Re: Sneezing

In Reply to: Sneezing
Category:   Other
Posted by:  Lori
Posted on:  December 29, 2002 at 12:09:14

: I just got a new puppy. He's the cutest thing. However we are having some problems. 1. He sneezes alot, like he has a cold. Is this normal? I have an appointment for him to see a vet but it's not until Jan 2. 2. He chews everything, I need some chew toy advice. I couldn't pull it up on the list. 3. Potty training. I got those throw away sheet made for potty training and sometimes he uses them some times he don't. He also goes on his bed. I have a pillow just for him and he goes on it. I have been taking him out every 2 hours. But sometime's I loose track of the time and sure enough there he goes. How long would I have to do the 2 hour thing before he catches on??? He's 9 weeks old. It's funny when I take him outside to go he jumps on the window to tell me to let him in but he don't jump on the window to tell me he needs to go out. ha ha ha ha Any advice would be great thank you

Response:

Dear Lori,

Congratulations on your new puppy! The next few months will be both the "best" of times as well as the "worst" of times. :-)

(1) Sneezing alot is not normal for a pup (or an adult terrier) so your little guy definitely needs to be examined by a vet as soon as possible. If you are unable to have the pup examined immediately, please take note of the circumstances before, during and after he sneezes; this information will help your vet with the diagnosis.

(2) Chewing "everything" means that he is (A) teething, (B) nervous (C) taking advantage of what YOU leave in his reach or (D) all of the above. The answer is (D); see below for a link to the FAQ regarding recommended toys.

(3) You should expect your terrier to physically be able to "hold it" for more then 2 hours when he 4-5 months old. However, you CANNOT expect your pup to know when/where to go potty if you are not with him. If he is jumping on the window to be let in, then you are obviously not outside with him to encourage/praise his effort. Please don't consider this "funny," Lori; problems with housebreaking are not only the biggest issue amongst puppy owners but also the number one reason owners give for dumping their dogs.

Regards,
Leslie