11 Week Old Goldendoodle

[Hannah]

My family adopted an 8 week old goldendoodle a few weeks ago. She is now 11 weeks old and finally settling in. She came from a horrible background (puppy mill got shut down, the man dumped them all into high kill shelters, picked up by a rescue group and then to us, all in 8 weeks of life!) before finally making her way to us. We knew there would be some bumps along the road, as she has had so much going on, but I have a couple questions.

First, I am used to puppies being rambunctious and ready to play. While Ginger (our puppy) is very trusting, she would rather lay in your lap than play. I know she isn't getting her energy out, because she wakes up 3-4 times a night to pace and wants us up with her. But we can't seem to get her to do anything that would wear her out! Any suggestions?

Another thing; she recently went to the vet and we found a couple of issues. The poor baby is very under weight (just over 10 lbs) and she as a upper repository infection. Is there a dog food that will help her gain weight better? She is eating puppy food, and we have added in some wet puppy food as well, since that's what the rescue group did, but it isn't working. Also, does anyone know if there is a way to prevent these upper respiratory infections? Or ease the symptoms (besides anti-biotic)? She is so obviously miserable, I just want to help!

Thanks!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Wow...this poor little Doodle baby...another horrible puppy mill story.  I really think all of these great questions about the upper respiratory infections are best asked of your vet.  We can probably help with the food questions (I know Karen can)....please check out the food group...and what are you feeding now?

[Cathy, Fozzie & Shaggy]

Poor baby! She likely doesn't have a lot of energy due to the undernourishment and being sick. I too, just want to sleep and be taken care of when I'm sick. At night is she perhaps waking up because she is in pain/discomfort? You are wonderful for opening your home and heart for Ginger knowing there would be bumps...I wish you the nest of luck.
As for food supplement, I'll let the DK food experts handle that :-)

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Regarding the food, your best bet is a grain-free formula with a high calorie content. Orijen Puppy would be your best bet. 

Puppy mill dogs are born in cages to mothers who spend their lives in cages; they never get to romp and play, and are rarely handled. The fact that Ginger wants to lie in your lap is a very good sign; she craves human contact and affection. She's never really had a chance to run or play, and with being underweight and the respiratory infection, she's probably not feeling much like playing right now. I think as she gets stronger and healthier, she will learn to burn off some of that energy. She's probably uncomfortable from the infection, and that may be contributing to the restlessness at night.

Give her some time. And thank you for adopting her and giving her the life she deserves.   

[Adrianne Matzkin]

I would just give Ginger lots of love and patience. Once she feels better she will be a different puppy. She had a horrendous start to life but she had her littermates. Now she feels miserable and she is 'alone'. She just needs time to know she is safe and loved. Listen to Karen as far as food goes - she is the food maven!

I feel your pain!! This is Mickey's story except I didn't get him out of a vile shelter after he was dumped there before the PM was shut down. He was 4 1/2 months old, 11 lbs underweight, he had a severe case of kennel cough, high fever and there wasn't 1" of him that didn't have an infection! It took time, lots of time but 4 years later you can believe this is the same dog. As I am sure Ginger didn't Mickey never touched grass until he came here.

He is just wonderful but he does have an issue - he is shy with new humans and dogs and probably always will be. We all can live with that.  But once he is your friend he is a friend for life!!!

This is a picture of Mickey the day he started his real life! He was so sad and scared! His tail was always down.

This is Mickey today! What a difference time, love and good groceries can do!

[Lori, Quincy & Frankie]

He looks so strong and sure now!  Gorgeous boy.  

[Maryann,Roo and Tigger]

Thank you for taking Ginger  .  Everyone has given you great advice! Don't hesitate to ask your vet these questions either. 

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Thank you for taking Ginger.  Others have given you any advice  I might have suggested.  Just keep on loving' her.

[Judy, Meg & Polly Wolly Doodle]

Ginger just needs the love and medical attention now.  When her respiratory infections are better she will develop more energy, hard to play when it hurts to breathe.  Once she is better you may want to pick up something like a 'tail teaser' to drag in front of her, Meg goes crazy trying to catch that.  Since she has not had a social life she doesn't know what playing is, as she feels better and you drag tempting toys in front of her you will notice a wonderful, playful change.  In the meantime, enjoy all those cuddles.

[Lori, Quincy & Frankie]

Your hugs and patience will pay off.  Good for you and your family for taking this sweetie into your home.