Anyone have an easy time with new puppy?

[HeyWolfie]

My wife and I are getting our pup this Saturday. He's 15 weeks old and is coming from a reputable breeder about whom we got many references and votes of approval. We're definitely prepared for anything and are completely fine with the discomfort training a new puppy can bring, but we're just looking for some encouraging stories about puppy training to help ease those "new parent" fears. :)

Anyone have an easy time with their pups? When you first crate trained them, did they only cry for a few minutes before settling in? Were you able to help them potty train within a few weeks? When left alone, did they not bring the house down and cause the neighbors to call the police? :D

[Boykins]

Congratulations on your new addition. I hope you'll post pics! What will you name him/her?

As for life with a puppy...I think it can vary so broadly that you'll find some people had it really easy, and others...not so much! :lol:

Boykins was probably average. She really didn't like being left in her crate, but we were consistent and I think you could say she has now come to terms with the crate being a necessary evil. Fortunately, we now leave her in the kitchen/office area during the day, so the crate is only a night-time sleeping space.

I think one of the best ways to have a good experience with your puppy is to be consistent. Make sure everyone in your household is on the same page about EVERYTHING. One great example: for housebreaking, try to always leave your house through the same door. Doing this can help your pup learn that your door of choice is the way outside, and this can help him/her learn to show you that he/she needs to go out. We did this with Boykins and I think it really helped.

Good luck! I'm sure you're very excited!

[psshiss]

I have an "easy puppy" story.appicon

Baxter came to us when he was 12 weeks old. He was fine with being crated while we were away, no crying or fussing.

We initially used pee pads since it was in the dead of winter and he was so tiny. Once the weather improved she scooted him outdoors to do his business. He house broke like a dream and was completely trustworthy by 5 months. He has full run of the house when we're gone, and has never bothered a thing. He's about a year and a half old now and is a perfect little gentelman.

We did do puppy and dog school and he walks like a pro, no pulling or lagging.

So, anything is possible.

Not to burst your bubble, but we have had other dogs that were a bit more stubborn about training. :lol:

Patty and Baxter

[HeyWolfie]

Oh, there is no bubble here. We're expecting a crying, screaming, bed wetting little bundle of joy. :lol: We've already got the Nature's Miracle and paper towels set in strategic locations of the house. And we've warned the neighbors that going to bed Saturday-Tuesday should probably be accompanied with an Ambien (just in case).

[HeyWolfie]

I'm happy to report that Bosley (that's our new guy's name) is doing really, really well. He cried in the crate for about an hour the first night, but now is down to about 5-15 minutes every time we crate him up. He had accidents in the crate his first two mornings, but that was our fault, not his. This morning, after we made sure to take him out right before he went to bed last night, he got up with no accidents at all. appicon

He's really friendly and loves every person he meets. We haven't introduced him to any dogs yet, but I'd be surprised if he didn't like them. (Guess we'll see soon.)

Only tough part has been teaching him to walk on the leash, but that is not surprising at all. Once we got him used to the feel of it and enticed him to walk with us (with treats, of course!), he seemed to get the feel of it. He isn't leading us down the street yet, but that will come in due time, I think.

I have to say, I'm pretty relieved. I know this is just the very beginning, but I was gearing up for 2-3 hours of crying per night and major temperament issues. :lol: (No reason to worry about that, just an irrational feara, I guess.)

[psshiss]

Congratulations on getting your little guy home. appicon
Sounds like he's doing really well. :o
Can't wait to see some pics.
Patty and Baxter