We got our puppy (miniature labradoodle) 3.5 weeks ago. She's now 11 weeks. I'm not sure if we're doing "it" right or what to expect when.... All thought v welcome! We have a 2 year old as well.... It's a bit chaotic!
- We crate trained from the beginning. She sleeps in her crate through the night and is v happy to have naps in there. She also goes in there sometimes if for instance there are loads of kids about and she seems overwhelmed - she likes going in then! We also put her in if we need to go and sort DD out upstairs etc. Then, she sometimes howls for about 2 minutes when she goes in then she settles and sleeps. Presumably that's ok?
- House training - we are ignoring accidents and taking her out when she looks like she's about to go and just after waking/eating/drinking. We click and treat when she goes outside. She sometimes goes to the back door. Not often and we have quite a few accidents (maybe 3 a day sometimes less). Is this right? When will she start to get the hang? An I expecting too much?!
- Biting / mouthing - she bites/mouths when excited or playing. We say no, hd her jaw and turn around and ignore her. Is this right? What do you suggest?
- Stealing food - she jumps up to DDs little toddler table and takes whatever she can. We just say no and knock her down with our elbow. But she just carries on! What should we do?
- Jumping up to people - how do we stop this! We say no and get down to her level, but guests are a bit rubbish at it.
- Recall - When do we start teaching this (I guess we should have started already....?). I assume we will click and treat. How does it work?
Generally,we try to say no and not scold with her name, but it's hard!
I am panicking a bit as I am 6 weeks pregnant (v early days I know!) and am just overwhelmed at the thought of the puppy as she is now with a baby!!!! When will it get better? Will we still totally have our hands full as set out above in 8 months time? What should I expect then from the puppy?
Thanks - sorry for so many questions!!!