Doggie Blog
For questions and tips about raising puppies and beyond. A touch of Dog Whisperer, trainer, leader, friend, puppy psychology, and no-nonsense tips on what works and what doesn’t. From someone who has just entered that world with a cute-but-smart little shih-tzu/maltese mix named Ella. Today’s Tip: when crate training, remember that your puppy wants to be near you. Keep the crate in your room and save nights of whining and crying. Puppy is not “getting used to the crate.” It’s not even that she “hates the crate.” She needs to be near you! Soon you’ll ALL be sleeping through the night.
NEW PUPPY TIP: Nothing lasts forever. Don’t get frustrated. Remember: persistence, patience, praise. It will seem (at around 12 weeks) that puppy is never going to get it; that all you do is walk the dog and wait for her to pee/poop. Trust me, it all clicks in. Soon you will have the most wonderful dog in the world!
Rewards: Ella loves Itty Bitty Buddy Bites from Cloud Star. Mini gingerbread boys with bacon and cheese flavor. Crunchy. Yum! I purchase them at Fresh Market. Sit! Stay! Love!
August 12, 2012
Question at the hair salon the other day: When we were younger, the family dog was just there. Why so much concern about pet psychology and products today? My theory: many more people leave their pets all day long as they work and schedule activities. Another dog isn’t the answer (although this might work for cats). Pets want human companionship. Find a way to give yours love and attention! As for products, two words suffice: big business.