Questions, Probably Sound Silly

[mrslukebrown]

Hi all, I'm so gald I've found this forum. I know that some of these things I say might sound silly, but I just got Izzie on Friday (she's a 6 week old Bulloxer that I rescued from the SPCA) I've never raised a puppy on my own before and since my hubby's not returning from Iraq until next month, I want to get some things accomplished before then.

First off, ever since we've been home, I watch her constantly. I don't work or anything so I just play and hang out with her a lot. As soon as we got home we've established that outside is where we go potty and it seems like everytime she has to go outside, that's the only time she'll jump down from my lap. Plus as soon as she gets done doing her business she'll go and sit on the stairs and wait to be carried upstairs to get back inside. Is this crazy of me thinking that she's understanding a little allready, or can she be really?

Also, I've been feeding her three times a day about a 1/2 cup each time or so. Should I be leaving water out constantly or just when I'm feeding her?

Also, is she too young to start socializing? I realize she hasn't had all of her shots yet, but I don't want to miss out on the most crucial time and would really love to start walking her just around the yard and maybe meeting a few new friends. I understand the risks and everything, but since I'm her only companion right now, she pretty much doesn't let me put her down. Not that I mind, I can't help myself.

Also, when and how often should I start teaching her how to sit and what are the techniques? I've only had her two days and want to make sure that she's trusting me first and everything before we do that. Well any information anyone can provide is greatly apprecaited. I'm so excited to start raising my little gal and you'll definitely see more of me around the boards! take car e<<33

 

[SummerRiot]

It sounds like you did an awesome thing rescuing her from the SPCA
Its never too soon to start teaching her basics. When I got Riot, I started with "sit". its probably the most basic command a dog can EVER learn.

First thing you can teach her are "manners". When I first brought Riot home at 9 weeks old he had learn that he had to "sit" for his food and "wait" until I said it was alright for him to eat. Of course dont expect miracles at all! so i wouldn't push for the fully correct action right away! lol every LITTLE correct moevemt your pup makes, reward!

Now for training methods, the praise and ignore method worked best for Riot. When he did an undesired behaviour he was ignored or his behaviour was detered by something else.
Ex. chewing my shoes - shoe was replaced with his toy.
Riots never gotten a mean word from me. He got a few from my dad when he was a pup (5 months ish) he started his fear/aggresion stage and when my dad went to take a look at his teeth(he was learning this for conformation then) he started to growl a bit.. my dad started to raise his voice so Riot uped the anty as well and started to snarl lol As soon as my dad spoke quietly to him he stopped! lol

Make sure your pup knows that you are the person hes supposed to look up to for anything though. Letting him walk all over you at that age, may be cute.. but as soon s he gets bigger it will be harder for you to handle him!

Now, b/c hes 6 weeks I *think* he should be getting his first booster. I'm not sure, Riot already had his first booster when I had gotten him.

What type of medical information did your pup come with??

Its good to socialize your dog with your friends and CHILDREN! children is a big one!!

If your friends has a "house dog" that isn't interactive with a large amount of other dogs, it can come over to visit your pup as well. just make sure the other dog is clean and up to date on shots.
When Riot was little he met a select few friends dogs that were taken to shows consistantly and they had to have baths before coming over.

 

[mrslukebrown]

Another quick question, it's normal for her to cry a little at night? This is only her second night and I put her in my utility room to sleep until I can get a crate to where she'll sleep in the bedroom with me, but I just feel so sad. Last night she didn't cry but maybe five minutes total, and it takes awhile for her to cry. I don't know, I just feel horrible. I want to do things perfect with her, lol, i love her to pieces and it's only been one day. Take care all <<33

 

[PoodleMommy]

It is normal for her to cry at night as a puppy, but she should stop soon.

As soon as possible try and get the crate so she can stay in your room, as a puppy she will feel safer knowing you are close by and it will be easier for you to hear her if she needs to go out.

Good Luck, it sounds like you really love her a lot.

Elissa

 

[Roxy's CD]

Leave her water all the time.

As SummerRiot said, it's never too soon to start with basic commands, just don't expect anything right away, this way if she does figure it out quickly it's a bonus

Socializing, I'd hold off until I believe it's the 2nd or 3rd set of shots that's detrimental... But socializing with people can be done at any time!

It sounds like your a very responsible person and I'm sure that you'll do a great job, and it also sounds like your new little friend is a sweetie!