your world. Whether you are getting your first puppy or just need a refresher course, this is what you’ll need to know. From welcoming your new puppy home, to training and health information, these tips will help you get your puppy on the right track to adulthood.

Choosing the Right Puppy

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If the time is right for you to add a new puppy to your family, that is wonderful news! Sometimes, your future companion finds you. He comes into your life by chance, and in an instant you feel that connection. You know he is the one. However, it does not always happen like that. Often, you must take on the important task of going out and finding the right kind of puppy for you. First, you need to examine your lifestyle and consider what you are looking for in a puppy. Pure breed or mix? Big or small? Other factors include grooming and exercise needs, temperament and potential health issues. Research and patience are essential at this point. When you have found the right puppy, you will know you have a friend for life.

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Getting your Home Ready for Puppy

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Before you bring home your cute little fuzzball, you need to puppy-proof your home. This process is similar to toddler-proofing a home, but there are differences. Get an idea of the puppy-eye-view of your home. Electrical cords, potential toxins, and breakable items should be placed completely out of reach. Remember that your puppy can jump, climb, chew and scratch, so place what you can very high up or in a locked cabinet. “Child-safe” latches do not tend to work on curious and determined puppies. It’s best to secure cabinets and drawers with locks or metal hardware. Basically, it should be chew-proof and require opposable thumbs to operate. Proper puppy-proofing not only keeps your puppy safe, it also gives you peace of mind.

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Naming Your Puppy

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As your puppy joins the family, the all-important job of naming this new addition is a priority. Obviously, you will be using your dog’s name constantly throughout his life, so your choice should be a wise one. Pick something that has a nice ring to it and is not too long. It should be easy to say and simple for your puppy to understand. You may want to name your puppy something that describes his personality or appearance. Or, you may want something very unique. Check out some name suggestionsto help your decision. Once you have chosen a name, use it plenty. Before long, your puppy will learn his name and respond to it.

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Must-have Puppy Supplies

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Your new puppy will need certain items from the very start. Some are essential for your pup’s well-being, while others are quite helpful. Most important items include a leash and collar with identification, food and water bowls, and chew toys. You should also get a nice dog bed and, preferably, a crate or kennel. Some if these items can last as your puppy ages, but bear in mind that most of them will need to be replaced when your puppy grows. Collars may be adjustable to a certain point. A kennel can be purchased in a larger size for the future, but should be blocked off with boxes or other objects to make it the right size for the puppy. Be prepared for the expenses associated with dog ownership so you can budget accordingly.

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Choosing your Puppy’s Food

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Your puppy’s diet can make all the difference in his future health and well-being. Before you decide on a puppy food, do your research. Talk to your vet, other pet professionals, and fellow dog owners. Remember that if the food you initially choose does not meet your expectations, you can gradually switch to another food. In today’s dog-friendly world, the choices of diet seem endless. Some owners like to feed premium foods, while many feel that holistic/naturaldiets are best. However, homemade and raw diets are becoming increasingly popular. While researching puppy food, consider the quality of the ingredients, inclusion of proper nutrients, and taste. Basically, the food should be good for your puppy and he should like eating it.

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Keeping Your Puppy Healthy

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Preferably, you will find a veterinarian before you get a puppy. Within a few days of taking your new puppy home, you should bring him to your vet for a general exam. Your vet can help identify any potential heath issues early on, and advise you on caring for your puppy long-term. This initial visit also opens the doors of communication with you and your vet. Over the course of your puppy’s first six months, you will see a lot of your vet. This begins with vaccines and usually leads to spay or neuter. Typically, puppies should be spayed or neutered around six months of age. To help keep your puppy’s expenses down, you may consider purchasing pet health insurance, which could cover up to 80% of your dog’s health care costs.

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Puppy Vaccinations

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The puppy vaccination series is one of the most important aspects of your puppy’s early life. Vaccinating pets has been a controversial subject for years. Many people worry that we are over-vaccinating out pets, possibly putting them at risk for auto-immune issues and vaccine reactions. That’s part of the reason many vets are moving towards a three-year protocol (rather than annual) for adult dogs. However, when it comes to puppies it’s a different story. Just like human babies, puppies (and kittens) need basic immunizations at the very least. Plus, the vaccine visits allow your vet to examine your puppy every few weeks and monitor his growth and overall health. Talk to your vet about the best immunization schedule for your puppy.

