Oh wow! That's a big decision to make on an impulse. If you've never owned a puppy totally on your own before, check out r/puppy101. There's a lot to learn about when and how to socialize a puppy (there is a right way and a wrong way, not all socialization is good socialization). The book "Social, Civil, and Savvy" is a fantastic resource.
Take your puppy to a vet ASAP to have it looked at. Not to be hyper critical, but my guess is that you may not have gone through a super reputable source to get this puppy. Most reputable Aussie breeders I know wouldn't sell to an impulse buyer. Getting it taken to a vet will be doubly important if that's the case. You should know what diseases they are at high risk for and what to look out for in your pup. Here is a list of recommended health screenings reputable breeders should do to give you some background info.
Aside from that, as others have said, they're a smart and high energy breed. They'll need a lot of training and activities to burn off mental and physical steam every day. Getting your puppy enrolled in a puppy class is a great place to start. A lot of young herding breeds will also go through a reactivity phase, meaning they will bark and lunge at things like people, other dogs, cars, bikes, etc. It is really important you set your puppy up for success with these things and know how to handle it before it happens so you are ready when it does.
Good luck!
This is called resource guarding - at least the behavior you describe sounds like that. It can escalate to a more serious issue, especially if it has not been dealt with and his resources have continued to be taken away. The fact that he has already bitten is very concerning. I suggest you hire a trainer to help you with this.
In the meantime, do not take anything from him without trading him for something better. If he has something he shouldn’t, offer him a cookie for dropping it. Toss the cookie away from you so he can’t bite you when you reach for the item. This book might also be helpful.
They are. They are thick plastic/rubber so they are kind of soft, but not too soft like a real soccer ball. They are also stiff enough to hold their shape without being pressurized, so if they do get a puncture it won't matter. I just looked, amazon has them for $18.99
https://www.amazon.com/Jolly-Pets-Soccer-Orange-X-Large/dp/B01EMSVV4E
Obviously Kong was where we started. We moved to the kibble balls, the balls that dispense kibble if rolled a certain way. We recently went away from kibble and moved to raw so we’ve been putting a few small training treats in the kibble ball. The one we have is cylinder shaped, rather than ball shaped That turned dinner time into a job.
We’ve since started buying random puzzles on Amazon. Here’s a few we like. You do have to monitor them to make sure they don’t brute force their way through the puzzle.
https://www.amazon.com/SPOT-Interactive-Specially-Designed-Training/dp/B0038WP1YC
When people refer to the Furminator, it is usually specifically referring to their deshedding tool. Furminator got their start by heavily marketing those blades to the public. They have since expanded to a full fledged brand with all sorts of grooming tools and supplies like shampoos, conditioner, etc. which should be functionally the same tool as other brands' (aside from differences in quality).
I live in Texas too! This is the brush I've been using for my Aussie and found it works pretty well. She actually doesn't mind this one either and will sit still till I'm done with her https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZGPI3OY?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
We watched my brothers dog for a weekend not knowing she had fleas. She then passed it to our dog and our house was infested as wellvet kem. The only thing that helped us was using this!!! It works wonders.
This isn’t necessarily a puzzle, but our Aussie loved the Kong chase-it toy. I think it may have been discontinued because I can’t find it anywhere, but here’s an alternative: https://www.amazon.com/POPETPOP-Extendable-Interactive-Training-Exercise/dp/B07PLK3JYN/
We also had success with treat/food balls like this: https://www.amazon.com/Treat-Dispensing-Chew-Ball-Large/dp/B0009YD8NS/
The puzzle toy we used was honestly not the biggest success. Every dog is different. I found that playing hide and seek was great for ours. I’d make him “stay” and then I’d take a toy he loved and hide it somewhere and tell him to go find it. Even though your dog doesn’t understand your words, he’ll understand the intent. Honestly, any game you can come up with can be fun and engaging and bonding for the two of you.
In terms of training, if your pup is anything like ours, he’ll be super vocal. Nip this in the bud early on. Time out worked for us. You have to be consistent for a day or two, but if you tell him “Quiet!” and he keeps barking, put him in time out (not his crate! We used the bathroom) and wait until he’s quiet to release him. It’s time consuming but will definitely pay off. He’ll learn to obey the “quiet” command.
