Comment

Comment by Laura Rochette on September 25, 2011 at 6:44am

I will repeat some things here, but just to let you know you are not alone:

1. Lucy generally likes the grass, but she will poop anywhere that seems handy, including rocks.

2. Crate training is essential to potty training. Lucy is nearly 5 months now, but she has made huge progress with length of time she can go between potty breaks. Crate, and now her pen, played a role here. And a schedule. It did take Lucy a little while to let me know she has to go. She does it now with a low woof, but sometimes she just looks at me very intently as if communicating telepathically. I look at the clock and realize it's time!

3. Lucy is nearly 5 months and weighs close to 13 lbs. I too was worried about her size but folks here on MyCorgi and my vet both told me she was healthy; she may have a lightly smaller build, but she has muscle and is growing appropriately. I did start adding a little peanut butter or yogurt to her kibble a few times a week.

4. Lucy does not shed much right now either. I'm grateful.

5. Lucy sleeps in her crate at night and will do so until I'm convinced she is completely trained. After that, I will graduate her to a comfy bed of her own, in part because my 2 cats "own" my bed and, being 12 year old cats, won't share.

6. Lucy is hysterically funny when playing with her favorite chew toy--puppy opera!!

 

By the way: I am a first-time dog owner as well. I learned a lot through some research, from MyCorgi and from the obedience class I took. Most important thing: have patience with the puppy (and yourself)--some things take a while.

Comment by Christine and Meeko on September 23, 2011 at 12:59am

thanks everyone, i feel better :)

Comment by Kathryn Harbour on September 22, 2011 at 11:40am

The first year is both joyous and anxiety ridden.  You are learning each others habits and body language, trying to learn to communicate with each other, and trying to find time just to have fun.  It is all these things combined that will create an unbreakable bond between you and make you forever best friends, so hang in there--it does get easier and the joyous part of your relationship will win out in the end.

Comment by Jennifer Markley on September 22, 2011 at 11:35am

1)  Seanna pees/poops in the weirdest places.  Especially on walks.  She'll just squat in the middle of the road, sidewalk, rocks, dead things, whatever....

2)  Jackson goes BALLISTIC with his squeaky toys.  Cries, whines, growls, shakes all over...I'll post a video today.

3)  Not sure.

4)  Probably not.  Give him some time to get bigger before making decisions.  He should have just a thin layer of muscle over his ribs.  You should notice a tuck at his waist, but not a severe one. 

5)  Be thankful.

6)  It took me forever to figure out when Seanna was telling me she had to go.  Just start really paying attention to what he does.  She'll come and stand on me and stare me down when she has to go.

7)  Totally agree with the kennel.  You must have them under complete control until potty trained.  Kennel training Seanna was the best thing I ever did- even though I hated it because she couldn't snuggle with me.  Take him out frequently....especially after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up.  Good luck!

Comment by Sandy Stickney on September 22, 2011 at 10:45am

Hi Christine!  I have found that this website is a great resource. There are a lot of smart people on here (see other replies to your post).  I am not one of them, but in addition to the great tips you have been given, I would also recommend enrolling in a formal training class.  I found a local dog training club which focuses on showing dogs, but they offer classes to the general public, and it was very helpful. (I am sure you will be able to find something similar where ever you are.)   I have been a dog owner for many years, but just recently discovered/realized that I really didn't know what the heck I was doing.  I think it's important to start establishing the rules early for a well adjusted, well behaved dog (and wish I had known this sooooo many years ago!)  Especially with these corgis.  They are super smart and can be stubborn.   Good luck!

Comment by Jane on September 22, 2011 at 9:22am

His weight is fine. Wait until he's older for the shedding, he still has his puppy coat at that age. I agree with Sam, too much freedom too soon with the potty training. Does he pee in his kennel overnight without trying to wake you up?

Comment by Sam Tsang on September 22, 2011 at 9:09am

Hi Christine, 

no, he is not the only one.

no, he is not the only one

it depends on the raw hamburger, some dogs are allergic to beef

no, he is not under weight

no, wait for it

yes - see faq

neither at this point

he pees in your bed because he has too much freedom too soon, see - faq

he cannot, crate training will help him hold better, see - faq

yes, your mother is correct, see - faq in proper crate training

yes it is, but we are went through it and so will you, hang in there :)