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Housebreaking your New Puppy

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Housebreaking is one of the first things you will teach your new puppy. This process can sometimes be quite arduous, though some puppies catch on earlier than others. You should begin house-training as soon as you bring your puppy home, but it takes patience. Puppies are generally not able to control their bladders and bowels until about 12 weeks of age. If your puppy is younger than this, just be patient. Starting early can help get your puppy on a routine. As he grows and develops control over his bodily functions, he will already know what to do. As a general rule, you should take your puppy to the designated “potty spot” immediately after eating or drinking. However, accidents happen – so be prepared, consistent and patient.

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Basic Puppy Training and Socialization

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Beyond housebreaking, there are many more things you will need to teach your dog. Start by working on socialization. Leash training will set the stage for teaching basic commands, like sit, come and stay. These basic commands can help you curb some behavior problems. Just remember that puppies are curious, active and teething. They put everything in their mouths, including your hands! Work with this by replacing the inappropriate object with an acceptable chew toy. Distract your dog from mischievous behavior by offering something more pleasing, like a game, walk or other activity. Reward your puppy with treats and/or praise for shifting his attention. Puppy training can be a challenge, but the outcome will make your efforts worthwhile.

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Bonding With Your Puppy

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The bond you have with your puppy begins the moment he comes into your life and never stops growing. You can nurture this bond though affection, training, grooming, playtime, general exercise and participation in various activities. You may want to join an obedience class, start training in dog sports like agility and flyball, or participate in dog shows. One of the kindest ways to bond with your dog and allow your dog to bond with others is to get involved with pet therapy. If your puppy is right for therapy, he can begin training to visit people in hospitals and nursing homes or help children to read and learn. Strengthening and preserving the human-canine bond benefits the health and well-being of both you and your puppy.

Your New Labradoodle

Getting Prepared:

When your labradoodle puppy arrives it will be a very special time, but before make sure you have all the needed items for your new puppy!!

Here is a list of items to get:

Dog Crate and/or Puppy Bed
Solid Kennel or Wire Crate-Either is great! (Your puppy-if shipped-will be shipped to you in a solid kennel that certifies with airport regulations)

Grooming Supplies:
Dog Brush (Soft Bristle with Rounded Pin Bristles Works the Best, or Just a Pin Brush)
Steel Comb
Mars Coat King
Baby Wipes (for Cleaning Ears and Teeth)
Dog Nail Clippers
Styptic (Stops the Bleeding if You Accidentally Cut Too Far)
Shampoo

Food:
Blue Buffalo Puppy-Dry Kibble
Food Bowls and Water Dishes-I Prefer Ones That I Can Put in the Dishwasher

Toys:
Kong Chew Toy
Balls, Squeaky Toys
(Do Not Buy Toys With Fluff Inside or Toys That Will Be Torn Apart Easily)

Collar & Leash:
Puppies Come With A Plain Collar
Name Tags
A Leash

Cleaning Supplies:
Paper Towels
Vinegar Or Diluted Bleach Water-For Helping Eliminate the Smell on Floors
Nature’s Miracle-for Carpets

What to Bring to the Airport:

Leash & ID tag for your puppy, bottled water & a small bowl, extra blankets or towels to re-line the crate or for while you are holding it, plastic bag for soiled towels, and a camera . It is best to wait until you get home to feed your puppy, but if you have a long car ride home you can offer a small amount of Ribble. Just remember that the puppy may get carsick or have to poop.

Bedding:

For puppy beds, there are many very adorable beds out there! If you get a wicker bed the puppy will most likely chew it to bits. I prefer beds that have removable covers that are washable, or ones that will not be easily destroyed. You may also have your puppy sleep in its crate or in the bed. Just remember that until the puppy is house trained, it will go to the bathroom whenever it has to wherever it has to. I find most of these products at my local farm or pet supply store. Also there are a lot of great websites to purchase products such as www.revivalanimal.com, www.jbpet.com, and www.petedge.com.