Be prepared for your dog to be an utter brat for the first few months. If he’s anything like mine, he’ll never truly stop being a brat, but it becomes more manageable and endearing with age. Just trust me when I say they’re worth it. I love my Aussie so much, despite the hell he put me through in his puppy stage.
It's called a wisdom panel. They are around 70 dollars on Amazon. I've never actually used one, but I've heard good things about them.
Mars Veterinary Wisdom Panel 2.5 Breed Identification DNA Test Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00U9AJB24/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_E3Oaxb42VSJE8
Yeah this the kind I’m talking about https://www.amazon.it/rabbitgoo-Riflettente-Imbracatura-Super-Comoda-Grande-Taglia/dp/B01M8JT6FT/ref=sr_1_60_sspa?crid=2YYACM847P72R&keywords=pettorina%2Bh&qid=1666947385&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI2LjkwIiwicXNhIjoiNi40MiIsInFzcCI6IjUuNDkifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=Pettorin%2Ba%2B%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-60-spons&th=1
I thought chest pieces only did that when the Clip is on the back. The back Clip essentially creates a sled dog situation that encourages them to pull.
There’s an “easy walk” harness that clips at the chest and turns the dog toward you when they try to pull ahead
Have been using this with my dog her whole life and it worked well from day 1 to discourage pulling
West Paw and other companies make hard rubber tubes that you can insert bullies into for added challenge / problem solving . They are pricey, absolutely, I tried finding a bulk supplier but to no avail. Bully Holder
Hi there, it's a heavy steel dog crate. Both my Aussies tore up and repeatedly escaped from those metal wire crates so I had to get something stronger. I have the Large size ones (42") so they have enough space to stand all the up or stretch out while laying down.
They work very well and my dogs love them as "their space"
Here is the link: https://www.chewy.com/frisco-ultimate-foldable-stackable/dp/306495
I have two of these for my two Dobermans. I use them while traveling so they can have water while I'm driving. I will occasionally have a small spot of water around the bowl after a long drive but not enough to cause concern.
I'm not OP, but I recommend the Safari undercoat rake to all Aussie owners:
https://www.amazon.com/Coastal-Pet-Undercoat-Designed-Undercoats/dp/B0083TSC64/
It doesn't pull or cut their fur like the Furminator or wire brushes, removes a ton of loose fluff, and it's pretty much indestructible.
Our Aussies see the brush and flop over asking to be brushed. We remove a basketball-sized clump of fuzz from one dog sometimes.
Try the donut! Ours was much more open to wearing the donut versus the cone. Plus, the donut doesn’t catch on all the things haha.
Try this one, it's not slippery and folds up and stores for the winter.
Here you go! I like it because it’s not very heavy, but holds plenty of his things while we’re out!
OneTigris Dog Pack Hound Travel... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Y4FPL6A?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I got this one: food puzzle ball
Almost impossible to clean but it’s super cheap so I’m thinking of buying another one but also buying one that takes her a lil longer to get food out of.
Scent training/play. Look up some videos on YouTube, Aussies do really well and it works them mentally which is really good because you can do it in the house as well as outside. I got small plastic cubs w/ cotton balls and I put a small amount of scent on some of them and some are blank. Hide them around the house and work him to find them. My boy loves that, we also picked up some of the dog puzzles on Amazon.
Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Dog Tornado Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07239T47Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ANMHZ4954ZM27YTRYFVX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
He really like these too when it is too hot outside.
I feed mine out of this Kong food dispenser. It gives them something fun to do and slows down their eating. Maybe get one or a couple of these and see if that switches the gears.
My dog (not an Aussie) has been in heart failure since mid-February. She's doing well, but with all the meds she's on, her appetite was really low. All I could get her to eat was chicken breast and some canned foods, but it was pretty much hit-and-miss. The vet prescribed Fortiflora Probiotics while she was on antibiotics, and I gave her the first packet mixed into a little yogurt. That day she went back to eating her kibble and loving it. She's been eating as normal (read, like a pig) since then, and I'm going to keep her on the probiotics. You may be able to find them less expensive else where, this is the 1st link that came up in a search.
https://www.amazon.com/Purina-Veterinary-Fortiflora-Nutritional-Supplement/dp/B001650NNW
Welcome to life with an Aussie! They are worth it though!!
