I touched on this in another post. GDs are certainly not a typical pet dog. I read somewhere that if they are separated at 6 or 7 weeks, they bond more closely with humans, which is obviously what you need in a guide dog since it's their job. That extra one or two weeks for "normal" dogs is where they learn a huge amount of their socialisation skills with other dogs. However, the Association has such a structured way of raising the puppies that it's far removed from simply taking a pup from its mother and putting it into a new home and I think it's rather flippant of anyone to believe that if GDBA does it, it must be OK for them to do it, too.
Thank you that makes a lot of sense the behaviourist did say between week 7 and 8 they learn a lot from the litter and mum. The breeding programme as Julie mentioned is obviously an important factor as well. It turns out mine were doomed from the start even before their run in with the vet. According to the behaviourist the breeder did all the wrong things. Kept them outside, allowed mum to leave when she'd got fed up and sent them away at seven weeks. On top of that they have field trial winners throughout their breeding line. The breeder was recommended by another breeder who you would trust the opinion of. It's a shame all working dogs dont follow such a structured and rigorous breeding programme. The Guide Dog breeding programme ensures, as much as it can, that pups are 'fit for purpose' I wonder why Gundog breeders don't all do the same. (not tarring all with same brush) Money I suppose.
I know this isn't the thread for it, Jen, but love to hear more about the behaviourist you consulted - was it of practical help? Very interesting the things you say above, anyway.
Welcome Twiglet...what a little cutie you are and it looks like you haven't lost your touch for wonderful pics Mags,thank you x Tatze sounds wonderful ,I'm so glad she has taken to her new little pal so well and is happy to do a few puppy sitting shifts! X
Ha ha, that bone is nearly as big as she is - she is so gorgeous. I'm sure Tatze was more than happy to help Twiglet finish the bone, that's what big sisters do isn't it
Good girl Twiglet, She went to bed without shouting (for the first time) last night and slept through from 11:30pm to 6am - hurrah! She had been shouting for about 15 minutes before settling. I had a cardboard box ready by my bed, but decided to wait it out. I'm glad I did now
Yes she does, but (covers Twiglet's ears) I think Gypsy was prettier. Gypsy had enormous eyes! They both have identical colouring Here was Gypsy at 7 weeks -
Ah Gypsy puppy,got to give you a little retrospect swoon,but open your ears again now Twiglet ,you are gorgeous too. Tatze looks Huuuuuuuuge! X
