Expert: Kaza - 10/28/2008

Question
I have a 13 week old puppy who is having a few problem.

1. She always thinks I am playing when I am calling her. I will call her over and she will try and bite my hands or run away when I try to pick her up. I have tried giving her treats when she comes, but she will still try to be playing. What should I do?

2. I was wondering when she will be full grown, and her estimated weight. right now she is about 5 pounds.

3. She whines and barks when ever she is in her crate alone in a room. My family is getting slightly annoyed as I am too.


Answer
This is a very young pup no matter what the breed, as such she requires lessons in socialisation that you must provide.She is not having a few problems ,YOU ARE,by not fully understanding the needs of such a young dog. She will only be able to concentrate for a short while so no more than 10 mins really, games should be interesting and should form part of pack training.If you are getting annoyed with such a young pup, I would suggest that either you contact the breeder and return the pup or, go to a website giving free advice (listed below)
Cover the crate for sleep time with a cotton cover allwoing for air circulation of course. SHe should only be crated for short periods, its not a punishment but her den.
I cannot say how big she will be or what weight she is likely to reach as much depends on her environment and her genetic make up.
Most will be about 11 -12 inches at the shoulder and weigh about 6 kg.
Puppy mouthing is normal, yelp in ahigh pitch, she will soon stop.

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