Today, Jerry and I attended the first session of Puppy Preschool, sans puppy. This first class was for humans only so that we could concentrate completely on what the instructor was telling us. Lots to take in. Even lots of information that conflicts somewhat with other dog trainers, so there is sifting going on in my head. Decisions to be made.
For instance, I plan to use a PetSafe Easy Walk harness with Boo. However, she is too small yet for the one I bought her (I knew it might not fit) but she may be too big for the next size down. So I’m going to use the type of slip leash that this trainer recommends, at least to start with.
Homework for this week is to find ten premium rewards (meaning rewards that Boo thinks are grand) and then to bring two of them (preferably edible ones) to next week’s class. Up to now, I haven’t found a training treat that Boo thinks is “to die for.” Still looking. I think a trip to the deli counter for some real chicken is in order.
Also, now that all of my major travel is behind me, we are entering a period of intense housebreaking. With Poppet, I used the advice and schedule found in the book How to Housebreak Your Dog in Seven Days. It worked like a charm with Poppet, so I am hoping for similar results with Boo. Confession: I have spoiled Boo a bit too much so may have to overcome some mistakes. Sigh.
In mid August, I am having eye surgery to prevent damage to my cornea. It has a lengthy recovery time, according to the surgeon, and I’m not sure what that will mean in terms of writing, let alone puppy training. Prayers for success and recovery appreciated.
Until next time…
~robin
Dear Robin,
Of course you spoiled Boo! You’re her mom, and it is expected. How on earth is she 15 weeks already?
You’re on my prayer list for the upcoming surgery, to include the surgeon and all involved with your care. As far as recovery and writing, will you be able to dictate and have sound files transcribed? A high school classmate works for a company that provides that service. I will find out the name of you’re interested.
Love and prayers,
Aun Linda Stokdyk
Hi, Linda. I have transcription software on my computer so I can dictate if I have to. Not my favorite way to write, but I can do it.
Praying for your surgery and successful recovery. I love your little fur baby.
Thanks, Mary.
We best house training advice I ever got was to watch my puppy when she went outside and when she started peeing or pooping to say “go potty” so that she associated the phrase with what she was doing. Later on if she went out first thing in the morning and did her business my husband would give her a treat. Well….she’s almost 13,yrs old now and when she hears us stirring in the morning she starts barking and won’t stop till one of us gives her a treat. Spoiled rotten!
Praying your eye surgery goes well. My husband is just getting over having cataract surgery in both eyes, one at a time of course.
Yes, our phrase is “Do your business.” I loved that throughout Poppet’s life, that’s all I had to say and she would do it. Boo is getting there.
Dear Robin,
Praying for your upcoming eye surgery. Little Boo should be a great companion to you as you recover!! Take it easy and take all the time you need with recovery…..
Prayers are being lifted up for your eye surgery and family !pleade tell Boo she has to understand that you won’t be able to play with her for awhile! I would think Boo would like something to eat by now iBoo is like my dog very picky ‘you and Boo will be awesome in Orr puppy class!the main thing is to learn how to play with other dogs and not get diffracted by something while trying to sit etc.have fun !
Love,
Darlene
Thanks for the prayers, Darlene.
Thanks, Sue.
Absolutely LOVE Boo! Chihuahuas are great lap dogs. I currently have a fawn colored one called Samson.
Boo is not a Chihuahua. She is a Papillon, and although they will lie beside you nicely when napping, they aren’t usually lapdogs. Too high energy.
I certainly hope your eye surgery goes well. I also hope you are successful with Boo, he may think he is training you. It is so hard to keep from spoiling them, especially if they look like Boo. Prayers!!
Thanks. And yes on the hard not to spoil. But I am better at the discipline than Jerry so I’m glad he is going with me to the puppy class so we can be on the same page.
Boo is so cute.I will be praying over your’e upcoming eye surgery….God Bless you.