1st Time Puppy Owner

[mrdigby]

I wonder why we haven't heard anything.........hope all went well.

[jmwoody]

Thanks to all. We get our puppy tomorrow. You haven't heard from me because I am still trying to figure out how this site works!! LOL!! Anywho, I appreciate all the adivce! Will update soon! Love the bell idea!!

[jmwoody]

1. adjustable wire crate located where you want it for the long term
2. Kongs, ropes, balls, small foam Frisbee
3. Bowls for water and food
4. Small bell on a string. Tie the string to the door know and let it fall to a point where he/she can reach up and ring it. Every time you take him to toilet, ring the bell. He will be ringing it in no time when he needs to go
5. Something to cuddle with in the crate, that item should have no parts that can be chewed off
6. Small collar. Might as well get him used to it if he isn't already.
7. Be prepared for a couple long nights.
8. I would wait a few days for training so the pup can get used to the new digs and also being with his new pack. Once he's settled in, train basics often but be patient.

Should I give my puppy a bath when I get home from the breeder?

[doubledip1]

Should I give my puppy a bath when I get home from the breeder?

I wouldn't. You don't bathe Labs unless you absolutely have to.

[mrdigby]

I agree. No bath necessary. Set up an appointment with a Vet. Bring him in for his exam. Make sure you know what shots he already has. Vet will baseline him/her and set you up with a plan for continued care. Might want to consider health insurance. Labs are known to ......smash into things, run through things,

[4Thelove]

Hello and Welcome

[jmwoody]

I agree. No bath necessary. Set up an appointment with a Vet. Bring him in for his exam. Make sure you know what shots he already has. Vet will baseline him/her and set you up with a plan for continued care. Might want to consider health insurance. Labs are known to ......smash into things, run through things,

So far our pup has been crying and howling and barking all night in his crate. We have it close by us so he can see us and even put our hand down to be closer.. doesn't seem to phase him We are on night 4 with him. Is this normal? Also, during the day when he falls asleep I pick him up and place him in the crate. Immediately he wakes and finds a spot outside of his crate. When I have a quick errand to run and am out anywhere from 30 mins to an hour I put him in his crate. I come home to him standing up barking and whining. When can I expect this to pass? Thank You!

[Doreen Davis]

He's just left his litter mates and is lonely. It is not unusual for him to cry in the crate but be firm.. Treat him in the crate, make it a 'happy' place but don't break down or it will last longer.

[jertom]

Did someone say get a bell for the door? I just got one yesterday for Rocky, although he hasn't been a problem with housebreaking because I'm around most of the time, he will stand on the door and scratch if he really has to go. wanted to make an improvement here.
So as soon as I put it up, he rang the bell, if we're going out together for any reason he rings the bell, if he wants attention he rings the bell.
I can only hope he uses it at the right time.
By the way, still believe it's a good idea. unless you dog thinks he's sooooo smart.
Amazon.com : Dog Doorbell for Housebreaking / Housetraining / Potty Training Your Poochie to Let You Know When they Need to Tinkle (Black, Qty 1) : Pet Supplies

[doubledip1]

I would try to cover the crate with something like a blanket or a sheet. It helps puppies feel more comfortable.