New puppy!

[Kenyth]

Well, cage poo clean-up last night was more than the wife could handle. It got stepped in.

I did the clean-up because it doesn't bother me as much, but the smell permeated the entire house and took hours to air out. She was in tears from frustration. The pup has now had the cage moved to the garage until he is house broken. I put the cage down on insulating material, put some towels down inside, and wrapped the cage in an old comforter and tarp. I'm worried about the temperature. It's cold up here in Indiana. We took him our every two hours and he's learning. He's not shivering, so I assume he's OK and the garage is warm enough for him and his thick coat.

Anyone know if this is going to be a problem for him? Sheperds are supposed to fare well in the cold IIRC, but I want to be careful. Do they make heating pads for kennels? Do I need one?

[ashauler]

Yes, heating pads are available for kennels, though the need for one is up to you. Sheperds are indeed able to handle the cold, provided they can remain dry and have a place out of the wind....which in the garage won't be a problem. That is where our dogs stay, but they do come in to sleep at night. More because my wife wants to have them inside than any need to keep them in.

The consistent 2 hr trips outside for "potty" will work in time. One thing we have learned is to take the pup to the same place every time you go out and speak the same words, like "Go Potty". When you put the pup down on the ground to do its business, if it attempts to get up and walk away, grab it and put it back down and repeat your potty words. If after a few attempts still no potty, go back in side and try again in a bit. Pretty soon, all you'll have to do is say the potty words and if he has to go, he'll beat you to the back door. Of course if he does potty, praise - praise - praise.