Saturday, January 3, 2009

Puppy Poo Year!

Or does it go Yap and Chew Year? I don't know any more cuz my new year has started with a brand new puppy!

Yea, sorry I haven't written in a while, but puppy training is tough. I've been really focusing on giving the new dog all my attention and love and affection.... uh oh.....looks like someone wants to cuddle..... down, Josh, down! (someone is a little jealous!)

Well, without further delay
Meet Archie
"Hi, I'm Archie, short for Archer. That's my daddy's favorite typeface.....whatever that means."

He is a 2 year old chihuahua/fox terrier mix that we rescued from a shelter here in Illinois. His temperament is so sweet and he loves to cuddle. We chose him because of his calm energy and the way he loved to be held like a baby. Already he can sit, understands how to use his crate, and is housebroken.... well, sort of.....

I could use some help with that one, especially from those of you with small dogs. We have shown him that we are reliable pack leaders and he is quite submissive. He sits on command, focuses on us during a walk, lets us walk in doorways before he does, waits for permission to eat and shows his belly when he wants attention; however, he might be a little too submissive and to show us he needs a confidence boost, he pissed on a wall to mark his territory! Ahhhhhh! Since he is a rescue, we have no idea what his history is and I am really trying to build his trust and confidence (without sacrificing my fine home goods!). Any suggestions?


"I know, Mommy, why don't you let me sleep in your bed and you get the crate!?"





Have any of you ever adopted? Let me know your experiences, it will surely help with mine! Until then, back to the cat-nap--I mean, puppy-nap!

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

I've adopted, and I think Auggie turned out pretty awesome... I'd be glad to give you guys pointers. Uh, in real life though. This interweb thing takes too long...

Dr. Silbaugh said...

Cute dog, nice work. I'm stoked you guys have a dog now they are so much entertainment! Next time he pees in the house, spray him instantly with a 30% solution of vinegar water in the face while simultaneously saying a stern "no," and carry him outside lightning quick. When he resumes peeing outside, reward him with a highly preferred treat (betsy boo boo poo poos will do anything for a bacon snack) and really high praise. Withhold those treats only for reinforcing outside potties. That should do the trick for the typical housebreaking issues pretty fast, but be prepared for separation anxiety! Shelter dogs get very attached to their loving new owners. :)

Miss Crystal Renee said...

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Finally!!! :) You should put him in that sweet basket on your bike. :) He is so cute, and the name, very creative! :) Muah!

Anonymous said...

He's so cute! You should call the next best thing to the dog whisperer (my dad) for tips. If he can train Magic Cake (who was returned twice) he can figure out how to potty train Archie. xo-Linds

Ashley said...

aaah soooo cute. im dying over that photo of the nap with josh. adorable!!!!!! congrats! ,

Sabrina said...

oh i love that last pic, so sweet... um let's see... when Falcor misbehaves i just shake him... KIDDING ... i only do that to the babies ... JOKE AGAIN... um? i don't know, maybe you should pee on him? that'll teach him "spray my shit one more time dog & i'll spray you!" yeah, that's my advice. try it & let me know how it works out for ya :D

Anonymous said...

I can't wait to meet him in June...
Which means...when do you want visitors???
Love, Mandees

sarah marie p said...

Awwww!!!! Archie is the cutest! Congrats on getting your pup! I know you've been wanting a little one for a while now! SO, so exciting! I want one!!!

So@24 said...

I think I saw the last picture in an issue of Chicken Soup for the Soul

Anonymous said...

I have three rescues. The housebreaking will come with time. Mostly, to stop the accidents, just adjust your schedule. Every two hours at most, take Archie out when you are home with him. And the best advice ever? Watch It's Me or the Dog on Animal Planet. Victoria Stillwell is awesome.