Expert: Delores Beck - 2/12/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi! This is my first time owning a dog and I really would like to know basic
tips on essential care mostly the basics. He is right now with a trainer but I
went to look at him an he seemed to notice who I was he got all excited. I
could also notice that he is kind of scared of other dogs, he my neighbors
dog and he was behind a door and my dog went running away and then peed.
That is another thing I've detailed he pees a lot but when he gets scared or
excited. These are mostly the things i have noticed he is 6 month old


ANSWER: I don't know what kind of trainer doesn't have you there.  Mostly their job is training the owner :).

So explain to me why you're not participating in his training?

Now..as to his excitement and urinating.  It's very typical of puppies this age and it's just "nervous piddling".  Do not scold him - just clean it up.  I would, however, take a urine sample in to your vet to make sure he doesn't have a urinary tract infection.

I'm happy to help so let's start with what you're feeding him?
How often he's walked every day and for how long?
Delores

Food and exercise are the basics !

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanks and my puppy has only been there for 2 days and the trainer told me to
go on tuesday so... im just giving him dog food three times a day on mornings i
give him milk but just a little he really likes it
i dont walk him but i do give him lots of exercises in my backyard he really gets
tired and thanks for responding it really helped

Answer
Stop giving him milk.  Like NOW!  Make sure he always has access to a bowl of fresh water.  No milk !!!

I need to know exactly what you're feeding?  Label?  Dry food?
Canned?  What brand?

And why don't you walk him?  It's huge fun for him and dogs don't get enough exercise in the backyard.

Okay..you've only had him two days.  Be calm and patient with him.
Is he housebroken?  If not, do you know how to train him?

It'll take a couple of weeks for him to settle down and get used to his new home. Until he's settled, be very low key and try to get him on a schedule.

Please ask me any specific questions at any time - it's what I'm here for :)
Delores