One Year...Nothing to Fear?

[Linda Kay]

Hi,

Many of the behaviors described in this group are just like the ones Ivy displayed. Teeth falling out (several at a time), suddenly running to the window and barking (9 months), chewing up the floor, sofa, shoes, etc. If you find a book on raising puppies, it will explain that all of this is quite normal and part of development from puppyhood to pre-adolescence, etc.

Now that ours has just turned one, I'm happy to say she listens much better than a few months ago. She is still very active, but unfortunately, the chewing continues. She has now set her sights on our book shelves and has been dwindling down my collection one (or two) books at a time. We could use some help in how to handle her latest delicacy.

Hang in there folks, it will get better (most of the time). Keep them busy and give positive feedback for good behaviors. Oh yea... and have a lot of patience!

[Carla, Lucca and Izzy]

There is a light at the end of the tunnel!!! Lucca is 9 months now and has calmed quite a bit. He just started doing that barking at the window and door. He really barks at strangers. Not on walks but if they come to the door. I am having my mailman give him a treat because he seems to bark more at uniforms. Sorry about your books. Other than spaying them with bitter apple or removing them until she's older I can't think of anything else. Luca hasn't discovered the book shelves yet but everyone in this house knows not to leave ANYTHING down low. This includes shoes, socks, pens, books, garbage pails (loves kleenex) etc!! Maybe Ivy wants to become "book smart"!!

[Sue & Willy Babe]

Wilson is now a year old also Yea can't believe it he is doing well I still have to work hard on him coming when I call his name especially when we are at the neighbors and he wants to go two doors down so see another dog, or he will go and then smell some flowers. I am using the word STOP in a deeper tone so I am optimistic that would work. Hopefully

[Susan, Zeke. Lily & Jasper]

Oh I agree! One year is a definate milestone with fewer " wild puppy" behaviors. When these do occur I have to remind myself that they are still puppies. Zeke still has the occasional chewing problem and Lily's bad girl stunt is escaping when the door is opened and not comimg when called. Looking forward to age two!