INTRODUCING THE COLLAR AND LEASH
When your puppy has had a few days to settle into your household, it will be time to introduce the collar and leash. Make sure that the collar is tightened to allow enough space to fit two fingers between your puppy’s neck and the collar. Put it on just before something pleasant is going to happen. For example, if you are about to play with him or take him outside. He will probably frantically attempt to scratch it off at first. Ignore this and praise him as soon as it stops. After a few moments, distract his attention from his collar with the next event. Take it off during this event and put it back on later. After a few days he will get used to the collar and begin to ignore it. It can then be left on all the time if you choose.
Remember that puppies easily get lost so attach an identification tag if there is any chance he will be able get out of the house.
Remember that puppies grow at a tremendous rate and the hair will also cause the collar to be tighter as it gets longer so check the collar often to make sure that it still fits well.
When she is used to being restrained by the collar, attach a leash and let drag it around during a few play sessions so she can become use to the feel of it. Pick up the end of the leash sometimes, but keep still when you do this. Your puppy needs to learn that being on the leash means that she is fastened to her owner and cannot go where she wants anymore. When she has accepted the restrain, praise her and let her go free again.
PUPPY KINDERGARTEN
Everyday your puppy lives with you, he learns new things. Puppy kindergarten sets the foundation upon which you’re future communication is built. There are three levels:
1. Teach It – Teaching is the repetition of words followed by action. You do this over and over until amazingly one day you say the command he obeys. Treats should be used to aid in this stage.
2. Use It – This is the homework stage. The puppy is still on lead, and you set aside time to practice the command. This is the longest stage of any training and involves practicing in different locations and from different positions. Always maintain control and be ready to guide the dog into the correct response. Use of treat rewards should begin to decrease gradually.
3. Expect It – The last level is the stage we all want: when the doorbell rings, you say sit and he does. It’s the result of hardwork, practice and praise. If you continue to use the commands often, your Chin will develop an automatic response and become immediately obedient. Use of treat rewards should be kept to a minimum.
SOCIALIZATION
Socialization is the most important process in a puppy’s life, and how much of it you do or fail to do will be reflected directly in the future character of your puppy. Your puppy will be well on its way to being a well-socialized and well-adjusted Chin when you bring her home. It is essential that you continue the process we have started to insure the future well being of your dog and in the formation of a well-balanced, friendly adult. The first few months in your home are some of the most important of all the years you will have together. Time spent now is a sound investment in the sanity of your dog and yourselves. Until the puppy completes her vaccinations, you should restrict where you take her. Have the world come to you. Invite friends and family over so she is exposed to all sights and sounds of modern day life. If possible, take her for short trips in the car but of course do not leave her unattended in the car. Do not allow her to walk around on any unknown surfaces where she could be exposed to illnesses and germs.
If your Chin is hesitant do not force her but don’t soothe her either. Act, as you want your puppy to act. It is critical that you let your puppy learn at her own speed. Most fears can be conquered if you are patient, moving forward one step at a time.
When you take on a puppy, you assume the role of parent and pack leader. Therefore, during your puppy’s early life, it is up to you to protect him from bad experiences. This does not mean that you should overprotect him, but it does mean that you will need to think about the way he is viewing a given situation and if necessary, modify his experience so that he does not become fearful. The secret to good socialization is to try to look at the world from your puppy’s point of view. Try to imagine what it is like to be that small and vulnerable and to have such limited knowledge. Carefully observing his reaction will help you tell if he is even mildly fearful. Watch his ears and tail and body posture. When scared Chins will drop to the floor, everything tucked in as much as possible. Some will shake when frightened. Do not act sympathetically if your puppy becomes apprehensive. Showing your concern will only cause him to think there is something to be afraid of. Try to be jolly and excited so that he sees there is nothing to be scared of.
The tone of your voice is essential. If you speak in a higher pitched almost ‘squeaky’ happy voice your puppy will think something great is happening. If you speak in a low pitch he will assume something is wrong. If your puppy will not play or eat in a new situation, he is probably feeling too much anxiety. You will need to do something to reduce it such as playing with him until he relaxes. His limits will extend everyday and he will soon become unafraid just be careful not to push him beyond those limits.
COMMON HOUSEHOLD DANGERS
Peach/Apricot Pits - Peach and Apricot pits contain a natural form of cyanide. A small chip or piece of a pit is enough to kill your pet. Pits are one of the most dangerous things to watch out for. If you have a peach or apricot tree in your yard or area you should avoid taking your Chin near at all cost.
Houseplants – Many are toxic to pups causing vomiting and diarrhea. Put them out of reach or spray the leaves with Bitter Apple Leaf Protector. If your pup likes to dig in the dirt try large amounts of ground black pepper all over the soil.
Electrical Wires – Chewing on these has started fires and killed pets. Remove what you can, secure the rest and coat with an anti chew product such as Bitter Apple.
Bones – We do not recommend any type of dried bone, rawhide, dried pork or beef products for your Chin. These products contain many preservatives and additives that are unhealthy. Look for all natural bones such as Healthy Edibles or some type of natural dental bone such as Greenies are great alternatives. Chicken, pork and fish bones should never be given to any animal and the tiny bone fragments can cut its insides.
Antifreeze – Bright green, sweet and fatal. It is in many garages and under parked cars in the city. This is a life and death emergency if you think your Chin may have consumed any amount of antifreeze.
Open Windows – Dogs can and have jumped out of open windows that were many floors up and from moving cars. If you keep your windows open make sure there is a screen attached at all times and patio’s should have no areas where your Chin can possibly jump from. When driving, keep windows open only a safe width and don’t allow him to ride with his head out the window.
String, Yarn, Pantyhose – Dogs will eat rope, string, pantyhose and anything like it. If he does, call your vet. It could possibly get tangled in his intestines and kill him so it should be considered an emergency situation. If you see it appearing out the other end, do not pull it out and immediately consult your vet.
Chocolate – Toxic to dogs. Keep chocolate out of reach. Dogs do not crave chocolate as humans do so do not feel that even a little is acceptable and enjoyed.
Tylenol / Acetaminophen / Ibuprofen – Like many human drugs these are toxic to dogs. Ingestion may be lethal if the dog does not receive veterinary treatment.
Lead – Lead poisoning is common dogs because dogs like to chew. Products like paint, plaster, caulking, linoleum, fishing sinkers and sometimes even golf balls contain lead.
Yard Chemicals – A variety of fertilizers and pesticides can cause illness either from inhalation, contact or ingestion. Symptoms can be delayed for days but may be quite severe. Avoid areas recently fertilized and keep your dog out of the room when you use any insecticides indoors.
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