You've completed all of the new puppy owner training: You did your research and asked questions about the best breed for you, you chose a responsible breeder from whom to purchase your puppy, you puppy-proofed your home, and you spent more hours than you'd like to admit watching dog training tips videos on AKC.tv. You're off to a great start as a responsible dog owner!
You're probably wondering, too, how something can be so adorable. We're sorry to disappoint you, but we haven't figured out the answer to that question yet. Puppies are adorable and will most likely melt your heart into giving them extra cuddles, gifts, and treats. That being said, here are some new puppy owner questions that we are confident we can answer:
1. Why does my puppy dislike being picked up by my children?
Most kids aren't aware of the signals that dogs send when they don't like something or are attempting to flee. By picking up a puppy, the children unwittingly put the dog in an uncomfortable or even painful situation.
Dogs that are constantly held while sending "please stop!" signals will remember the unpleasant experience and try to avoid it in the future. Take the time to teach the kids how to hold the dog properly and what it looks like when it's happy and when it's not. (For a better understanding of dog body language, consult this handy chart.)
2. Is it cruel to leave my puppy with someone else while I'm away?
Your puppy will be fine as long as you trust the person caring for him or her and provide food, a collar, a leash, and chew toys.
3. Why does my puppy attack my clothes when I put on my clothes?
It appears that your puppy is attempting to entice you to play with them. Don't engage if they do it again. They will think you are playing a game if you push them away or chase them.
Instead, place them quietly and calmly in their crate or another room until you have finished dressing. Then let them out and walk out of the room. It may take a few repetitions for your puppy to understand, but they will learn if you are consistent.
4. What Should I Do If My Cat Dislikes My New Puppy?
Don't let your puppy to "insist" on playing with or chasing the cat. Because your puppy does not understand your cat's communication, you must intervene on his behalf.
5. My vet advised me not to take my puppy outside, but they now need to go to the toilet!
It is acceptable to let your puppy go to the toilet outside. Avoid areas frequented by other dogs until your pet has received their most recent set of vaccinations; if you can't, carry your puppy.
