Puppy Woes

Hey there, fellow dog people! Are you ready to hear about some of the most adorable and challenging creatures on the planet? That's right, we're talking about puppies!
Puppies are bundles of joy that bring love, laughter, and snuggles into our lives. But let's face it, they can also be a handful. From potty training to chewing everything in sight, raising a puppy is not for the faint of heart. But fear not, my friends! We've got some tips and tricks to get you started working on some common puppy issues.

Potty Training Woes
Ah, the joys of potty training. It's a necessary evil, but it doesn't have to be a complete nightmare. First things first, establish a routine. Take your pup outside at the same time and same place every day. Then treat and praise them when they go potty outside. Make sure to clean up any accidents inside with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the scent.

Generally, how long a puppy can hold it depends on their developmental stage:

• 8–10 weeks: One hour or less
• 10–12 weeks: Bladder capacity is increasing, but two hours is still the longest that most puppies can hold it at this stage
• 3–6 months: At this point, consider the one hour per month rule
• After 6 months: An older puppy, like most adult dogs, has the ability to hold it for up to six hours.

Chew on This
Puppies are notorious for chewing everything in sight. Shoes, furniture, even walls – nothing is safe from their little teeth. The key to combatting this is to provide plenty of appropriate chew toys, and puppy proof your home (nothing on the ground that you don’t want them to chew) If you catch them in the act of chewing on something they shouldn't, redirect them to a chew toy and praise and/or treat them for chewing on that instead.

Sleep Struggles
Puppies need a lot of sleep, but getting them to actually sleep can be a challenge. To help your pup get into a routine, establish a bedtime and stick to it. Create a comfortable sleeping area for them with a cozy bed, and some toys to keep them occupied.

Socialization is Key
Socializing your puppy is crucial for their development. Introduce them to other dogs, people, and new environments. This will help them become well-adjusted and confident dogs. Socialization is gradually and safely introducing them to new people, places and things.

Training Time
Training your puppy is essential, but it can also be frustrating. Remember to be patient and consistent. Keep training sessions short and positive, and always end on a good note. Make it fun, games are the best way to train young dogs. Be aware that not all training works at every puppy stage.
Puppy challenges can be tough, but they're worth it for the love and joy these little balls of fur bring into our lives. And with a little patience, consistency, and a whole lot of love, you and your pup can conquer anything together. That said, this is the time to get help if you are struggling.

​Happy puppy raising!

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