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My puppy won't stay sitting for long, any advice?

When first training your puppy, you should be close enough that you keep his attention at all times. Try feeding him a little treat every couple of seconds so he'll remain where you want him to be. Gradually increase the time between each reward and try to alternate between treats and praise for your puppy's good behaviour. With time he'll learn to understand what you're asking of him and will remain sitting for longer periods of time.
How can I get my puppy to stay for longer?

Firstly, it's important that your puppy understands what the Stay command means. To help with this, say the command and use very small treats to reward him every few seconds for staying in a stationary position. Gradually increase the time between each reward and alternate between treats and praise to reward your puppy's good behaviour. With time he'll understand what you are asking of him and will remain in the same position for longer durations. After this is mastered successfully, you can then try to increase the distance between you and your puppy. Build time first, then distance.
As soon as I move away, my puppy follows. What can I do?

First off, this is normal behaviour for your puppy. He needs to learn what you are asking of him when you give the Stay command. Once this has sunk in, you can then gradually increase the time he stays like this and then move onto distance. If he starts to follow you, it's important to use a verbal marker to let your puppy know he's made a mistake. Use the leash to coax him back to where he was told to Stay and then give the command as you gently pull upwards on the leash to get your puppy back into the Sit position. Puppies learn very fast as long as you remain positive, correct unwanted behaviour and consistently reinforce good behaviour.
How long can I leave him in the Sit position?

When first learning the Stay command, you should only expect your puppy to stay sitting for a short amount of time. It might be just for a second or two. Once your puppy understands the command, it's really up to you how long he stays like this. Many dogs will remain in the sit position for long durations providing they associate the action with a positive experience. Release your puppy with an Ok and be sure to give him lots of praise.
Why does my puppy start barking when I'm out of sight?

There are many reasons why your puppy might start barking when he loses sight of you. Young puppies look to their caretakers for reassurance and may cry out when they find themselves alone. You can work on building your puppy's confidence by playing hide-and-seek games with him and training him to be without you. In a playful way leave your puppy's sight for very short durations and reward him for not barking while you are out of sight. Slowly increase the time that you are out of sight and continue to reward him for not barking while you were away. Gradually your puppy will build his confidence up.
Why can't I get my puppy to stay down?

It's important to remember that you have to help your puppy to learn what you're asking of him. Start by training the Down command and then gradually work on increasing the time your puppy will stay in this position by increasing the time he must remain there before getting a reward. Start with very short durations (a few seconds) and build up the time. Alternate between treats and praise as a reward. Over time, your puppy will learn that he must stay down in order to reap the rewards.
Help! My puppy's legs won't go out in front.

Try luring your puppy's head off to the side as you move your hand towards the ground. This causes the puppy to be slightly off balance and he's more likely to lie down successfully.
Once my puppy is down, he won't get back up. Is this normal?

It's quite normal for your puppy to stay in the down position for an extended length of time. Some puppies enjoy being down because of all the positive reinforcement they get, but it might just be because he's comfortable. To get him back up, try calling his name. Use a happy tone of voice and fun body language. Never pull your puppy out of a command.
My puppy goes down, just not when I say the command. Any tips?

It is important to make sure that your puppy learns the association between the command Down and the action of lying down. The best way to assure your puppy makes this connection is repeated practice with positive reinforcement. Try asking your puppy to Sit and then, with a treat in your hand, slowly move your hand down to the ground. As you make this motion say the command Down. Most dogs will follow your hand down and then lie down to sniff and lick your hand in an attempt to get the treat. Open your hand immediately after your puppy lies down allowing him access to the treat. Praise him and repeat this action again. With time, your dog will learn what it is that you are asking of him.
My puppy always gets distracted. How can I keep him focused?

Puppies have short attention span, and when they're young, it's hard to stay on task for very long. When training, be sure to use a reward he really likes (a special toy or treat is perfect) and act in a playful and energetic way. If he's distracted by his surroundings, try to train him in a calm, familiar environment to keep distractions to a minimum. Once he is successful in this environment, then move to a more challenging setting. As he ages he'll develop the skills necessary to concentrate for longer periods of time, even in busy environments.
Why does my puppy always jump on me?

It's common for puppies to get excited and when they're young, they simply don't understand that jumping on people is not a desired behaviour. It is up to you to teach your dog that jumping on you is not appropriate. Do not reinforce this behaviour in your puppy. When he jumps on you, turn in the other direction and ignore him. Praise him when he has all four paws on the ground. Something you could try is to train your dog to sit next to you (and your guests) in order to be petted. Other people find it useful to train with their puppy on a leash and to use the leash as an anchor to stop the jumping. Either way, it's important to remember to be consistent and reinforce the same good behaviour in as many situations as you can.
Do other words work instead of Come?