I have just had to lower my standard of cleanliness because an hour after my cleaners leave there is dog hair all over again. I got a Dyson 11 cordless vac and it has made vacuuming the hair so much easier. It has a special attachment that doesn’t have the brush, it’s more of just a felt pad, so hair doesn’t clog it. I vacuum every 1-2 days.
Also have one of these mitts which I think does the best job getting hair off the upholstery:
CleanAide Hair Magnet Pet Fur Removal and Lint Debris Cleanup Pick it up Mitt, Red, Pack of 2 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003USZI06/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_64SYSPQWG1RDW51HVHVW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
And finally, we have lint rollers in every room and each car. Nothing worse than looking down at my black joggers when I’m getting out of the car and having them covered in dog hair. Haha
I stand by the easy pet walker or the deluxe version of this.
My Aussie walks fine with this, it doesn’t pinch hair since their is only so much fabric, and my dog stays cool since it only has minimal coverage. The straps are highly adjustable so your dog can grow with it. I have a medium size (my boy is 45-50 pounds) and have been using it for the last four months.
Our puppy is now 1 year old. We adore her. We exercise her twice a day. A good run in the am and then fetch with a chuck it ball at the end of the day. This toy was invaluable for the first 6 months. https://www.amazon.ca/Extendable-Retractable-Braided-Interactive-Pulling/dp/B07TTQR28J
I don't remember brands on the brushes, but one is a cheap undercoat rake I found on the clearance shelf at petsmart years ago for like 4 bucks. I've tried half a dozen other rakes and none are near as good as it. Basically any of the ones with the plain straight teeth. I just bought this one and it's almost as good as my favorite, it's a little big and awkward though: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B095BN2MBT/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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The other brush is a long tooth slicker I found on Amazon. The undercoat rake is crucial for keeping away matting and pulling out shed, but the slicker made a world of difference in giving them a nice smooth look, and pulls out a lot of shed too.
​
The spray is lush coating brush spray from Isle of Dogs, it works wonders and I also recommend their shampoo and conditioners. This spray leaves their coat shiny and gorgeous. Another favorite spray of mine is the dematting and detangler spray/leave in conditioner from Warren London. It doesn't do as much for appearance, but is super clutch when the tangles are bad or the undercoat mats. And it does wonders for conditioning and prevent your dogs from crackling every time the brush something from the static. The Warren London spray is spendy but well worth it when the undercoat gets matted.
​
For any spray, I use the same process. I first use the undercoat rake, then the slicker, misting on brush spray as needed for tangles or areas where the brush pulls through hard. Once they've gotten a thourough brushing, I spray them down and use the long tooth slicker to work it in.
My Aussie destroys toys, this Kong lasted A whole year Then he got the tennis ball that is inside
KONG - Jumbler Ball - Interactive Fetch Dog Toy with Tennis Ball (Assorted Colors) - for Medium/Large Dogs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KNWYFVK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_F622VXYK8XKKF2XEDPD3
Just pick the right size. He even know this toy my name. We just use the color. It is great for tug of war too.
We found these worked great for Aussie, he chewed thru everything until we got him this toy
KONG - Jumbler Ball - Interactive Fetch Dog Toy with Tennis Ball (Assorted Colors) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KNWYFVK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_C1T8VZWD3SRYNDZA3F12?psc=1
Just pick the right size. He takes about a year to get thru it now
My dog's favorite toy is a herding ball.
It's indestructible.
Our Aussie Cayde live to chew and chomp, so we found this
KONG - Jumbler Ball - Interactive Fetch Dog Toy with Tennis Ball (Assorted Colors) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KNWVPFO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_40H6E98NJPRBNZ9Y7CJA
He Loves this thing and even with his non-stop chewing it makes it a year, and then he gets the tennis ball that is inside as a bonus
XSY&G Dog Boots,Waterproof Dog Shoes,Dog Booties with Reflective Rugged Anti-Slip Sole and Skid-Proof,Outdoor Dog Shoes for Medium Dogs 4Pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08DD3SP4F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_HYBZ5HZGNAEWVJQQXN60 - these shoes are awesome for my aussie
I would get activity puzzles: TRIXIE Dog Activity | Pet Strategy Games | Interactive Dog Puzzles | Great for Mental Stimulation https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0054Q9TMA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_D2T0D8FFCB96D3W9BFM9
Ohhh how cute!
