Life Is So Much Easier Now!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

My DH and I were talking last night about how different things are this Spring versus last year with the Doods.  They are so much easier now that they're a little older.  I decided to post this blog for people who are "in the trenches" with puppies.  Unless they are having "tummy issues" the boys only have to go out to potty four times a day now...and they always tell us when it's time.  They have pretty much stopped destroying toys....the new squeaker toys I bought last week are still fine....yes, this is a miracle.  They never, ever chew anything in the house....they know what's theirs and they leave everything else alone.  Of course, if I don't have the new toys well hidden they WILL find them (Guinness and his amazing nose).  Murph has totally sworn off his counter surfing...that was just a brief period.  The barking has almost completely stopped...there are workmen outside right now putting in a new front walkway, and there wasn't a single "woof" from the guys.  They sleep late....very late. They're fine to be left alone now (although I still keep it to fairly short periods).  I can walk them together now, and I feel confident that they are under control.  They play like true brothers, and they have developed a wonderful bond.  Yesterday, Guinness had one of his "reverse sneezing" episodes, and Murphy was so concerned....he just kept licking his face.  They have both calmed down so much....twenty minutes of ball throwing or a good walk makes them sleep for hours.  They are way less reactive when someone comes to the door.  When the trainer came yesterday he walked right into the house....the boys were sleeping in the kitchen, and all they did was lift their heads.  Guinness walked up to greet him....Murph didn't even move.  It's truly amazing how much a little maturity (and of course training) can change things.  They are a joy, and all the "work" that went into that first year and a half was so worth it.  Clearly, they're not "finished" yet....I want them to be reliable off leash, and that's our next step, and Murph still has a few "quirks" that we're working on.  So, if you've still at that stage where you have days when you want to "pull your hair out"....remember, there's a light at the end of the tunnel.

[DeeDee and Sheila]

I am so glad to hear that.  Sheila is going through a fierce "barking" stage.  She barks way too much.  I have resorted to a shock collar (the kind I hold in my hand, so shock is light, I feel it).  Then I praise and treat for good quiets.  I am amking progress, but it is grueling.  I only do the collar for so long.  And when I can't get to her (like out in the yard).  I am getting kind of discouraged but I don't want to buy one of those collars that auto up the shock.   And she looks right at me after a bark, then I give a warning tone one time and shock for second time.  The shock is more like a vibration.  She is getting the idea, but just gets out of control when she sees a squirrel, mailman or anyone going by the house.  Any suggestions? 

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

And I forgot to add that the bros are good because of their mama - your training has helped immensely and you should be very proud.  And your DH should be thankful he has you to work so hard on training with them! :) :) :) :)

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

So glad the Irish bros are easier now. They are a good team :)

I couldn't agree more.  Peri is a dream compared to 2 years ago.  She can stay in the house alone now and is just a love. 

[Kristine and Charlie]

Thank you so much for thinking of those of us who are in our first year.  Charlie is almost 10 months and, although he has been a pretty calm puppy overall and we do a lot of training (and definately see how it is paying off), he has his moments.  He has been going through a barking phase for the past month...anything new outside or a noise he may hear will get him going.  I can get him to quiet down quickly but these 'moments' happen one too many times throughout the day and can be annoying.  Anyways I'm glad you specifically mentioned the barking, reacting to visitors at the door and going in and out often because I often wonder what next year will be like. :)  Thanks again Jane! 

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

Baby steps, Jane, baby steps!! :)

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Maybe I spoke too soon......the boys worked as a team early this morning and got the stuffing out of the Dinosaur that has been in perfect shape for two weeks.  Oh well, it did last for two weeks.....in the past it would have been "history" in a day.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

JD and I are very proud of the Irish Brothers...and of their mom!

[shelly]

What a great idea for motivation for all of the puppy owners, Jane!  what a difference one year's time makes... And BRAVO to YOU for all of your training! A job well done!  You are MY  Doodle Idol !

[Pam and Ginger Snap]

Thanks for the "light"  Ginger is 6 months and in the throws of puppihood!  I am glad to know, that this too shall pass.  However, the passing of this stage will be bittersweet, because I love so many things they are so puppy!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I am so proud of the Irish brothers and your hard work.  I am sending Ned and Clancy for debarking and door manners. Clancy also needs a remedial course in giving stuffies some respect and space and not gutting them in 3 minutes or less; and Ned needs one in counter surfing.