It is important to remember that during training you teach your dog how to respond to different words that you choose as commands. Technically, you can train your puppy to respond to any words you'd like, just make sure you're consistent. It's helpful to have a formal recall command that can be used in emergency situations, and a more common command like Here for everyday use.
My puppy won't listen to anyone else. Is this normal?

It is normal for a young puppy to preferentially listen to a caretaker over an unfamiliar person. Your puppy will start to listen to people who act with confidence and authority. Everyone in your household should take part in training your puppy so he learns to listen to them all. The key to getting your puppy to listen to others is consistency. If he understands the meaning behind verbal or visual commands he has the ability to understand anyone who uses these commands appropriately.
How can I stop the leash getting wrapped around my legs?

One tip is to keep the leash gathered up in your dominant hand while training. It should be loose enough that the clip on the leash points towards the ground and is not too tight around your puppy's collar. If you puppy begins to wrap his leash around your legs, stop walking and encourage your puppy back to your side. Sometimes a simple Sit might be useful to regain his attention. Only continue walking when your puppy is at your side and the leash is relaxed. With time, your puppy will learn that in order to keep the walk going he mustn't wrap the leash around you.
I think my puppy is too excited for this. What should I do?

Puppies need to listen even when they're excited. Practice at different times of the day to ensure he listens whether tired or energetic. Sometimes a few simple commands like Sit or Down are a good way to get your puppy's focus quickly.
My puppy gets scared too easily, is this normal?

If your puppy seems a little timid while practicing, do his training in a calm, familiar environment. Slowly build up to more challenging locations. It is important to socialise your puppy to new places, people and objects. If you introduce new things to your puppy in a fun and positive way, he will learn to cope with challenges in a calm and confident manner.
My dog always tries to run off. What can I do?

It takes time to teach a dog what you expect of him. When initially training your puppy, he should be on a leash anytime you are in a location where there is the potential for him to run off. After he's learned to understand commands like Sit, Stay and Come, you can start to work on the same commands, but off-leash. Gradually as you work with your puppy he will learn what is expected of him and you will gain confidence in his ability to follow your commands, even in an open environment.
My puppy can stand up but not turn around. Is the crate too small?

The crate should be big enough that your puppy can stand up and turn around and lie down comfortably, so the simple answer is yes, it appears your crate is too small.
My puppy chews the blanket I put in the crate. What should I do?

Many puppies can get sick from eating the bedding in their crate. The bedding should be removed from the crate if they puppy chews it. Until the chewing phase is resolved, your puppy will be fine sleeping on the crate's bare floor. It is important to provide your puppy with chew toys that are appropriate for him to chew on to occupy his time while he is in the crate.
How do I keep my puppy happy in the crate?

Always be pleasant when putting your puppy into his crate. At first leave the crate door open so he can sniff and explore in his own time. If you see him go inside, give him a reward. After a while, start to shut the door. Reward him each time, so he thinks of the crate as fun, happy place to be. Slowly build up the time he spends in there. By gradually introducing your puppy to his crate, it helps to keep him happy and relaxed. Something you might find useful is feeding your puppy while he's inside the crate or involving it in playtime. Positive association is the best way to keep him happy.
I have a second hand crate. Why won't my puppy go inside?

Be sure that the crate is nice and clean before allowing your puppy to go inside. Your puppy may be smelling another dog and not want to enter the crate. After a while, it will become his own. It just takes a bit of time and practice. After the crate is clean, leave the crate door open and give the puppy a reward every time he enters. Slowly build up the time he spends in the crate. You might want to try playing with your puppy nearby and tossing toys and treats into the open crate. The aim of this exercise is for your puppy to associate the crate with positive experiences so that he learns it's a fun and safe place to be.
Why can't I keep my puppy still?

Puppies, by nature, are very active and inquisitive, but some find grooming uncomfortable or intimidating. It's important to introduce your puppy to any grooming equipment ahead of time and in a positive way. Allow him to sniff everything and hear the different noises made by the equipment during use. Give your puppy treats to reinforce good behaviour, and maybe ask a family member or friend to help out. Grooming is something he'll have to learn, so just be patient and stay positive.
How can I tell if his ears need cleaning?