More pics! Here's Buster before we picked him up.. And then a few days after he came home.
This one daily, and another one that looks kind of like a human brush once a week. Coastal Pet - Safari - Dog Undercoat Rakes - Single Row for Medium and Large Breeds https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0083TSC64/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_64FSJR14DKCK62260AQT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have a toy that looks just like that, my Aussie loves playing with it! Mine is the puller midi, but there are a few different sizes
Behind the ears is often the most troublesome spot. I’ve found that a couple of detangling products used regularly during brushing makes a huge difference.
My pups love Himalayan chews or bully sticks.. or I give them this activity ball with a little of their kibble in it. They have to work to get it out and it keeps them stimulated and occupied for a while! I have also made kongs for them.. i would mash a banana, some peanut butter and kibble, stuff and freeze the kong so it’s like a popsicle and takes some work to clean it out. Also they love to crunch on ice cubes!!
Starmark Treat Dispensing Puzzle Ball Dog Toy
With the Snuff Mat sometimes my dog gets frustrated and flings it but it’s absolutely fun to watch him clean it up lol
They're awesome! Its my boy's favorite. When we moved to a bigger apartment with 2 floors we bought a second one to keep upstairs since he loves it so much. This is the one we have. They're not expensive either!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P7JKD6/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_D69YB19NZPQFYF6HFW59
I use a Bissell 3070.
https://www.amazon.com/BISSELL-PowerGlide-Corded-Vacuum-3070/dp/B08FF4PD5P
We have two Aussies. It works great. No belts to get jammed up. No long tubes to get plugged. It just works great at picking up the fur and is super easy to empty. It is 2 years old now and not a single problem with it.
I haven’t used the clear kind. We had something like these RIOLAND Stair Treads Carpet Non-Slip Indoor 15 PCS Stair Rugs Modern Stair Runners for Kids Dogs, 8" X 30", Midium Gray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MPTQTYY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_V2VC5YE3A2QKFENNQC02?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 We ended up having to staple them to the stairs because they kept sliding around but other than that they worked great! I saw some on chewy.com as well.
Walky Dog Plus Hands Free Dog Bicycle Exerciser Leash Newest Model with 550-lbs Pull Strength Paracord Leash Military Grade https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003OYIAW4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4Q0WQ4XEXPRCPVMHB3HN
Here’s a link to the Walky dog, I’m not sponsored or anything just love the product.
After struggling for months with my puppy I came across this as a means to get her more excersize. Well all know how much aussies need excersize and more so what happens if they don’t receive it! You can use this on any bike but I had a fixed gear that I put it on and it’s perfect! The fixed gear bike let’s me slow down to a walking pace for when she gets tired and I don’t have to constantly get off and on the bike. It also gives great feed back through the pedals ensuring that you’re never dragging your pup! Best thing I’ve ever done, the only downside is that my Aussie is way strong now that when I try to just walk with her she pulls HARD!
Ha! Thanks! I got myself a couple of tools I’m obsessed with that are miracle workers!
https://uprootlint.com/products/uproot-lint-pro
FURemover Broom, Pet Hair Removal Tool with Squeegee & Telescoping Handle That Extends from 3-5', Black & Yellow https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EFDOOA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_1904SNJDCGQN673MC5NY
Ha! Thanks! I got myself a couple of tools I’m obsessed with that are miracle workers!
https://uprootlint.com/products/uproot-lint-pro
FURemover Broom, Pet Hair Removal Tool with Squeegee & Telescoping Handle That Extends from 3-5', Black & Yellow https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EFDOOA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_1904SNJDCGQN673MC5NY
My aussie’s girlfriend (also an Aussie) is a water Hoover. We had to get a special water bowl to stop her from inhaling her water and consequently hurling it right back up. It’s been a HUGE game changer for us.
LumoLeaf Dog Water Bowl, Dog Bowl... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JHTKQNK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Luna destroys most stuffed animals, except HER stuffed animal. We went through a ton before finding one she wouldn't destroy quickly, but she loves them so we kept trying.
Her current baby has lasted a year or so. It's a lamb chop.
She's also pretty good about Ikea pandas.
