SpikesPuppy

Hi The first 16 or so weeks of your pup's life are the most important of all. Especially for socialisation purposes. You need to expose your pup to as many new experiences as possible, but also prevent her from having bad or frightening experiences, and of course you need to protect her from disease. Meeting other vaccinated dogs (on private property is best, or at least an area where dog's aren't common) who are good with puppies, and preferably ones who will tell a puppy when 'enough is enough' adn teach it doggy manners is much advised. Puppy Pre School is highly recommended by many people- and can be a great place to get advice, meet other puppy owners and have your dog meet other puppies and you also learn basic commands. My youngest dog is 19 weeks old, until she was fully vaccinated I carried her everywhere (taking several sheets of newspaper with me in case she needed to toilet) I could. I took her into shops, I took her to cafes and sat outside with her on my lap, took her to the local primary school, train station, shopping strip, in the car, on the train, pretty much anywhere I could think of to expose her to as much as possible. We also attended puppy pre school. However she is only a small breed (will mature under 10kg), so this was relatively easy. If your pup is bigger it wont be so easy but I still recommend getting her out and about. If the dogs your pup mixes with are vaccinated then there shouldn't be any problems at all Also, if you google 'puppy socialisation' and similar, you will find lots of information about socialisation- I found a few 'checklists' which I printed off and ticked off the different things my pup and I did. Good luck with your little girl What breed is she?

I would keep your daughter away from him while eating, but teaching him to accept your presence when he is eating is important IMO. What I do with pups is give them a small amount of their food (nothing they really like like a bone, I use kibble) and depending on the dog, gently ask it to look at you, then give it a yummy treat. Eventually, you should be able to have the dog looka t you while you drop a treat into it's bowl, and then you should have a dog who will allow you to sit with your hand in it's bowl while it is eating. So the dog associates you with yummier food... with good things. But you have to be careful with this, and as I understand it your pup is a rescue so may never be completely comfortable with you around hm whilst eating. This is what I have done with my last 3 pups and I can take anything from them upon request (even bones/chicken frames from my 19 week pup)which is especially useful if they pick something nasty up on the street etc.

I haven't tried it, nor heard of it but if you check the ingredients and compare them to products like Frontline, Advantage, etc, that might give you an idea? Maybe also try a quick google?

I would use the Lort Smith without hesitation- in emergencies they have been fantastic and they accept payments as well as offering health care/pensioner discounts. If your pup is small, you can take him/her on the tram to the LS. Where abouts are you? Personally, we use Yarraville Village Animal Hospital for our general vet needs, and the clinic is a 5 minute walk from the station. However I can't tell you the costs of desexing as I haven't had anyone done in years!!! But we just completed puppy school there and it was quite good, most of the class is done on-lead with a short play session or two if the pups are compatible (so no free for alls which can damage a pup's temperament) and it is all positive/reinforcement based.

Thnaks everyone. We had our check up today and the vet is very pleased with him She said pretty much the same thing as people said here, put him on Glucosamine & fish oil and a supplement like Joint Guard if he needs it or as a preventative (Have ordered a tub). She doesn't want to give him the injections yet, I will take him back in a month and we will see how he is going, or can go back earlier if I think he needs it. bcause of his size, he ages around a year each month, or so we figured anyway. Spike has been going to the same vet since we got him, and did puppy school there, so he loves her and she knows him pretty well too. Oooh he hasn't lost his cheekiness either!!! The bugger stole not one, but 2 pig's ears from the shelf while I was paying no one noticed until I heard him go *crunch*. Bless him

Thanks for the replies everyone Will order some Joint Guard tomorrow (payday..... but it'll all be gone by the end of the day, the joys of pets ), Spike already gets Omega oils nightly and his bowls are raised. Getting him to sleep on something comfy has always been difficult- he prefers the carpet. He has several beds (a tramp, a large crate mat, blankets, towels etc) but he's just never really liked them. He does like gettng up on the couch, which we don't mind but try to discourage as this is when he seems to get the most stiff (possibly because he is curled up?), but I guess he knows what he likes best..... And we are off to the vet at 11am tomorrow- getting him into the car will be interesting, fortunately it's not a long drive He's a happy chappy though.

