February 27, 2008

Designating The Outhouse

The Pug breeders gave us a ton of awesome information when we went to pick up the puppy. They were very knowledgeable.

I was too busy getting acquainted with the puppy to remember much of what the breeders told us, but I did listen to the party about teaching him to use the bathroom outside. They suggested that before even taking the baby into the house to see his new home, take him to the part of the yard where we wanted him to use the bathroom.
I did it. We spent a few minutes there and then what did he do? He peed! I was so excited and proud. I gave him tons of praise then we went into the house.
After he looked around the house a while I took him back outside to the puppy poop location for a successful potty training moment. The Outhouse has been established.

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February 24, 2008

Dealing With Aggression In Your Pug

I tried to take a toy away from my Pug and he astonished me by growling in protest.
I was shocked by his aggressive display but I knew that this was the moment to stop it permanently. Without saying a word, I took him by the collar and led him to his timeout area.
There was no reason to speak to him, by showing that I was displeased and banishing him, he was able to be alone and understand the gravity in his mistake.
After about ten minutes, I invited him back into my space so long as he behaved.

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February 22, 2008

Customizing The Puppy Purchase

When Mike first decided that he was going to talk me into owning a Pug Dog, I told him that he had better do his homework first, because he didn't really seem to know what he wanted other than a lab. There are some things to consider before buying a Pug puppy.
There are two types of Pugs to consider, the American bred and the English bred. The American bred is normally taller and lankier while the English bred is heavier, and more stocky.
You also get a choice in the color of Pug you want. They come in three options: black, yellow, or chocolate
Regardless of the options one might choose, every Pug Dog I have ever been around is a loving, eager to please type of pet and it would appear that my little baby is no different.

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February 10, 2008

Creating An Individualized Training System

I have been watching lots of different dog owners and the way they train their dogs in hopes of designing my own personalized Pug training system for me and the little furball.
Some of the trainers I have watched in videos seem absolutely mean like drill sergeants or something.
This puppy is a member of the family, just as if we had brought home a baby instead of a puppy. I expect that it will take a lot of attention, time and effort in order to mold it into a well disciplined member of the family.
It has to be fun or neither of us will want to participate. We will start with one thing at a time, and I have a new special treat recipe to bake up that will be strictly for training rewards.

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February 8, 2008

Crate Training Your Pug Puppy

I wanted the crate to be my Pug puppies' special place, so I put down a blanket inside and threw in some toys and treats. This way it looked like a fun place for her to spend time in.
My Pug puppy poked his head inside and then went all the way to play with his toys and eat his treats. Most of the time, I left the door to the crate open so that he could go inside whenever he chose.
After I took my Pug out for his nighttime pee, I ushered him into his crate for the night. If he sounded like he was in pain or had to relieve himself, I went to check on him; otherwise, I left him alone.
The first three nights were the hardest on us, what with all her wailing! However, I just tried my hardest to ignore it and even on the second night, I could tell she was getting used to it already.

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February 4, 2008

Counting Off The Pug Potty Stops

Every three hours it is a matter of stopping what we are doing and heading outside. Why? Because at eight weeks that is just about the maximum time the little baby can hold his water.
So, it's up every three (sometimes four) hours throughout the night and then again first thing I the morning definitely before coffee, then again after breakfast, and then every three hours throughout the day.
If he takes a nap during the day (which of course he does a lot because puppies are growing so much they need a ton of rest) we go right out upon waking up. After dinner it's potty time again and then one last time just before we go to bed.
Thus is the way the life of a Pug potty training novice. We make about 10 trips outside a day which is fine now, but what about when the snow starts falling? I think, when it snows I'll have to make night time potty duty become a Mike thing.

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February 1, 2008

Contemplate The Amount Of Pug Puppy Care

For anyone who likes puppies, Pug puppies are delightful to have in the home and around the family. However, I have experienced that even though Pug puppies are beautiful creatures, it is important to take care of them, the way you would any member of the family.
Pug puppy care should start with your new puppy being seen by a licensed veterinarian, to have their health checked.
This is important if it is not known about the dog's health history; Meaning, the health of its parents. A full checkup will help ensure you Pug puppy is healthy enough for years to come.
Having a Pug puppy care plan had my new addition starting off on the right paw.

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January 29, 2008

Considering A Rescue Dog?

Often when considering a Pug rescue dog over purchasing a Pug from a breeder, it is natural to wonder what to expect from it. A Pug rescue dog usually ends up in the local animal shelter because they are unwanted.
Most Pug rescue dogs are kind and loving, even after being mistreated by previous owners, and especially after they have been released from the pound.
Therefore like humans, what you can expect from a Pug rescue dog might be a feeling of distrust towards you.
Before it is settled and realizes this is its new home, your Pug rescue dog can show depression and worry wondering if it will be sent back to the pound or moved again.

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January 26, 2008

Considerations In Puppy Parenthood

Mike declared at breakfast today that he intended to get a Pug puppy. I just kind of looked at him and asked Are you prepared to invest a lot of time, money, and energy into raising this puppy? Mike just kind of looked at me with that what the hell are you talking about look.
Puppies are attention hogs. They practically insist on having hours upon hours of undivided attention and supervision as well as the energy to keep up with them before you can count on them behaving appropriately as adult dogs.
Puppies are a huge financial investment as well. Things like health care, room and board, and all the incidental equipment and costs can add up superfast.
I am not against having a Pug dog, I just want to be sure we aren't making a decision like adding a pet to our family just on impulse. This is a huge commitment and we should weigh the decision carefully.

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January 24, 2008

Cold Weather Care For Your Pug

Cold weather care for your Pug is something to plan for. Even in southern locals cold weather is possible.
The more severe your weather is the more precautions you will need to take in the care of your Pug. You can plan ahead for these precautions.
When your Pug has been in the snow and ice carefully inspect his paws. Ice can cut the paws and snow stuck in between the pads can be detrimental.
You can make or purchase clothing for your dog as well. A lot of dogs actually don't mind being dressed up. Some act as though they prefer the clothing.

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