This is what I use - a couple of years I found it on a site for recommendations for aussies. It is wonderful!
PawsPamper Dual-Use Undercoat Rake - Dematting & Finishing Grooming Tool for Dogs and Cats (9+19 Blades) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NBGHZ18/ref=cm_sw_r_apanp_gOq9tNOuDkhf2
Our pup is only 9 weeks old, so I haven’t gotten him one yet, but my dad swears by round collars - both of his Aussies have worn them! CollarDirect Rolled Leather Dog Collar, Soft Padded Round Puppy Collar, Handmade Genuine Leather Collar for Dog Small Large Cat Collars Black Pink Red Purple Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018W2D0BS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_K6GPD86GH82GYRMJ635J?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes for Dogs with Reflective Strips Rugged Anti-Slip Sole Black 4PCS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073F5GQWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_25DC9FPRAQBPE4PJCQYK?psc=1
I’ve been using these shoes for years, when this brand was called My Busy Dog. The double Velcro helps keep them on even at a run (though they do rotate) and has a good rubber sole.
I know what you mean, we buy several of those oversized balls at a time because they pop them so fast, lol. We got em a herding ball but it's way too hard and they quickly lose interest. These soccer balls are great, highly recommend. They last a long time. We have a couple different sizes.
I buy the shed control shampoo and conditioner by Furminator! Works pretty well on my monsters. https://www.amazon.com/Furminator-deShedding-Premium-Shampoo-16-Ounce/dp/B00I2Y1CNU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=k9ofmine-20&linkId=c033bbbd7ed9df18d177538493519063&language=en_US
Baths and blow dries are honestly the most important and will do a lot more to deshed than a brush. I like this undercoat rake, though it’s a little controversial. It’s not as bad as a furminator but don’t use it too frequently or too much in one spot.
We have this for our guy who rips apart soft toys in a minute...it’s his favorite and is so tough.
VANFINE Dog Squeaky Toys Almost Indestructible Tough Durable Dog Toys Dog chew Toys for Large Dogs Aggressive chewers Stick Toys Puppy Chew Toys with Non-Toxic Natural Rubber https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WGXLNKY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2PJ0PSPM865WP1ZRT9Q2?psc=1
I second all of these!
We crate trained our immediately and it has paid off in the long run. it took some work at the beginning with the late night screaming and yelping. We played a song on Spotify called Potato’s Song and it helped to soothe him and fall asleep. Now his crate is his bed and safe space.
Also, we invested ($25) in a puzzle ball. I’ll link it. It’s supposed to be for treats, but we would could fit a whole scoop of kibble in it and let him go to town for 30 minutes to get his dinner out. We went through about 3 of these his first year until he eventually figured out that he could throw it and it would bust open. But it was perfect for his little mind while he was a puppy! Starmark Treat Dispensing Puzzle Ball Dog Toy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0165RNM1K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_M6P54JQ0JEFYDNFNPXT3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We also tried various puzzles but he worked those through quickly and we determined that his “brain work” comes from learning new tricks. So we taught him Bang Bang (play dead on command), Sushi Roll (roll all the way over), and Dance.
Ultimately, aussies just need a purpose and they’re content
LOOBANI Dogs Food Puzzle Feeder Toys for IQ Training & Mental Enrichment, Interactive Funny Entertainment Pass Time Games for Pets,Adjustable Treats Dispenser by Spinning Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082MCG46J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AZMAABFTBQHYCH05SHR5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have these two for my dog:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0711Y9XTF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
& something a little harder: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0719Q89X8/ref=emc_b_5_i
Our guy had really dry skin as a puppy too.
I'd say ease up on the baths, maybe mix in an oatmeal bath every now and again, if they're just really dirty.
Fish oil pills did the trick for our dog! These are good Fish Oil Pills. Our dog ate them whole like a weirdo.
We've also bought Fish Oil Pump, but it was more expensive for less of it. It was more convenient, but, like I said, since our dog enjoyed eating the pills themselves, we didn't have to puncture them or force him to swallow them.
This one is from Amazon!
