I haven't had a puppy in 15 years. My previous companions, Maize (14) passed away in Nov. 08 from cancer and Kiv passed away about a month ago from old age. They both were my constant companions (as well as Brooke, my 17-year-old cat companion).

Yesterday Brooke and I welcomed Apple Lou into our home.

Apple Lou is a 9-week-old (very active and rambunctious) Dutch Shepherd. Maize and Kiv went everywhere with me...and was welcome everywhere. I actually did not formally train them, their personalities were just loving and they loved every person (and all cats) but were hesitant and shy with other dogs.

I read Leeburg's site yesterday. I wasn't planning on Crating Apple Lou, but upon learning that some dogs naturally don't get along with cats, I decided crating was a 'really' good idea. I bought the largest crate that also has the partition and read every site I could on how to make it her best atmosphere. She has had absolutely NO training.

She whined for a bit last night, but eventually fell asleep. It was storming horribly last night and I couldn't take her outside, so I got her out of the crate every two hours and took her to the puppy pad area by the back door. She never went until this morning when she got to go outside. Before getting the crate, she urinated on the carpeting three times (of course I wasn't looking) and pooped twice. Today I leashed her with me (I work at home) the entire day, and took her outside for play time about every hour where she took the time to play, run and pee and poop. Thankfully because of this site I may get through this with my carpet intact .

We also started training. Obviously leash training and sitting. She had it down pat until she was too tired each time. Then she found a stick, I threw it and she picked it up proudly and brought it back. Wow. So, I realize I can do this daily.

I only have her on a harness. My cat has always known dogs and comes right up to Apple. Apple snapped twice - but thankfully was on a leash and I was able to pull her back, say no and give her the squeaky toy. When she lost focus on the cat, and started having fun with the squeaky I praised her.

The only problem my cat has is when Apple is in the crate and whining. My cat doesn't like it. But Apple seems to be getting very comfy in it. She is in it right now watching me type. Very curious.

What else can I be doing in these first weeks? I can't take her to the dog park for about another month or so. She does go out and has access to our many neighbors which all seem to want to help teach the 'sit' command...which she loves showing them she can do for that little piece of kibble.

I also need to go read all of this forum. I love it. I have quite a bit of time to help Apple acclimate to her new family. I just want to make sure we all live harmoniously. Her breed scared me a bit.

Sorry for the long post.

Welcome to the forum!

It sounds like you are doing everything perfect and by the book.

I'd just do more of what you are doing. Taking her out to explore the world and play. Just be a puppy.:smile:

After reading through the site, you'll find that most people here stay away from dog parks. And for good reason.

Most dogs there aren't under any control by their owners. Fights can easily break out, and a small puppy could get roughed up even in play.

I'd skip them. You don't want her to have a bad experience with other dogs. There are plenty of other things you can go do. I promise that skipping out on dog parks will not hinder any of her development as a dog.:smile:

Ok, first, Congrats! now start reading:

http://leerburg.com/pdf/dogparks.pdf


http://leerburg.com/puppytraining.htm


There is an awesome amount of great info in these articles. I have learned so very much from these, and I have had multiple dogs/puppies for years.

Best wishes and post pics! I love Dutchies!

Hi Barbie:
Congrats on your new addition. What breeder did Apple Lou come from? Cute name, btw.

Wow, I just read the dogparks.pdf file. Okay, really glad I found this site. I am def. getting pepper spray. I should already have it in my neighborhood!

Would dog training at my local Petsmart be a good start to acclimate her to other dogs? I really want her to know social skills. I love my version of 'yappy hour' which she will eventually be a participant in (picnics, yard sales, bbqs, rides to the mountains, etc.)...I want her to have the opportunity to experience other 'well mannered' canines and smells and potential running-in-the-mud dreams at night with other pups.

I have to read the other pdf file now.

Again, thanks for that link. I never thought about the 'neglectful' dog owners. I need to facebook connect with this site too!

I wouldn't consider doing a training session at petsmart until you have ALL the basic obedience skills down perfect at home! TOOO hard for pups to learn! Much more experienced trainers will chime in on this one as well when they see the post, I'm sure.

Welcome to the Dutch Shepherd club! What drew you to the breed? They are the best! Where did you get Apple Lou?

Welcome to the forum, Barbie! I had not had a pup for only six years before I got Falcon and was SHOCKED at the amount of effort he required!! (Had I really AGED in those few years!) If you have gone fifteen between pups - you go girl!

Crate train. Marker train. Tether the pup to you when out of the crate. Avoid dog parks. Have fun and bond with your new little gal. Read all you can off this forum and continue asking questions...

POST PICS!!!

Again, welcome!

Yes Yes Yes!! We want PICTURES! Little brindle dutchie pictures!!!

 Quote: Kelly Byrd

Yes Yes Yes!! We want PICTURES! Little brindle dutchie pictures!!!

No! We want little red furred, with tan and black dutchie pictures!! LOL!

LOL. She is beautiful brindle (oddly, so much like my cat) with golden red and black.) her face is all black. Her ears are soft but that's okay, it gives her the extra smile when she cocks her head. I have to find my camera. Haven't seen it since my last outing - although might be a good excuse to get a better one ; )

I had never heard of dutch shepherds and then there you all are that know all about them. I am in awe of this website and the great families it harbors.

Apple Lou is a rescue. She was found at a truck stop and brought-n-dropped off in Arizona. She wasn't chipped (she is now). I can't believe how well she is in the crate after last nights screams. I always thought it was cruel to crate. But she is so happy in it...and loves the crunchy-kibble-drop-as-mommy-walks-by. She sees me going to the bag, stands up, watching my every move and I swear she smiles, her ears so perk up then when she sees my hand reach in the bag she drops into the play position. Too cute. This is only day two and I already feel so much love for and from her.

I have never written this much...perhaps never had so much to say. I have been watching videos of Dutch Shepherds and see how bright and playful they are. She is an unexpected angel and I only hope I give her the same joy I know she will give me.

I type too much! lol