New Pup Help | Thread profile

What are some of the first steps to getting my pups (GSP) off on the right foot?

I'm assuming they are young...around 7-10 weeks. You want to socialize the pups a lot; get 'em around people and other dogs. Also let them run, play and generally have an all-round good time. You can (and should) teach them "no" at this time as well. Remember they are only pups, so don't expect total obedience, but you do want to be firm and consistent in disciplining the dogs. Give 'em plenty of...

Do what hunter recommended, on the actual dog work, what I do with any breed....retriever or bird dog, It would be alot of typing, I would be more than happy to explain the what and why, I do several puppy programs yearly and have 3 pups here now, 2 bird dogs and an 9 week retriever. you pm me a phone # and I would be more than happy to assist in the dogs start. ok?? Thanks Dave Jones Jonesy's ...

Good book for pups is Joan Bailey's How to help Bird dogs Train Themselves. If you like you can borrow my copy. You can email at portsider44@yahoo.com for contact info.

Here are my recommendations I want to add to Hunter20ga's reply. Crate trainning: Make the crate comfortable for the dog. Make it a safe haven. Never disapline a dog by crating it. The first few nights keep the dog near you. It will whine but eventually settle down when it knows you are there. Potty trainning: Wake up every 3-4 hours to let the relieve itself at night. Be consistant. Eventually...

Excellent advice, Mite!

Thanks for the help everyone.

I also like Joan Bailey's book -- geared specifically to pup's first yearand focuses on exposing pup to everything you can without rushing things.My pup is almost ten weeks now -- I am focused on bonding with him,introducing basic obedience rules (house training, chewing, jumping,nipping, etc), and exposing him to things to build his confidence. Goodluck!