Puppies: November 2007 Archives

My news is that I have got one of my puppies back for a bit of training.  Before he completed his course of vacinations he came down with a bad tummy bug, hence the vet said he was NOT allowed out anywhere and of course the bug left him feeling very hungry so he started to 'guard' his food and protect any treat or chew. Without realising that boredom, frustration and hunger, a very bright munster had decided to be 'boss', and because of his illness he was allowed to get away with his possessive behaviour.
He has now been here a couple of days and already a different puppy (only thirteen weeks old) been out with us everywhere, the girls giving him confidence especially Ruby his litter sister  (who always was little miss bossy britches) and we are doing positive rewards.  I sit on the floor with his bowl of food in between my knees and hand feed him his dinner from his dish. When he has a chew, bone or toy and I want it back, especially when it's something taken out of the wash basket, he quickly knew the word sausage (cold cooked Morrison's special) and we do an exchange.  Just shows how quickly things can start to go wrong.

You couldn't want a more loving family trying to do their best but puppies need/must be socialised from an early age and don't take for gospel the amount it says give a puppy to eat from the packet. I have more than doubled the amount it said, in fact I fed till he was full and the poo's stayed 'normal'.If anyone else has experienced this type of behaviour - I call it possessive rather than aggressive - as he is the most loving little boy that you could want - love to hear any more helpful techniques. Will try put a pic up of him with some of my girls.

Wendy

How old is Ekko now?  Grace gone to live at Connahs Quay - anywhere near you.  Would love to come over when the weather is a bit warmer with Ruby.  

Linda and all other munsters owners come and enjoy Nat Apt Day nr Kelso this June - an excellent day, lovely atmosphere, good food, help and advise if needed, to join in or watch in a beautiful setting.  Pick up training ideas or just chat munsters - put it in your next years diary - sorry Helen (Field Trial Sec) pinching your ardour but it is such a good day for all.
Pic of Ruby cuddling up to gran Abbie after her walk.  Wendy

Also well done to all this weekends show entrants - good photos, any chance you could put pedigree name on as well as pet name for those of us with memory failure !!

Just to update you on Grace - couldn't go to Kelso today - landlord wouldn't allow a third dog, big disappointment all round.  Possible new owners coming next weekend  - won't say another word, don't want to tempt fate, but keeping fingers and toes crossed.  Grace is such a lovely pup - will try put picture up of her just taken.  Wish I could keep both Ruby and Grace.