He is currently on Glucosamine & fish oil tabs (the same as I take LOL). Maybe I should look into changing to a specific dog/animal formula? He doesn't have any obvious signs of arthritis or stiffness in his movement, just the legs collapsing or not working the way they used to that seems to be the biggest problem (but he doesn't seem to notice?!). He is my Grand Old Man Actually, mum's Shih Tzu is almost 14- we reckon they are about the same in 'dog years' though.

My Newfoundland, Spike, will be celebrating his 8th birthday in 2 weeks. He is doing well but has aged noticably in recent months, and his skin has become more sensitive with some issues cropping up. Hopefully all that is under control now with a diet change- he hasn't had any new sores in a while. He doesn't seem to be in any pain or obvious discomfort when moving but occasionally his back legs will take a while to 'work' if he's been laying down for a while. Could this be his legs 'going to sleep', maybe due to his weight? He is around 65 kilo at the moment and lean/ideal IMO. As I said, it doesn't seem to bother him, he just waits until his legs work again and then does his thing. Occasionally he will stumble when walking, and his back legs will give way a little but he doesn't seem at all bothered by this either. He will run around the yard, chasing the littlies, etc. Getting him to excercise isn't the easiest, but he now does 3 short strolls a day (around the block), he has always been more comfortable at home so has never really done long walks, most of his excercise in the recent years has been done in the backyard or at the golf course across the road where we play chasey, but I am worried if we play chasey now he will hurt himself if he falls or leaps up onto me. Aside from being a bit quieter, and a bit grumpier with the other dogs/more easily startled when sleeping, he seems quite happy and content. And he is still very enthusiastic about his food But as I mentioned first up, he has aged quite a lot recently. Still happy but 'old'. He is booked in to see the vet next week, for a check up and whatnot but I was mostly posting to ask if anyone who has had experience with very large seniors and has any tips or advice they could give me to make his 'golden years' the best years of his life 8 isn't a bad run for a Newf, especially considering I know nothing about his breeding so hereditary problems, lifespan of the parents, grandparents, etc are all a mystery. But of course I hope he will be around for his 9th, 10th, 11th and beyond as long as he is happy to be here. He's a very special boy and means the World to me.

Awwwwwww. Everyone's babies are so cute!! Name: Ziva (Hebrew, means 'splendid' or 'splendour') sex: Female Date of birth: May 25, 2007 Age: Almost 17 weeks Colour: Grizzle & Tan Breed: Border Terrier Hobbies: Playing, leaping, running, pulling her Uncle Caber's ears!! Loves: See above as well as rawhide chewies, pig's ears, food, cuddles, tummy rubs and tummy raspberries. Cats. Water. Hates: Not sure really, she's not too keen on being left alone at the moment- she would rather be playing! **Can't get my photobucket to load at the moment so will post pics later *** Photobucket problems resolved Newborns (7 pups in all, Ziva is 2nd from the left, with the yellow collar, she was half the size of her siblings at birth but caught up quickly) Day we brought her home, at 8 weeks and 1 day old, getting to know Uncle Caber About 8 and a half weeks old Elephant Killer!! 12 weeks or so, with uncle Caber 16 week old water-baby

I never crate trained my Newf, but all our other dogs are crate trained. We don't have enough space in our house for a Newf sized crate at the moment but if we did, I would have one for him. It keeps the pup safe from chewing power cords, small items, keeps your things safe etc. And it can help with toilet training. Most dogs also appreciate a space to call their own. If you have children or will have children visiting, a crate can be invaluable in giving the dog a 'safe' spot. Also if your ever needs to have a vet stay or stay at the groomers, etc, it is MUCH easier if the dog is already crate trained. Plus if you plan to holiday with your dog, a crated dog is much more easily accepted than a non-crate trained dog (especially a dog that drools and sheds like the Newf does) So if you can- I would definately go for it. I prefer wire crates personally, better airflow, cheaper to purchase and better shaped for big dogs (plastic ones tend to be narrow). Another alternative to a crate is to purchase a C-pen fro www.ccrates.com.au or other online store. These are great for the large to giant breeds. But if you plan to travel by air regularly with him, then get the largest airline approved crate you can find. Contacting the dog transport companies would be your best bet for this. It's not too late to train Turtle at all, just leave the door open and throw some toys and maybe a few treats into the open crate. let him explore in his own time. Feed him his dinner in there with the door open etc.

