COVID19 and Your New Puppy
These are some very challenging times. Life, as we have been used to living it, has changed.
Raising a puppy to become a well adjusted adult dog has changed as well. We don’t have puppy socialization classes, or the ability to introduce our pups to new and different people. We can’t easily allow them to meet other dogs or people when on walks as it brings the humans too close.
There are some things you can do. It will just take a bit more planning and effort.
To prevent your puppy from developing Separation Anxiety make sure to crate or confine him during the day and either spend time in a different room, go for a walk (maintain your distance) or brief drive. Start with 15 minutes and gradually build up the length of time you are apart. Make sure to keep track of his elimination schedule to avoid housetraining accidents. You want to avoid being with him 24/7.
Some training schools are now offering virtual classes. While you don’t have the opportunity for the pups to play you can still receive training guidance from a professional and get your questions answered. Support your local training school if they are offering this option.
Avidog provides programs for puppy owners and breeders. They have some good tips here.
Sound Proof Puppy Training is an app you can download. It has training tips as well as different sounds you can play to create positive associations for your pup. I have the sound of garbage trucks playing for my puppy as I write this blog. They also provide “how to” tips.
Scratch and Sniff Canine Services in Guelph, Ontario has some easy to follow tips here.
If you have Facebook there are some good groups you can check out.
Canine Enrichment has lots of great ideas for feeding creatively. Providing daily enrichment is important for a number of reasons including having something for your pup to use those sharp teeth on! Instead of feeding out of a food bowl, try one of the many ideas you will see on the page. This is great for any dog of any age.
My puppy is fed mostly raw. I use kibble when I am training. You can find examples of how I am feeding my puppy on my YouTube Channel in the Life With Louie series.
Grooming (husbandry) including bathing, nail trims, inspection of body parts is so important for young pups to be comfortable with. It’s a life long necessity so take the time to make a wonderful positive association with all aspects of the process. You can find good information in this Facebook group, Positive Dog Husbandry.
For learning how to teach your puppy to accept their nails being cut check out this Facebook page, Nail Maintenance For Dogs. You will have to do a bit of reading first but it’s worth it to have a dog who isn’t afraid of the process.
For a list of training schools offering remote training please email me.
As difficult as it is for all of us, please do your part to slow down the spread of the virus. Stay home. Play with your puppy or dog.
Stay Safe. Stay Healthy.