Having a puppy who runs into his crate on command is more than just a convenience - it can keep him

 Having a puppy who runs into his crate on command is more than just a convenience - it can keep him safe, too. For example, if a glass breaks in the kitchen, giving your puppy the "crate" command can keep him away from the broken glass until it has been cleaned up. Before you begin training, check to see that your puppy's crate doesn't slip or rattle against a hard floor. Both things can make a puppy nervous about approaching his crate. If necessary, put an old towel between the crate and your floor to keep it quiet and in one place. Start the training by getting your puppy's attention with a treat and tossing the treat into your puppy's crate. If your puppy leaps in after it, great! If your puppy doesn't rush into the crate right away be patient. After a few times of being rewarded for putting his head into the opening of the crate, your puppy should be more than happy to put one foot in, then two, and then you're on your way. Once you know your pup will go into the crate on his own, start using the cue word as you toss the treat into the crate. Read More...


Allergic to puppy?

If you develop an allergy to your puppy you may experience a number of symptoms including watery eyes, a runny nose or difficulty breathing, among others. These symptoms result from contact with your puppy's dander and saliva. Dander is the name for the tiny particles that are released from your puppy's hair and skin. These particles become airborne and stick to any surface they can, including furniture and walls. Your puppy's saliva does the same thing once it dries. If your puppy causes you to sneeze or cough this usually means that you also have an allergy to pollens or molds. You will also have an "allergy tolerance level." This means that a certain amount of allergens in your environment are bearable, and won't cause you an allergic reaction. However, if there are many allergens in your home then your puppy may be your "allergic breaking point." If you can limit your exposure to other allergens you may find that your puppy no longer causes you an allergic reaction. Read More...

Is a dog's mouth cleaner than a person's mouth?

Does your puppy lick your face in greeting? Some people like nothing better than being kissed by their puppy while others are uncomfortable with the practice. There are many interpretations of why your puppy might lick your face. It could be out of affection, subservience or to let you know he’s hungry. Most of us have heard it said that a puppy’s mouth is cleaner than a person’s mouth. This is not true. It’s another dog-myth. You may have noticed that some dogs have strange appetites. There are certain dogs who like nothing better than to snack on cat litter. So a dog’s mouth is not necessarily cleaner than a person’s mouth. However, unless he’s just eaten something that offends you there’s no need to avoid your puppy’s kiss. It won’t hurt you – psychologically it may even make you feel better. Read More...

Dear Dr Kate,

My 9 month old puppy is always chewing – plants, boxes, you name it. What can I do?

Puppies chew but when they chew on things you do not want them to chew it becomes a problem. Our Wilson was, and is, a chewer. I have put tabasco on our wicker, boxes and a couple of old suitcases to prevent him from destroying them. It has worked. Many puppies are chewers - one of the ways puppies explore their world is through their mouths. Keeping valuables out of your puppy’s reach and directing his teeth to approved chew toys can also help protect your valuables