Kurgo Dog Harness | Pet Walking... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0083QSSJI?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
She kinda freaked out as first too but she got used to it after a few days. I make sure she wears it at least once a day and I keep it on her when I’m relaxing and can’t have full focus on her so I can still keep her under control. I used a lot of treats as well to give her positive reinforcement that it’s a good thing. I also put a treat in the entry part so she can put her head in.
it’s a jolly ball
Jolly Pets Push-n-Play Ball Dog Toy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000P6VA2G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabt1_bT7UFbG2DWR9B?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
she usually loves balls, but this is a little on the bigger side so maybe she’s just unsure. just pulled it out of the package but hopefully she feels better about it seeing it in the field!
Haha it’s dangerous! I go these for my Aussie! SATINIOR 6 Pieces Halloween Dog Bandanas Pumpkin Ghost Skeleton Spider Web Witch Hat Adjustable Washable Triangle Bandana for Dogs Cats Pets Animals Halloween Party https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FMLK63K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CRGKFb2Y20544
Our older fella was 4 when we got the puppy, there was definitely an adjustment for the older one! He is much more laid back and quiet than the puppy so that has been interesting but they get along wonderfully! I'm not sure the best way to introduce new dogs into the pack, we brought the older one with us to the breeder to see how he'd react to puppies (already knew he was gentle beyond belief but thought it would be more fair to let him meet the little guy before we all got into the car to drive home).
We use a training book for guidelines and I highly suggest it to anyone looking for pointers! The book is called Good Owners, Great Dogs by Brian Kilcommons. He makes it very clear that when bringing home a new puppy when you already have an older dog, you must make sure that you establish that the older dog is higher in the pecking order. This I think was key for us as our older guy definitely was showing signs that he wasn't too pleased about the new guy!
Maybe talk to the breeder/kennel and see if they have some suggestions or are willing to work with you guys if your two don't get along?
r/puppy101 is really where this advice should be given, but it looks like you got a lot of good tips here. My favorite book on socialization is https://www.amazon.com/Social-Civil-Savvy-Training-Socializing/dp/1631650068 A lot of people (here and elsewhere) misinterpret what socialization truly is.
It's about quality, not quantity. "As many experiences as possible" does not do your puppy any good if they are terrified every time. I recommend that you and anyone else here read that book if you are new to socializing an animal.
I got this one! GGR Pet Boots 4 Pcs Outdoor Waterproof and Wearproof Running Shoes for Dogs Pet Rain Boots https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PGY57KS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_scSwFbTZM95R8
It stays on 95% of the time. The other 5% is when he’s at a dog park and chasing after a dog since he tends to go a little crazy. It’s inevitable at that point though! They are perfect for walks! Each shoe is secured using 1 long Velcro strap. I like this better than the 2 Velcro straps because you’re able to wrap it a couple times around their foot to get it all nice and tight. I got a #6 (2.9”x2.5”) for reference.
I use some thing like this for my guy, he’s got long hair and likes mud. It also helps use less soap so I’m able to rinse faster. I have gotten them at many different stores. The link is just for reference I don’t own that exact one and think they are cheaper at Walmart. I got my current one at Five below$5 BATH GLOVE
The early days were the hardest for us. General advice would be:
- Be very patient with the pup and if you're getting tired/frustrated have someone else you can 'tag in' for a bit.
- Keep pup our of high risk parvo spots (where other dogs are). Wash paws after every walk.
- Positive reinforcement only
- Treat HEAVILY for potty outside. Save your best treat for this.
- Expose to new positive experiences every day. Allow pup to approach and explore foreign objects (household items ie broom) to build confidence.
- Stairs are bad for young minis hips
- Plan your daily schedule . Forced naps are important. Tired pup is a bitey crazy pup.
- Teslatheminiaussie on IG has a lot of good resources (tricks, tutorials, training). They also posted their new pups daily schedule which would be good to refence.
- Start training tricks and manners now
-Youtube Kikkopup, no mugging is a good start.
- For books I like Sohpia yin and Patricia McConnell, Ian Dunbar
- Treat ball is a great way to get a little break
- Keep communication simple
- Handle and feed treats (kikkopup has good handling vid). If you want a snuggly dog it doesn't hurt to train it early!