Flip the ears back and look inside. If you notice any dirt, waxy build-up or if they have a bad smell, the ears need cleaning. Next time you are at the veterinary clinic with your puppy, ask about this. They will provide you with good advice.
I found a flea, what should I do?

The best thing to do is give your puppy a flea bath. Using a good quality flea shampoo from the pet store is ideal. Make sure you read, understand and follow the instructions on the label. If your puppy has a bad infestation, it might be best to consult your veterinarian. They can also offer advice on how to remove fleas from puppy and your home.
My dog keeps scratching. Does he have fleas?

It is possible your dog has fleas but he could be scratching for a variety of reasons. Check his coat for fleas, or dry skin. You can always consult your veterinarian just to be on the safe side.
Can I get fleas too?

With a heavy infestation in bedding or carpet it is possible that fleas may be attracted to humans.
Why does my puppy's breath smell?

This could be caused by your puppy's food or even tartar on his teeth. There are many products that promote dental health in puppies. Make sure you provide him with good quality food, appropriate chew toys and treats to help prevent tarter build-up on his teeth. Otherwise, just try brushing his teeth more regularly, or visit your veterinarian.
My dog seems skinny but I feed him a lot. Is this ok?

The best thing to do is consult your veterinarian if you're really concerned about your puppy's weight.
My dog has a thick coat. Does this mean he's fat?

The Healthy Hug™ technique is a great way to check your puppy. If you can easily feel his ribs then he is not over weight. If you're still concerned after doing this, consult your veterinarian.
My puppy always seems hungry. Can I give him extra food?

Puppies should not be over fed and his diet should be monitored. If unsure, talk to your veterinarian.
Why does my puppy bark at me when I eat food?

Some puppies think that barking at their owner will allow them food. Never feed your puppy for barking at you. Wait until he offers quiet, respectful behavior, it's then up to you whether you share your snack with him or not.
Why won't my puppy fetch stuff when I throw it?

This is a skill that must be taught to some puppies. A training class might be ideal to help with this. Keep in mind that not all dogs will intuitively like to fetch. The best way to promote this behaviour is to make it a very fun game for you and your dog.
My dog always chases other dogs. Is this ok?

It's ok for your dog to chase other puppies as long as it's play behaviour. Often they will take turns chasing each other during play bouts. This is normal behaviour.
My puppy is small, but always barks at bigger dogs. Why?

There are many reasons why your puppy may be barking at other dogs and the motivation behind these vocalisations might just be dependent on the context. If your puppy is very playful and energetic, he may be barking at other dogs to try and entice them to play. If your puppy is unsure of the other dog he may be barking out of fear. In this case, additional socialisation (for example, puppy classes) may be beneficial. It is natural for your dog to vocalise when communicating with other dogs.
I think my puppy bullies other dogs. Is this ok?

A certain amount of rough and tumble play is healthy when your puppy is interacting with other dogs. If this behaviour escalates to an aggressive encounter you should keep your puppy on a leash and try to control his interactions with others. Puppies learn boundaries by playing with other dogs so it is important to let them have these experiences.
My puppy got scratched and now he's afraid of other dogs. What can I do?

To help rebuild your puppies confidence try to introduce him to dogs that you know are sociable and friendly. Make these introductions a very positive and fun experience for your puppy. Stay calm and confident. This will help build confidence and he'll learn that accidents happen sometimes.
When playing with my puppy, we end up playing tug-of-war with his ball. Is it ok to let him keep the ball and 'win'?

The puppy should learn to play with toys under your rules. You should start and stop the game to teach the puppy you're in charge. Playing with toys is a good relationship builder, so keep it up!
My Puppy doesn't know his own name. What can I do?

Before you can do anything with your puppy, you need a sure-fire way to get your his attention. Firstly, choose a name. Once you've done that, say it out loud and when your puppy responds, give him a treat. Start with a food treat, but also use verbal praise and patting too. Your puppy should get the hang of this very quickly and then you can get on with training!
I've tried to teach my puppy his name, but he won't listen. Help!

If you're having trouble getting your puppy to respond, put a treat in front of his nose and move it around until you get his attention. Say his name again, and give him the treat when he responds to you. Don't worry, he'll get there!
My puppy won't walk on a leash no matter how hard I try. Help!

It can take some time for puppies to get used to being on a leash. Try letting him drag a leash inside, just to get him used to it. Once he is moving well and the leash is dragging behind him, gently pick it up and encourage him to walk with you. Use treats and encouragement to reinforce good behaviour and never leave a leash on your puppy unsupervised.
When I walk my puppy, he tries to eat everything! What can I do?

