I just got a lab-shepherd mix female puppy. She is about 9-weeks old. I just had her for three days now. I have so many questions I do not know even where to begin. Right now my biggest three problems are biting, potty-training, and walking on the leash. She started to bite my legs the third day I had her. Distraction does not work anymore. I read in many places that I have to withdraw my attention. I tried to do it couple times by putting her in a separate room, or going myself to another room. She howls, whines and bits at the door. It is heart-ranching. I can not bear that. I do not understand how that is not a punishment for her? Is there anything else I can do? She bites very often. It looks like we can not play anymore because the play will turn into biting. But I read in many places that playing with your dog is very important. I am totally confused. Please help! Another issues is that I am not successful in potty-training her. I live in apartment on the second floor, so I can not just put her outside. She does not enjoy walking with the leash much, and even if we walk for long, she rarely poops outside, and never pees outside. My last problem is that I think I do not walk her properly. I though I would just let her do whatever she wants. Now, she is pulling me. Should I pull her and give her commands? I have not done so when we walk. Thank you! I really need help, and would be very grateful to have advice.
Hi Irina, Welcome to the forum and congratulations on your puppy! You can find lots of great advice from people who have already been where you are and survived by searching our old posts, as well as starting your own (sometimes it helps to see proof that you're not the only one who's ever had these problems!) These articles on our main site might also help you while you're waiting for more replies: How To Stop Your Puppy Biting Potty Training - including using puppy pads indoors for puppies in apartments. and How To Leash Train A Labrador. Good luck and let us know how you get on!