That dog is a beauty. Congrats! Don't forget about mental stimulation. When I can't do another walk, tug-of-war, fetch we "play school" I teach him stupid pet tricks. I hide a treat under one of three red plastic cups and move them around and let him paw where the treat is. He has a Snuffle Mat (Amazon) and a puzzle toy that dispenses treats. Mine LOVES plastic water bottles so I hide them inside the plush toys he has eviscerated. Frozen peanut butter in a small round plastic container (like tiny tupperware). Rawhides. Mine loves the toys on Amazon that make noise and hop https://www.amazon.com/NEILDEN-Interactive-Automatic-Electronic-Entertainment/dp/B07JX7755N/ref=sr_1_4_sspa?keywords=interactive+dog+toys&qid=1583621007&sr=8-4-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzM1JSQ1paVExNTjdUJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwOTQ3MTk2M1Q0VThBQ0VNQlZTRCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTYzMjM3MzMxRkQ0V0pXSlMwVCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
https://www.amazon.com/Nerf-Dog-Checker-Squeak-Rubber/dp/B00N9IJOZM
Just bought this for my dog’s Xmas stocking. He has one already but he loses it and gets upset and cries and I have to find it. So we got another one. There’s like a fabric ball inside that makes and crunchy sound, I think there maybe a squeaker too, I’m not 100% sure. I feel like his squeaked at one point in time
Properly may never be a thing, but harnesses that attach in the front under the chest make any dog I have ever met who pulls 100x easier. My mom thought my Aussie was so well behaved and easy and didn't need to have the harness on, I told her to do herself and leave it on if she took him out. They decided not to listen; and he decided to drag my parents down the street. If only parents could learn to listen and follow directions.. haha A lot of people really like the "gentle leaders" that attaches to their snouts, I just feel like them seem mean; but I have seen them work wonders as well.
Something like this is what I was referring to: Harness $20 on Amazon
If you have never seen/heard of them, the whole idea is that a clip that connects over the back aims all of their strengh directly in line to pull away from you, where if they attempt to pull with it clipped in the front it torques their body steering them away from where they are attempting to get to and they can't get the leverage to pull, so for the most part, they simply don't.
ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent, Clay/Rust https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BMKD1DU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MGKYCb58N5DJQ
First solo tent I’ve ever purchased has done me wonders in three seasons and got me through a 3 day hike in the Colorado Mountains in October.
https://www.rei.com/product/110837/rei-co-op-passage-2-tent
The second is what we bought before we got the dogs, also great for 3 seasons. Definitely heavier than I’d like but for short excursions it does the job.
Both are on the cheap side but have done well for what I need.
This might be easier to find. I think the long snake had more. Our mini likes the small squeakers not the ones that look like orange juice cans inside and are loud. The small ones sound more like mice I think. https://www.amazon.com/Ethical-Pets-Skinneeez-Squeakers-Alligator/dp/B00HSJFF3I?SubscriptionId=AKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q&tag=duckduckgo-ffab-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B00HSJFF3I
There is already a lot of good advice in this thread. Don't give in, feed her meals in her crate, etc. But here is something else you can try as well.
Before I got my puppy, I was browsing this sub and someone recommended this behavioral aid toy.
I ordered it and I think it worked great. At the very least, it made me feel better about tearing her away from her mom and litter mates! I used the heart ticker for a long time afterwards too just to calm her down for sleep time.
Yeah, it can/should be short enough that she can still eat/drink with it on.
One of mine was just spayed and she wouldn't stop freaking out with the plastic collar. Got her a zen collar and she doesn't mind it at all. Would recommend.
https://www.amazon.com/ZenPet-Collar-Comfy-Collar-XX-Large/dp/B00XN0XR0O
Noodle runs in front of me for the first mile or so then calms down and comes to my side. I always felt a little bad, so I got a harness that clips in the back for this. My buddy skateboards with his labs and has a couple of these (https://www.amazon.com/Canine-Equipment-Ultimate-Pulling-Harness/dp/B00J59JDVY) specifically so they can pull without hurting themselves.
Functionally I don't see anything wrong with it, but I'd be interested to know what others think. Maybe inconsistent if you are strict about your pup walking next to you? Not sure.
I had a border/aussie with a worse version of your problems. She was a rescue who had been purchased at a pet shop from a puppy mill. One vet surmised her mom might not have had proper nutrition while pregnant or nursing perhaps. She also had soft teeth that wore off easily. Long story short, boots and https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002XIZXY/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1 <= Protects paws and treats them if tender.