Chew Toys:

Puppies teeth and chew! I know big shocker. However you must be prepared with chew toys, and “Puppy Proof” your house. The Kong is a great chew toy and the puppies love it. Also chew toys that do not have little pieces or are destroyed easily will work. DO NOT FEED RAWHIDE PRODUCTS!!! When eaten by dogs the pieces swell up in their stomach and can cause blockage, bloat, or death if not treated quickly. There are also some new reports out  that say Greenies can cause these problems as well. My vet no longer recommends or sells them. Pig Ears also have issues, these can soften and be eaten whole. They also can have e-coli on them and be a hazard to people especially young children, so wash your hands if you handle them!

Collars & Leashes:

Your puppy will come with a collar. This collar is web snap that will grow with the puppy. It will last a while if you want to wait and pick a style or color after you get the puppy. There are many fun and different collars and leashes out there. Make sure it is one that will work for both you and your new puppy. Leashes are a fun and easy way to train your puppy, but a leash is not really needed until the puppy gets older or if they are prone to running away. Also starting the puppy early with leash training will get it use to staying next to you on walks.

Grooming:

An Australian Labradoodle only needs to be bathed if the are dirty. If you live in a muddy area vigilance is key. If only their paws are dirty then only wash their paws. Baths take the oil out of their fur and make it brittle and prone to breakage, plus it may dry out your dog’s skin. A good brushing every week will ensure that your doodle’s coat stays nice and mat free. The Multi-Stripping-Curry-Comb named Coat-King,  is indispensable for every groomer. They are great for getting out mats (a mat cutter works well also), and is perfect for stripping the puppy coat around 9 to 12 months of age, which should be done weekly. Being groomed, nails clipped, ears and teeth cleaned is essential for your puppy. As the adult coat comes in you labradoodle will definitely need to be groomed and all this “Grooming Specialization” will pay off. After brushing, mist a little bit of water or conditioning spray and pat down the undercoat. This will help restore the waves/curls and prevent knots. If all this seems like too much trouble find a groomer in your area and take your labradoodle there. be aware however that the groomers will tend to cut your labradoodle like a poodle or just give them the standard puppy cut. A puppy cut is a no fuss no muss cut that will keep your puppy tidy.

Training & Treats:

Zuke’s Mini Naturals are ideal for training or anytime as a delicious reward. The healthy benefits of rice, malted barley, and essential vitamins & mineral will keep your dog begging for more. Mini’s are tender, meaty, free of preservatives and contain no wheat, corn, added animal fat, artificial flavors or colors. Small finger-nail sized pieces are perfect for training. Our dogs also love Avoderm Cookies. I usually break them in half. Now and Go treats are also very healthy for your puppy.

There are many great training books out there. Also, your local public library can hold many great books. Try checking out one that suits you, your family, and your new dog best. There are also quite a few good internet sites. A few good books are: The Art of Raising a Puppy, Good Owners Great Dogs, and Cesar’s Way.

Your Puppy’s Food:

Your puppy is currently on Blue Buffalo Puppy, I will be sending a food sample home with your puppy. If you would like to change brands at any time make sure that you leave enough of the original food to mix with the new food. Doing this will prevent sensitive stomaches. Hint. Hint. Costco’s Kirkland Brand of food is a good food also. Please discuss your food choice with your Vet, they may have some good recommendations also. However the Hill Science Diet Dog Food is one of the worst dog food brands out there to buy. So do your research and read the labels in order for a happy healthy puppy.

House Training:

House training may seem like a daunting task to a lot of you. I assure you that with the intelligence of this breed it is quite simple. For house training I highly recommend you get a crate for your puppy!
If you do not want a crate then I recommend you set up an x-pen or another “puppy proof” place that you can put your puppy in. Letting your puppy run the house is only going to lead to accidents, frustrations, and a prolonging of the housebreaking process. The Life Stages Series Front Door Folding Crates are designed for use over the lifetime of your labradoodle!!! This crate is a wire crate that will expand as the puppy grows. Remember you only want enough room for the puppy to turn around and lay down comfortably in the housebreaking stage. You can find this at www.jbpet.com

Well that should be everything you need to knnow about your new puppy but feel free to e-mail (clancyaussiedoodles@hotmail.com) me or post with more questions.