Young puppies tend to investigate everything by putting it in their mouth and on a walk you need to be especially watchful. Walking him on a leash is a great way to keep control.

A good idea is to have treats in your hand to keep your puppy by your side and stop him from wandering off. If he does put something in his mouth, ask him to drop it, draw his attention back towards you, ask him to sit and give him a treat. Make the walk interactive by asking the puppy to stop and sit at corners and intersections, or working on other tasks that keep him occupied along the walk.
I work all day and have to leave my puppy in a crate. Am I hurting him by doing this?

No, you are not. A crate can prevent your dog from getting into mischief while you're gone. However, while he is in his crate he cannot meet some of his needs such as elimination and exercise. It's really important that before you confine him, you make sure these needs are met. He should have time to eat, eliminate and exercise before you place him in his crate and again when you let him out. If you cannot get home in a timely manner you should have someone come to your home and let the dog out, just so he's comfortable.
How do I stop my puppy from eliminating in his crate?

There are many reasons a puppy may eliminate in his crate. If the puppy is kept in a crate longer than he can hold his urine or bowels, then he will have no other choice but to eliminate in his crate. If that is the case, allowing more frequent access to the outdoors is helpful. Make sure you take your puppy outside to eliminate prior to placing him in the crate and when you return home, let him out as soon as possible..

In other situations the puppy is suffering from separation anxiety and defecates when left alone due to anxiety. This problem needs intervention from a veterinarian or behaviourist. Treatment includes teaching the dog how to be more independent, changing departure cues, pheromones and perhaps medication. Your veterinarian can help you with the behaviour issues or referral to an appropriate specialist.
How much exercise does my puppy need each day?

The amount of exercise needed can vary from dog to dog, but a good place to start is with two 15 minute sessions a day. These should be aerobic exercise sessions such as a game of fetch or a nice vigorous walk. If the weather outside is extremely hot, scale back and keep the sessions shorter to avoid overheating your dog. Besides physical exercise, many dogs enjoy 'mental' exercise as well. Try to spend 10-15 minutes a day on obedience tasks like sit, down and come.
Why does my puppy lick me?

Licking in dogs is an appeasement behaviour. It's a way for dogs to tell each other 'I like you and I am not going to threaten you'. When a dog licks a human they are telling us the same thing. Dogs may also lick for other reasons. Puppies lick to solicit solid food from their mothers, so young dogs may lick to request food from you. Some dogs may lick as a substitute for mouthing behaviour i.e. biting. It might, however, just be something on your hands or clothes they like the smell or taste of. If the licking is excessive, it is ok to gently turn the dog's head away and tell them to stop.
Will running with my puppy hurt his paw pads?

If a puppy is running on rough terrain, sharp objects, or very hot pavement, there could be damage to the footpads. The best thing is to introduce him to it slowly. This way the footpads become tougher and are able to withstand the stress of running. Check his feet daily to be sure there are no sore spots and also watch him move so you can detect any muscle pain. It's also really important to provide plenty of water and a good quality diet on a daily basis.
What's the best way to put weight on a puppy?

If your puppy is underweight, the first step is to determine if it's health related. A fecal examination should be done by your veterinarian and in some cases additional blood tests might be a good idea too. If all the medical tests are fine, then a complete and balanced diet is a good next step.
Can I feed my puppy cat food?

Cats and dogs have different nutritional needs and their diets are specifically formulated to meet these requirements. Feed your dog a good quality 100% complete diet specifically designed for his lifestyle, size and age.
Do I need to supplement my puppy's diet?

No, you shouldn't need to supplement your puppy's diet if he's eating a complete and nutritionally balanced pet product. However, there are products designed for various life stages and health needs, so make sure you pick the one that's most appropriate for your puppy.
I have a puppy and an adult dog. Can they eat the same food?

Generally speaking they should not. Puppies are growing and usually have higher activity levels. This means they have a greater nutritional need than a less active adult dog. Get food that's appropriate for each dog's stage of life.
How often should I trim my puppy's nails?

Nails should be checked weekly, but if your puppy is exercised frequently, especially on harder surfaces, there may not be a need to trim his nails very often. The best way to judge is too look at the nails and see if they are long and pointed. If the nails are quite long, then they need to be trimmed. If they just barely touch the ground when the dog is standing, they are probably ok. Watch out for dewclaws (nails that do not touch the ground). As they don't face the same daily wear and tear as other nails, they often grow long, or curl if they aren't trimmed.
My puppy cut his paw. Can I give him a pain reliever like aspirin?