Newfoundlands don't reahc their full height until around 12 months, then they keep growing outwards until 18-24 months, sometimes longer My boy is 8 and weighs 67 kilos. When he was younger and had better muscle tone he was 76kg at his heaviest! He is 29 inches at the wither/shoulder. If he is barking to get your attention- don't give it to him! Remember he will weigh as much as you when he grows up- a spoilt Newfie is not a happy Newfie. When he barks because he wasn't your attention- walk away. Ignore him until he is quiet and then play with him. Are there any puppy pre schools in your area? I would recommend attending a one run by a qualified trainer if at all possible. Otherwise enrol him in locla obedience as soon as you can. He may be a cute fuzzball now but he will keep on growing. Theya re also an INCREDIBLY smart breed who will take a mile if you give them an inch. You never have to be mean with them, just firm and fair. As you get to know him, you will understand the incredible sense of humour these dogs have and you will learn how to work with him to keep you both happy They are a wonderful breed, my heart (favorite) breed in fact, and they need special owners who accept them for what they are. You now own a Newfoundland- not a dog. Welcome.

I can't find my Newf's puppy diary at the moment but he was about 12 kilo at 12 weeks.

Ziva graduated from puppy school last night (okay, I don't think you can NOT graduate ;) ), did all the little commands that were required and as her trick was 'spin' we extended that to spin whilst heeling/walking on a loose lead. BUT the thing that made me most proud of her?? During both free playtimes (one at the start, one at the end of class), Ziva recalled to me perfectly, even with the other pups following her and jumping all over her She also ignored the other pups when I called for a focus if they wandered over to her during the little training sessions. I'm very proud Also had her first show on Saturday, she paraded around the ring like a little pro and even stood still on the table! Not bad for a 15 week old terrier pup As for master Caber, we have been working on our stays and he can do a 6 metre drop-stay in the park for 60 seconds. Okay, I don't know how he would go on a busy day but it's a start. His heeling has also improved greatly, he is paying alot of attention to me during the excercise. We'll get off our butts and trial at some stage. Ha.

Aww he is gorgeous!! I have a black Newf who will be 8 next month With the mouthing- you WANT him to bite you at this age. I know it hurts, but you want him to learn bite inhibition (how to bite gently, so that if he ever does bite someone, he wont bite very hard). Google 'bite inhibition' and you should fin some helpful info but basically what you do is when the pup mouths you, you yelp "ouch!!". This should startle the pup. Keep yelping whenever the pup bites at you, even if it's not hard, make him think that you are the most fragile thing in the world. If the yelping doesn't work, ignore him- stand up, cross your arms and look at the sky/ceiling. If THAT doesn't work, leave the room (a baby gate is great here as you can just step over it and leave the pup behind). Barking- why is he barking? If it's when he has been left alone, have you tried giving him a Kong or other treat type toy, like a treat ball? You need to teach the dog how these work, but many dogs once they know how will be entertained for a while. Otherwise, persevere. He is still a baby and some babies take a little longer to understand lol. With the toileting- introduce going to the toilet outside. Take him out after every nap, every meal, during playtime. Take him out every hour if you need to, and praise praise praise when he goes outside! Praise him like he's just pooped gold lol. I have found this website to be very helpful with my newest pup (15 week Border Terrier) http://www.diamondsintheruff.com/behavior.html And I think his name is great hehe. So cute!!! Welcome to the Wonderful World of the Newfoundland

We (mum and I) trained there for a few years, back when I had my Dober girl. I loved it, always had fun and found all the instructors and other members very welcoming and very helpful. Hoping to get back into it one day (a recall would help )

Was this a Border Terrier (small, brown and scruffy, like the dog in my avatar?)?? Borders do these little leaps when they are happy or excited, my 2 (even my 14 week pup) do it when playing with eachother or with toys etc. We call it 'deer leaps'. If it's the dog I'm thinking of, it's Ziva's older sister hehe. Unfortunately we didn't make it, but hopefully next time!! Poor Iko misses it I think; it's her most favourite thing in the world.

