It's so encouraging to hear that people have had multiple puppies. Just makes me think that if it was horrendous forver, that simply wouldn't happen. Bit like having kids! I decided to groom him today as I read it helps with bonding and he was lovely! Let me cradle him to do his undercarriage and was so relaxed (despite nipping me 928863349 times) lol! Was a really nice experience x
I had a few pessimists when I brought Moose home...people who care about me and thought I wouldn't be able to handle this because of my disability (oxygen dependent). The first weeks are a bit of a blur, I admit, of yelling "NO MOOSE"...the worst one, of course, being when he nipped the cat and she bled like mad. The constant cleaning up ...thank you again Swiffer WetJet and the biting biting biting. But he is still an energetic puppy, glad to say, he's happy, he's house trained, and I am so loving him. He has learned how to open the fridge door using the dish towel I had (note HAD) hanging on the door handle, he leaves my oxygen tubing totally alone (how'd he know that? I've only had to replace one tube in the 7 weeks he's been here), he is adorable, bringing me his toys when he wants to play.I had him in the bath with me a couple of days ago, and turned on the hair dryer. He shot out of there so fast...and I found him in his crate, so glad he sees that as his "safe place". He has calmed down a bit with my chihuahua and she has calmed down abit with him. I think his numerous puppy play dates with larger dogs has helped tremendously with that. All in all, I am so lucky to have him as part of my little family here, love him to pieces, and look forward to watching him grow, grow, grow.
Hey! Grooming! Lovely way to start bonding. My little Joy also likes being groomed, which is good because she's just having her first full labrador style moult (something you're likely to become all too familiar with). She, too, rolls over so I can do her tummy and it's sweet, sweet, sweet! It sounds like you're really doing the right stuff with your little pup. You'll get there, it's so well worth it and this difficult time doesn't last long, honestly.
He's so adorable @Boogie he really is. He's still sleeping through without a peep. Crocopup seems to be diminishing for now since changing tactics and he's completely affectionate and crawls into our laps for snuggles. Will sit there for ages soaking in the attention and love. He's doing very well with short distance recall and we've practiced walking on the leash indoors with no trouble. He's currently being a dream which really helps. Despite all of this, I'm still struggling a little. Really really trying though and it's starting to feel a little easier. Thank you so much for checking on us xx
Update: My 7 year old son, clumsily shut Loki's foot in the back door. I wasn't home but my husband told me Loki yelped and cried. I know it had already been dealt with but I completely went mad! Complete protection mode. I know it was an accident but I completely lost it with my son and couldn't stop cuddling Loki. Made me realise I would hate for him not to be here actually. It surprised me at how upset I was! I know I'm going to have moments of doom and gloom but I actually love this little guy! Edited to say, he's walking and running on it completely normal and seems fine but will keep an eye on it x
Haha I know! It was a complete accident and I apologised for getting so mad with him! He wrote him an apology card as well lol! All is well in the Prime household again now
@Lex, huge hugs I was where you are 5 months ago - our first puppy, also trying to finish my PhD thesis ("it'll be a nice distraction!") - I think it was the sleep deprivation that really floored me. In these early days, go gently and try to focus on looking after yourself; catch up on sleep where possible, if you can have lunch in a different room and think about something else for 10 minutes, do. This forum helped me immensely too, so keep reading and reaching out It will get better, and you're not a bad person for feeling this way! Most of all, you are not alone. All the advice about getting out and about helped me a lot; thinking about practical things (training Loki to be good in the car, lots of new experiences) are valuable investments, and peoples' reactions to your little bundle are a bit of a boost. If you have a school/college/university campus nearby you might think about taking Loki along in your arms to stand outside during break/home times; lots of fussing, different noises and it forces you out of yourself a bit. Keep us posted!
Just realised I'm behind the curve (missed more pages, d'oh) It sounds like things are settling down - well done @Lex
