I'm baaackk.. with a new puppy and a Q (sierra2002)

    • Gold Top Dog

    I'm baaackk.. with a new puppy and a Q (sierra2002)

    Hi Guys!

    It's definitely been a while - lots going on, and probably wont have time to hang around here as much as I used to, but..

    Earlier this year my hubby and I bought our first house (YAY!) It's a lovely detached, fenced yard, plenty big enough for us to grow into. So since we weren't renting anymore, I'm still advancing in my career, so no kids yet... so what did we do? Got another puppy Big Smile

    Tobias is 9 weeks old as of 2 days ago. He's another mutt, his pregnant mother was a rescue - but she looked about 1/2 border collie. He's a cute, smart, black ball of fuzz.

    Sierra's turning 10 in November. She's still got a lot of spunk, zero health issues, begs for her walks, zoomies in the yard, etc. But she's always been iffy with other dogs since she is quite dominant and plays rough and tends to start fights. 

    The good news is - the two, as of yesterday, are playing fabulously together! Cool  It's mostly wrestle-type play, which is what Sierra prefers. He was a bit intimidated at first but now they're just fine. But here's my worry - he's following a LOT of Sierra's behaviours, in general. I'm worried that he'll pick up the habits that has gotten Sierra in trouble for her entire life. She is also a very hardy dog with a high pain tolerance. I know she won't tell him when he's being too rough. I don't want to discourage the play though, since this is essentially what i was hoping would happen if we added another dog. Now that they've discovered how fun it is to play with one another, they're playing for hours and tiring each other out.

    Thoughts?

    I'm thinking of doing a puppy class after his next set of shots, even though my hubby thinks we can figure this out on our own. It's been tough dealing with Sierra for the last 10 years and i want to make sure this one grows up without those issues.

    • Gold Top Dog

     And because i realize that this thread is useless without pictures.. i'll throw a few in here

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    • Gold Top Dog

    aaawww.... look at that cute baby.

    I'd say take that baby to puppy class, or if you have a place that has puppy play time, take him there (if you know they're good there). I can teach the things a dog learns in puppy class just fine, and usually have them all taught before I get there. I go for the socialization aspect, and the learning to perform in distracting places. This is just me, but I wouldn't necessarily wait until the next set of shots if you can get him in before that. Luke went to his first puppy class at 11 weeks old. He started just a few days after I brought him home (he came home on a Sunday, and he was in class some time the following week).

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    • Gold Top Dog

     squeee thank goodness you came back with pictures!! And welcome back in general!

    I think puppy class is awesome for all pups! 

    I am so glad that Sierra is doing so well and she and the pup are getting along well!

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    • Gold Top Dog

     Fuzzy Wuzz a Baby Bear Puppy!  So cute!  Congrats on the addition!!

    I'll second the sentiment that a good puppy class is great for socialization.  Then find a good obedience trainer to get you building the working bond you only get from training.  Fantastic to see you guys again!  Smooches to big sister Sierra, of course!

    • Gold Top Dog
    What a cutie. I go along with the others about puppy class..even if you can teach those things, puppy class is important for the socialization.
    • Gold Top Dog

    It is so good to see you.  Congrats on the house and the new puppy!  He is a cutie pie.  Of course I am very fond of black furry babies :)

    I think puppy class is great.  Give pup and Sierra luvins from Arkansas.

    • Gold Top Dog

     Good to see you! Puppy class is great for socializing.

    • Gold Top Dog

    Congratulations on the new house and the new, adorable addition to your family!!

    • Gold Top Dog

     Thanks for the input & comments everyone Smile He's a handful, but somehow seems easier than Sierra as a pup.

     I signed him up for a puppy class that starts in 2 weeks. I'm excited!