Adolescense/Terrible Twos?

[Sandy]

The last few days Toby has changed a little in his behaviours. First - he is taking things! If Ieave any bedroom/bathroom doors open he will go in and take something. Some examples are - my glasses case, a French/English dictionary, the plunger, socks, etc. He doesn't destroy them, he just takes them and runs through the room as if to say "Look what I found!" If I ask what he's got, don't make a big deal out of it, and ask him to drop it, he does. It's actually kind of funny..... :)

Secondly - he's forgetting a little of his training. DOWN used to be his best thing. He'd drop like a ton of bricks into a lay-down position. Now it takes two or three requests with a treat to get him to do it.

Thirdly - he's been digging in the snow, which is fine, but through the snow right down into the lawn. Dirt is flying! I assume this means he will be a digger when Spring hits, which won't be any fun.

So - is he going through a typical doodle stage, or is he just weird? :)

[Lynda Kamrath]

Yep, a puppy is much like a toddler. He probably is a little bored with the snow outside and needs some attention. So he is trying to get a game of chase going in the house. Try to take him out more for some exercise and exploration. You are lucky he doesn't chew things up - just tries to get you to play with him. Groucho Too chewed up a new pair of my bifocals that were on the nightstand. Taught me to put things up out of his reach. But now he is so tall nothing is out of his reach, but he doesn't "steal" anymore. My suggestion - more time outside if at all possible.

[Janie]

I agree with Lynda.