It's never a good idea to give your pet an over the counter medication without approval from your veterinarian. Dogs and cats do not respond to human medications the same as we do, and in many cases, may have difficulty metabolising the medication. Paw injuries can be quite deep, and often stitches are necessary to prevent further damage and promote healing. In many situations antibiotics are advisable to prevent infection too. Contact your veterinarian for appropriate treatment.
What causes my puppy to lose hair in certain places?

Dogs can lose their hair for several reasons. It may be due to a skin infection, allergies, hormonal imbalances, or even skin parasites. In order to make a definitive diagnosis, your puppy should be examined by a veterinarian.
I just got a puppy and was told he was 6-7 months old. Is there any way I can find out his age?

It's difficult to determine a dog's exact age but we can get close using a few different parameters. Young dogs will get their adult canine teeth around 6-8 months of age. If those are already in then he's at least 6 month old. Another method is to look at the rate of growth and the behaviour your puppy is exhibiting. If he meets the standard parameters for this age group, then he's probably in the 6-7 month range.
Can I bring a puppy home before 7 weeks of age?

It's usually recommended that puppies go to their new homes around 7-9 weeks of age. This gives them time to learn from their littermates and mother while still ready to bond with a new family. Before bringing home a new puppy make sure you have planned for his arrival and have time to spend house training and interacting with your new puppy. It's also a good idea to plan veterinary visits too.
When can a puppy leave its mother for a new home?

A puppy can leave its mother for a new home when he's weaned and eating solid food well, usually around 7-9 weeks of age. This allows him time to learn social skills from his mother and litter mates, be comfortable eating solid food and an ability to learn new tasks like house training and socialization with humans.
I have cats. What's the best way to introduce a puppy to them?

If cats have not grown up with a dog, their first response will likely be to run and hide. Over time, if the dog does not chase, bark or lunge at them, they often learn to coexist or even like the dog. It is important that introductions are conducted while the dog is on a leash. Allow the cats to approach the dog, but do not force an interaction. Make sure the cat always has an escape route and a safe place that the dog cannot reach. The introduction could also be done while the dog is in a crate. This way the cat can feel safe to approach the dog on her own terms.

Use treats to help the dog associate calm and quiet behaviour with them. When you cannot supervise, separate them so that the cats can easily get to their litter boxes and food.
My puppy is young, but still can't control his bladder. Is this normal?

When a puppy is first born, they do not urinate or defecate on their own, but are stimulated by the licking motions of the mother when she cleans them. Around three weeks of age they will begin to eliminate on their own. Later, as they move more readily, they will begin to move away from the sleeping area to eliminate. Better bladder control usually begins around 6-7 weeks of age, but in some dogs may not be achieved until they are older. The best time to begin housetraining is at about 6-8 weeks of age. At this age, the brain-to-gut connections become effective and puppies begin to learn proper elimination behaviour.
How can I tell if my puppy needs to eliminate?

For some dogs signaling that they need to go outside to eliminate is the most difficult step in house training. In some cases, asking the dog "do you want to go out" and waiting for some type of excited behaviour before taking them to the door will help them realise that the excited behaviour gets the door opened. In most situations they learn to let the family know when they need to eliminate as they get older.
My puppy won't leave my older dog alone and we can't seem to break this behaviour. Help!

Puppies are usually active and sociable, so he may like to be near other dogs. It's actually a good opportunity for your puppy to learn social signals and boundaries from the older dog. In most cases, the two dogs will get along just fine. However, when the other dogs in the home are quite elderly, a new puppy can be overwhelming. In some cases, it might be best to separate the puppy from the older dog to allow rest and alone time in a quiet place. It can also help to use a leash on your puppy so that he can be easily redirected to more appropriate play targets and activities. Be sure to praise the right behaviour while redirecting what you do not like.
My boyfriend and I work 9-5 but we really want a puppy. Will this be ok?

Obtaining a puppy is a big commitment and should be carefully considered. A puppy needs daily care, training and social interaction to help it learn and grow. He'll need lots of daily exercise too. If you are gone long hours, it might be best to wait until you have the time to commit to caring for a puppy. Adopting an older dog may be a better option.
I am twelve years old and go to school and come back at 3:30pm. Can I still take care of my first dog?

