normal labradoodle puppy behavior

[brittany mead]

He All,

i recently got a golden doodle puppy from a lady who was trying to get them  homes.  i understand he is still a puppy but he doesn't like to be around me or my family.  He will go off into a dark room by himself and not come out when we call him.  If he is sleeping on the floor and i pick him up to cuddle with him he will want to get off 5 seconds later and go on the floor away from me to sleep.  The person home was not very clean and i noticed that he has fleas.  Right now he is 8 weeks old, i don't know if this is normal behavior for the breed or if i have cause to be concerned.  if anyone could give me some  insight that wold be great!

[Julie and Charlie]

After you determine that he's healthy, or on his way...

I would agree that it takes a few days to get adjusted-- puppies of this age shouldn't really be left to roam the house! One, they might get "lost" or stuck somewhere (mine was ok going up the stairs, but down was an issue for the first few days!), and two, they will attempt to potty everywhere! I would recommend tethering him to you or to furniture near you- and always take him with you when you go somewhere in the house! Depending on the dog's personality, they can go through stages of loving to cuddle or just accepting a quick pet and moving on. And then begin the socialization suggestions that have already been mentioned.

[brittany mead]

thank you everyone for the advice! I did get an earlier appointment and taking him to vet tomorrow.ill keep you posted !

[Jarka, Monty & Auggie]

Oh, thank goodness. Please keep us posted!

[Leslie J]

Cocoa came from a healthy background but I do remember at 8 weeks she slept most of the time- just like a human baby.  It may be he is just very tired wants to sleep.  I'm sure if you socialize him now he'll be fine.  I'm glad you got an earlier vet appointment to be safe.

[brittany mead]

yea I'm just worried if he is unsociable i won't be able to properly correct the behavior.  I work full time and he has to be in the crate while i am at work.  I am considering re-homing him to someone that will be able to give him the attention he needs to work with him on this and be a happy lovey puppy!  i really appreciate all the help and advice  everyone has given me!

[Vivian & Mojo]

I personally don't think its good for a puppy sociable or unsociable to be in a create all day. Puppies that young need to pottie often and need training. You would do better with an adult trained dog. 

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I totally agree. 

[Marnie, Stanlee's Mom]

My older dog was crated while I was at work but I was able to go home at lunch to exercise and take him potty.  This lunch break was perfect for both of us.

[Vivian & Mojo]

Brittany how many hours is your puppy left in the crate between potty break?. Puppies that age need to go out more than a lunch break. My puppy at 8 weeks had to potty at least every hour.

[Kim]

It's probably best that you give him to someone that will love him and take care of him properly.

[Vivian & Mojo]

I agree Kim, I'm so worried about this little puppy. Brittany I hope you will keep us informed as we really care about all doodles on this site and I have lost sleep on several occasions worrying.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Please contact the DRC if you are going to re-home this puppy. They will find him the best home possible.

http://doodlerescue.org/