Ooooh Clover, you've left it a bit late to strip him out!!! As showdog said, you really need to keep at the coat on a regular basis. Still, from those picks he looks okay to me- not ideal but his coat looks neat and not too scrappy. Personally, I prefer a coat that's a little long over a dog that's 'naked' (having said that, Caber's coat ain't perfect atm it's a bit shrot but we're getting it right for the Royal!). Not experienced with JRTs but I'm more than happy to help out a bit with general stripping on the weekend (not that I'm an expert hahaha). Can you talk to his breeder?? Or mayb PM someone on the forum who has rough coat Jacks and see what they say. Also have you looked on the DOL breed pages? Might be some stripped Jacks in the breed profile section?? Anyway, will see you and young master Harri next Saturday. YAY!

Our 4 adult dogs get 3 700g tins a week between them (every 2nd night- sounds like a lot but it's not, especially since one is a newfie!) and my baby pup is presently on a tablespoon of Puppy each evening with her kibble. Ours all love it and I love the smell too.

Oh Cazzie, I am so sorry. There is nothing that can be said to make the pain go away for you, only time can do that. At least she can now run and jump like a puppy should. Our thoughts are with you, and Spike sends big, slobbery Newfy kisses your way.

My baby puppy is crated at night in my bedroom, and will be until I am satisfied she is both toilet trained and can be trusted not to chew anything like power cords etc. I think it was at 6 months I allowed Caber to sleep out of the crate. During the day she is either in the house or yard with me and has a playpen in the living room for nap times and when I can't watch her (or I get sick of those puppy teeth! Ouch). Also keeps her from annoying my oh-so-patient older dogs hehe. .

My small breed puppy has been getting raw chicken necks and raw chicken wings for lunch ever since she was about 7 weeks old. She is now 10 weeks. The soft chewable bones are best for teeth cleaning and gum excercise IMO. Just have to be sure that puppy can't or doesn't swallow them, you may need to teac your pup how to chew on them.

Here's mine on Ziva's first night Providing my dogs don't figure out how to climb out of it, I'm considering using it for shows in summer. Still have to get around to buying a second one, maybe a 3rd lol. Will be useful to section off the garden when we start trying to grow grass again!!!

My biggest problem with a school like ADT is the enourmous amount of money you need to pay up front. There is no way you can 'try before you buy' so to speak. After that 30 days, if it's not working for you, you've lost several hundred dollars. I get that if you use the centres for a long time, they are excellent value for money, but if you don't use them or can't (with the stuff up from Maribyrnong council my mum hasn't been able to attend since the last class they conducted at the Yarraville soccer oval, and there is only so much she can do on her own. None of the other schools are suitable for her to travel to due to distance and/or times, not ADTs fault I know!!!), then you have lost a great deal of cash. If she had've known this would happen, she would have invested in private lessons instead. Mum was doing well with her dog, but she didn't always feel she was getting the help that she needed, and because of her dog's barking issues, she was often told to go stand on the outskirts of the classes so others could hear, well what about HELPING my mum fix her dog's barking problem?? Accodring to my mum, there were some real positives about the club, but there were also some serious negatives in her situation. My own experience with them wasn't a pleasant one, when my Newf was 5 months old (back in early 2000), we attended a free intro session and they wanted me to use a prong collar on my puppy who had never pulled in his life "Beacause he was going to be huge". Turned me off em straight away and I was quite angry at my mum for going to them last year but after she told me they had changed, I forgave them Just my personal thoughts and experiences

Eagle Pack Puppy (Small/Medium breed), raw chicken wings, Nature's Gift Puppy (tinned), VIP Puppy roll and something different each night (whatever our older dogs are getting) such as sardines, raw egg, pasta or brown rice, veggies, etc.

As far as supermarket stuff goes, it looks to be one of the better ones Though I have never used it. Just a hint, join up with www.optimumphd.com.au and you will be able to get your money back via reimbursment