Since your parents will be helping you care for this dog, be sure you have their permission and willingness to have a dog in the home. They're likely to be responsible for veterinary cost and this can be very expensive. A puppy will need to be let outside every 2-4 hours when it is young, so being alone all day may be a bit too long for him. Puppies need a great deal of care, so time must be set aside for daily walks and playtime, as well as training. In order to have a well-behaved puppy that everyone wants to be with, you need to be ready to devote at least 15-30 minutes every day training him how to live in the household. Your dog will also need plenty of time to play and exercise. It's important to remember dogs can live to be 10 or 15 years old, so you must be committed to caring for this dog its entire life.
My puppy is constantly biting everything. What can I do to stop this?

Young dogs explore environments with their mouth. They'll pick up and chew on anything! This is normal, but probably annoying too. Puppies go through a teething phase and are likely to chew on stuff, as it helps in this process- but it might just playful behaviour or signs of boredom. The best thing to do is re-direct the behaviour to appropriate toys. It's a good opportunity for you to teach your puppy which items are ok. Try to supervise whenever possible.

When he nips and bites at you, he's trying to learn how much pressure causes pain, and in turn, how to control his strength. It's good to let out a loud yelp, so he knows he's caused pain. If he still plays too wildly, either walk away or isolate your puppy until he's calm. If the problem is ongoing, consulting with your veterinarian may also help.
How do I teach my puppy not to bite when he plays?

A puppy may engage in play biting as a form of social interaction. When puppies play with one another there is a great deal of wrestling and play fighting that occurs. During these encounters the puppy is learning how to inhibit the force of his bite. When he bites another puppy too hard, that puppy will yelp and probably run away. In this way a puppy learns that he was too rough. People need to do the same when they play with their puppy. If the puppy uses his teeth on human skin, the person should loudly yell 'ouch' and walk away. This will help the puppy learn to play softer and hopefully inhibit biting during play.
How can I stop my puppy jumping on me?

Often puppies jump up as a greeting or an invitation to play. If we interact with the puppy in any way, even by touching them to push them away, the puppy may see that as reinforcement for jumping. One of the best ways to deal with jumping is to simply walk away and not have any interaction with the puppy if they jump up on you. If your puppy were jumping on company, one of the best ways to control him is by using a leash. Also instruct company to ignore the dog in the same way; turn their back to the jumping dog. Pet or pay attention to the dog when he stands quietly or sits next to them. This reinforces good behaviour.
My puppy is four months old and not barking yet. Is this abnormal?

While every breed of dog can bark, some puppies (and dogs) do not bark much at all. Learning, experience and opportunity often determine how much barking a dog actually does. Some will bark for things they want, others only bark in extreme circumstances. Although most dogs can be taught to bark, it's likely that your puppy will learn to do this himself over time. Be careful what you wish for!
My puppy growls and barks after being punished. Is this natural?

There are many reasons a puppy may bark or growl after you reprimand him. In most cases your puppy is a bit fearful and defensive. It's important to make sure you're not too harsh or physical. In many cases it is possible to divert a puppy from inappropriate behaviour using a noise and then a toy to get them distracted.
My puppy has problems getting used to strangers. How can I help this?

Some puppies are very fearful and anxious around new people. The most common way to handle this is just to give him space and he'll get used to them over time. Stay calm and confident. Do not pet him when he is acting fearful, as it teaches him that it's an appropriate behaviour. Instead, reward him when he is calm. For some puppies, using treats will help them learn that new people bring good things. It is important to expose your puppy to many new people, places and things as possible. The more things he's exposed to in a safe and positive way, the less fearful he'll be. He will learn to approach the world in a calm and confident manner.

If the situation worsens, you should seek help from a qualified behavioural specialist.
My puppy urinates when he's excited or scared. Will this stop?

It is quite common for young dogs to urinate when excited or scared. Crouching low to the ground, looking away and urinating are all social signals that a dog would use to let another dog know that they were not a threat to them. Many young dogs will respond this way to people too. The problem is often helped by keeping greetings very low key, ignoring your dog when you first come home and not bending over or reaching for the dog when he's excited. Scolding is not useful and can actually make the problem worse since the dog is trying to avoid a confrontation. Teaching the dog to sit for a treat to greet everyone can help turn an anxiety producing situation into a happy one.
My puppy has a problem with clinging to everyone. What can I do?

It's likely your puppy is clinging to people for reassurance. Training him or giving things to occupy his time may help to boost confidence and help him to become more independent. It's important to provide daily exercise and show him that attention is only received for calm and quiet behaviour. Otherwise, a leash can help control unruly and excitable puppies indoors as well as outdoors. Remember, a puppy will not choose the proper behaviour unless he is taught what that is.
I've tried to teach my puppy his name, but he won't listen. Help!

