Advice for 3.5 month old teething puppy.........

[susienpaws]

Fellow Waccos,:snoopydance:

I am caring for a 3.5 month old puppy who is teething for over a week soon, The guidelines so far: are to watch her constantly when she is running about, Use ice cubes and rubber toys to ease her teething. She is crate trained so she can ride in a car or have time out in the crate.

If anyone has more tips about caring for this adorable creature please share them with me. I may also try the leash to waist in the house with her.

Many thanks, Susannah

[Claire]

oh Susannah! :)
I asked my husband, the dog guy, about your situation and he said to refer you to dogstardaily.com. They will have all the info you need and lots of excellent books to choose from.
And I would like to mention that you can get great results with positive training methods. Do not let anyone, regardless of their supposed credentials, talk you into giving your puppy harsh corrections. It is unnecessary and possibly damaging, but I'll bet I'm singing to the choir, right?
Michael also says that you will need to have a good balance of exercise, training/ handling/ management, good nutrition, socialization, the proper toys, i.e. a Kong, and a good Vet.
Well have fun and good luck.
claire

[santarosie]

10) don't let them out of your sight - watch like a hawk
9) hard rubber ball instead of tennis balls - LOTS of play time
8) tug toy like rope (made for dogs)
7) train puppy to "no bite" (POSITIVE training methods only please!)
6) watch out for chewing on wooden chair legs, tables and doors
5) block access to irrigation lines outside
4) filled Kong toys
3) keep puppy away from ALL dangling electric cords, curtains, and pull cords
2) Nylabone
1) Hide ALL of your shoes!!!

GOOD LUCK and HAVE FUN!

[Cavalina]

I would try stuffing a puppy Kong toy that is appropriate size for the puppy (small enough to get his mouth around but not so small that he can get it caught in his throat. Then stuff it with dog food or treats. If you are concerned about too much food, you can feed him this way (which would also give him more incentive to work at it!) To make it more interesting and last longer, you can layer it with soft food and dry food/treats and even wedge a larger treat inside so he has to work at it so it lasts longer. I have also used pigs ears and rawhide chews to help chewers but there is some question as to how healthy they are for dogs to eat so you might want to check with your vet before trying these. When you notice the puppy chewing on something inappropriate, say 'no' firmly but not angrily and offer him an alternative (a dog toy) to chew on. All the best - they do get over it eventually!

[susienpaws]

Thank you to all who sent me advice about to dealing in a positive manner with a 4 month old teething puppy. WACCO is one practical bulletin board.

Wishing all a Healthy and Adventurous Spring........Susie Ryan