Scott Linden Outdoors

Plotting his next move.

I’m the first to admit to having no expertise when it comes to puppies. Flashes here and there from Manny’s early days seven years ago, insights from the many information sources I swear by, and once in a while a new-to-me revelation. In many cases, it all comes down to the old oil filter commercial: pay me now, or pay me later.

Planning ahead, making allowance for repetitive needs or challenges will reap dividends long into Flick’s adolescence. If your house has or recently had a new canine resident, maybe you can relate. If you’re hoping for one soon, maybe these tips will help you maintain your sanity.

Yes, puppies bite. A friend calls his pup a velociraptor and it’s an apt description of those razor blades they carry in their mouths disguised as “milk teeth.” (Who needs teeth for milk, anyway?) In addition to the vocal “ouch” strategy I am now armed with a chew toy at all times as a substitute for my hands and arms.

Early on, food is the great motivator. In another pocket is a bag full of treats. Teaching Flick “here” and his name is a day-long opportunity and smelly, tasty food helps.

Exercise is, and always will be, the best remedy for “disobedience,” however you define it. Safe outside walks, yardwork, training, will all wear the “bad dog” out of many puppies. But nothing works like a playmate. We are fortunate to have a five-year-old Corgi female that has glommed onto this little dog she can boss around (in good fun) until he outweighs her. Thank you Penny.

Many people will tell you the price of the puppy is the least of your expenses, and they are right. Efficiency and time-motion management are the key with Flick, so duplicates of some gear are to me, simply wise investments in my mental health. Two exercise pens in strategic locations, several crates scattered in good spots, innumerable toys and bowls all minimize searching when time is of the essence.

Speaking of toys (more on this later), the best toys fight back – they crunch, swing, flap, squeak, or pull. As noted, the best toy is a living, breathing dog but even Penny eventually gets tired of puppy play, so I’m constantly devising stuff that will safely entertain Flick when she needs a break.

I’m learning so much with Flick, building on what I learned with Manny, based on what I learned with Buddy, Yankee and Bill. Thanks to all of them.

Maybe another book is in order.