If you're having trouble getting your puppy to respond, put a treat in front of his nose and move it around until you get his attention. Say his name again, and give him the treat when he responds to you. Don't worry, he'll get there!
Yesterday, we brought our puppy home for the 1st time. He seems to sleep a lot and hasn't eaten anything since he's been here. Should we be worried?

While your puppy may be tired from his journey and all the excitement, he should still be eating and drinking. Make sure you offer food that he's used to (e.g. wet as opposed to dry). Try to interact with him. If you find it hard to get a proper response, your puppy could be ill. A veterinary examination should help determine what's really going on.
My puppy has bad gas and won't eat much. What could have caused this?

Intestinal gas and loss of appetite could signal any number of problems. An infection or inflammation in the intestinal tract often leads to gas and may be irritating enough to cause the dog not to eat. If the problem persists for more than a day, contact your veterinarian.
Is it ok to switch between pet food products/flavors?

It's generally best to stick with one type and flavor of pet food. Frequent changes can lead to vomiting or diarrhea and should be avoided. If you do need to change food for a health or lifestyle reason, always transition slowly over a 7-10 day period.
I have 2 dogs and feel I put in enough food for both, but one dog is eating more and gaining weight. What should I do?

It is not uncommon for a dog that's allowed unlimited access to food to eat more than he needs and become overweight. To avoid this problem, it's best to measure out the necessary food for each dog and separate them at feeding time.
Should you feed puppies table scraps?

It is not a good idea to feed your puppy table food on a regular basis. Not only might it upset his digestive system causing vomiting or diarrhea, it's not a good idea nutritionally. Using some table food to occasionally give medication is acceptable, but the majority of your dog's diet should be a good quality dog food from a reputable company with years of experience in pet nutrition. Begging at the table can be an annoying and difficult habit to break. Stick with dog food, it's better for your pet.
My puppy is losing his baby teeth, what should I feed him?

Baby teeth are replaced with permanent teeth around 4-6 months of age. Since not all the teeth fall out at one time, a dietary change is not usually necessary. Some puppies may decrease their intake a bit while this is happening, but significant loss of appetite is not usually noted.
My puppy understands simple commands, but chews on anything but his chew toys. Any thoughts?

The main method that a puppy has to investigate his surroundings is by putting things in his mouth. Combine that with teething, and chewing is going to occupy a great deal of a puppy's time. The first step is good supervision and to make sure you know where your puppy is at all times. The second step is providing a safe place where he can stay when unsupervised that has been cleared of all items the puppy can damage. Slowly over time as he matures and chews less he can have a bit more freedom, but that is not likely until he's 8-10 months old.
When my puppy is alone, I think he eats his stools. Why does this happen and how can I resolve it?

Although objectionable to us, the eating of stool is common in puppies. If he is defecating while you're gone all day, he's probably being left alone too long and can't wait to eliminate. The best way to prevent stool ingestion is to go outside with him and when he eliminates, quickly praise him and move away so he can't eat it. Clean it up quickly. Over time, this behaviour should decline.
Should my puppy have a veterinary check-up every month?

When you get your puppy, he will need regular veterinary visits to check his health and begin vaccinations. In some cases you may need to go more frequently, but your own veterinarian should give you a proper schedule to adhere to.
My puppy has a soft lump on his stomach, but it doesn't seem to bother him at all. Can you tell me what it is?

It is possible that your puppy has an umbilical hernia. These occur when the muscle of the abdomen does not close completely over the place where the umbilical cord was when he was in the uterus. Depending on the size of the opening it can become a serious problem because a small piece of intestine could slip through the opening and get caught. The best thing you can do is consult a veterinarian.
Our puppy is 16 weeks old and still has diarrhea with every bowel movement. Is this normal?

Ongoing diarrhea is not normal in a puppy. It actually could be a sign of some serious health problems. The most common cause is intestinal parasites, but it could be a number of things. The best thing to do is consult your veterinarian. Be sure to bring a stool sample when you take your puppy for examination so that she can be checked for parasites.
What causes soft puppy stools to come and go? Please help!

If your puppy's stool softens often, it may be a sign of intestinal parasites or an inflammation in the intestinal tract. Puppies are usually quite inquisitive and ingest all sorts of different things that can cause diarrhea. A veterinary visit is a good first step. A fecal sample can be checked for parasites and the abdomen palpated to check for foreign bodies and possible blockage.
I have a really hyper puppy. What can I do?

Young puppies are full of energy and require lots of exercise, training and supervision. Daily play and training sessions will increase control and channel his energy in a more appropriate way.
What age can I first take my puppy to obedience classes?

