Around the House

Food and water dishes should never be elevated. A puzzle bowl can be used to provide mental stimulation occasionally. All bowls should be washed daily. A flat leash and collar work or slip lead are the best for training. A harness can be used for a seatbelt in the car, but will encourage pulling if used before leash work is completed. A flexi or retractable leash should never be used. For recall work, a long line is a great tool. Crates should be large enough for a puppy to turn around in and stretch out, but not big enough that they can have a separate potty area. The recommended crate comes with a divider to make the crate the right size as the puppy grows. Most of our puppies will be comfortable in a 36” crate as adults, but larger puppies may need a 42”. Until the puppy is crate trained, an exercise pen can be used to create a safe area for the puppy while they are unattended. If a puppy will be home alone for longer than 2-3 hours for the first few months home, a litterpan (washing machine tray) and litter (alfalfa pellets) is recommended to be used for potty training. Crate bedding should never be overly warm or fluffy. Doodles become overly warm and uncomfortable and therefore prefer a soft cooling mat. Covering the crate with a light blanket is preferred to create a den-like feel that most dogs enjoy. A licking mat is your puppy pacifier and should be “loaded” with canned puppy food and taken to all vet and grooming appointments, when visiting new places, etc.