Even though the last time I experienced the puppy stage eight years ago with Storm, I can still remember how frustrating it was. Funny thing is, even though I remember it, dealing with another puppy is like I forgotten about it, even though I haven’t. Does that make sense? I hope so because I’m not sure how else to word that. Hahaha! Things with Benelli are going okay, I’m just not used to having a puppy around. As with a normal human baby, I don’t get the greatest sleep and I run on caffeine. It can be really difficult because it interferes with my Lupus and Fibro. But I know I wouldn’t have anything to look forward to if he wasn’t in my life. It’s just a challenge within a challenge. Haha!
Crate training is rough right now. He screams bloody murder when he’s in his crate. And I mean he is LOUD! Yes, I have put toys in there for him. Yes, I have covered it. Yes, I give him treats right before he goes in and some once he is in it. Yes, I have put in my worn shirt so it smells like me. So far the longest he has lasted is four hours and that is because I was running errands and not having to listen to him. But, I am determined and keep trying even though he doesn’t like it.
We are still working on stairs. He can go up them but can’t figure out how to go down. I suppose it doesn’t help that I always carry him both ways! 🙂
This last weekend my niece and I took him (and my three year old nephew) to the dog park for the first time. He was scared shitless. We were even in the small dog area! 🙂 I tried not to save him and pick him up much but at times I couldn’t help it.
So I am trying to get him socialized and experienced to things but I feel I need to be doing a better job, mostly on socializing with other dogs. I haven’t had a chance to bring him to doggy daycare yet but it is on our list!
He loves the leaves and of course due to his breed he can’t stop chasing them. And that includes cars. We just had our first snowfall but I’m waiting to take pics when there is more since we only have an inch or two.
I find myself wishing time away quite a bit, for him to be an adult and done with the puppy stage. But after that thought, I always make sure to correct and remind myself to stay in the present. Some days are easier than others. 🙂
paws2smile 
He is absolutely adorable! 🙂 xxx
Hehe thank you! 🙂
He is way too cute! Try to enjoy the puppy stage. They grow so fast. I miss the time when Tippy was actually small enough to pick up and carry around. Maybe puppy daycare will help him not be so scared at the dog park. Good luck with the crate training. It can be hard, but is very important. Just look into those eyes when you are frustrated and realize what a precious gift you have been given, take a deep breath, and try again.
He is a cutie. Don’t wish time away, it goes fast enough. When we crate trained Dakota we didn’t give him a toy or anything, he learned the crate was his “safe” place. No food or water in it (just a treat to get him to GO into it, but that was it). Other than at bedtime I tried not to have him in it for too many hours at once…..but he was older than your pup when we got him. Try not to stress out, he will pick up on it. DakotasDen
Puppy stage goes by fast. Do take him to puppy class that help with the loud crying. Best wishes!
Thanks. 🙂 I think I will take him to puppy class, I just need to wait until I have the extra cash. He has the last of his shots at the end of this month. I think….
Well I have puppy fever now. So cute
LOL! I heard puppy breath takes care of that. You better go get a puppy now! 🙂
it#s such a fabulous time… and there are so much “first time” for a little pup… and for us ;o)
He’s just so adorable! 🙂
I understand all the frustration – and how lack of sleep can affect your health – but he will be worth all the hard work. 😀
He is still very tiny for the dog park, unless there’s a puppy class somewhere?
Also, though I have never done crate training (adopting adult dogs) I still never leave my dogs more than 4 hours max. So I think he’s doing very well – and so are you! 😀
Looking forward to more updates and photos 🙂
Hehe thanks. 🙂 Some of the bigger stores have puppy classes and I was thinking about taking him, I just have to wait so I can afford it. Right now all my extra cash goes to his shots.
Very important to have those vaccinations – then he can socialise anywhere 🙂
SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO CUTE!!!!!! I can’t stop squealing!!! My humom doesn’t miss the puppy stage but also misses it at the same time. Does that make any sense? hahaha She knows all too well the potty training and bloody murder screams! My fursister Nymeria still screams bloody murder in her crate too…and she’s 8 months old! Can’t wait to see photos of the little munchkin in the snow!
Hehehe! Thanks 🙂 It makes sense what your humom said about the puppy stage! 🙂
Savor every. single. moment. Too soon those days are gone. If he’s acting scared at the dog park, perhaps try the pet store for him to gain some confidence. And try leaving the crate open periodically so he doesn’t feel like he’s being punished. Good luck. Having a puppy is a brave thing. For him and you! 🐶 He sure is adorable.