A puppy begins to learn about his new home and the environment the minute you bring him home. Therefore, it is never too early to begin socialization and training. Many communities offer puppy classes designed solely for puppies between 8-20 weeks of age. These classes teach basic manners and how to respond to simple commands. They also cover important topics like housetraining, chewing, digging and other typical puppy bevaviours. It is essential that whatever class you choose is designed for puppies, uses positive reinforcement techniques and allows time for socialization with people and other puppies. Remember to vaccinate your puppy fully before attending these sessions.
Why does my puppy dig holes in the back yard?

There are many reasons a puppy might dig in the ground. It might just be for fun, to find a cool place to lie down, or even digging for prey. To help stop the digging you should supervise your puppy outside and quickly redirect his behaviour to something more appropriate when he starts to dig. When left to their own devices, puppies will often choose behaviour we don't like, so just make sure you provide him with appropriate activities.
How do I stop my dog from chasing cars?

Chasing or running after cars is often seen in dogs from herding breeds. This can be a very dangerous habit since they can get hit by the car. The first step is to never to allow your dog outside unattended, and always keep him on a leash, especially near roads. This will allow you to praise and reward good behaviour.
My puppy won't play with me. What should I do?

A young, healthy puppy should have periods of play and periods of rest. If your puppy is not willing to play, has diarrhea, vomiting or lack of weight gain, he may be ill. Contact your veterinarian and have him examined, just to rule out a medical problem.
Is eating grass harmful to my puppy?

Generally speaking, eating grass is not harmful. It seems some dogs just like the taste. Eating grass is fairly common in dogs with intestinal irritation, and if it's accompanied by vomiting and/or diarrhea, a veterinary visit is in order.
Can dogs sweat?

Dogs only have sweat glands on the pads of their feet and no where else on their body. They mainly cool themselves through panting. In hot weather it's extremely important that dogs have plenty of shade, cool water and when the heat is extreme that they can come indoors.
My puppy won't stay at my side and pulls on the leash when we walk. What can I do?

Dogs pull when walking on a leash for several reasons. The first is purely mechanical and based on the dog's nature. They tend to pull against pressure, so when you pull backwards with the leash the natural tendency for the dog is to pull in the opposite direction! Second, the dog is often anxious to smell new things and move quickly. Try talking to your puppy as you walk, to keep his attention. Use treats and praise to keep him at your side. You can also try stopping and calling the puppy back to you when he is pulling away. Ask him to sit or wait before you continue walking. Eventually your puppy will learn that for the walk to continue, the pulling must stop.
Do you recommend crate training for a new puppy?

New puppies can get into trouble if left to their own devices, so some type of confinement can be useful for both housetraining and to prevent accidents. A puppy should be introduced to the confinement area in a positive manner using treats and praise and never left for extended periods of time. It is extremely important that a puppy is given adequate time outside of confinement to exercise, eat, eliminate and become socialized to the world they live in. Never use a crate as punishment or as an excuse not to interact with your puppy.
What's the safest way for my puppy to ride in the car?

Because of possible injury, some type of restraint is the safest way to travel with your puppy in the car. The most common types are doggy seat belts (harnesses) and crates. Always make sure you introduce your dog to the restraint method in a positive way and with short car rides to avoid any adverse reactions.
My puppy has stuff around his eyes. It's especially thick in the morning and decreases throughout the day. What is this?

Discharge from the eyes usually indicates an infection. If the discharge is appearing daily, prevents the eye from opening, or the eye is reddened, a veterinary visit is in order. Because the eye is a delicate and vital organ, it's important to see a veterinarian as early as possible.
My puppy has a blister on his foot. What should I do?

It is not uncommon for dogs to get injuries or infections in between their toes. If left untreated these often fester and become severely infected. If the problem is ongoing, visit your veterinarian.
My puppy has stinky ears. Are they infected?

Regular cleaning of the ears as part of a grooming routine is important. Usually when there is an odour from a dog's ears, it means they are either infected, dirty, or have a foreign object in them. You might be able to tell by picking up one ear and checking for redness and/or discharge. If the odour persists, a veterinary visit is needed.
My puppy has dandruff. Help!

Some dogs experience dryness to their skin and coat, especially in the winter months. Try brushing or bathe him with a mild dog shampoo. If you notice skin lesions or an odour, then it might be another problem that needs to be examined by your veterinarian. Make sure your puppy is fed a balanced, good quality diet. This will help him grow a healthy coat.