First post - new pup - lots of questions!

[MissJorgy]

Hi, my name is Sarah, and my family just purchased a 8 week old rottie pup. My husband is Allen, my 10 month old son is Aaron. The pup's name is Angel.

Ever since I was younger (I am only 20 now) I wanted a rottie, but my mom refused for illogical reasons. We just bought a home after living in apartments for awhile, and once we knew we could get a dog, I knew I wanted a rottie. We found an ad in the paper, and checked it out ... by all looks, I guess you could call them backyard breeders. They used to be serious about it, but their house burned down and they decided not to breed anymore. However, people kept requesting pups so they had a litter every once in great while ... and this litter that our pup is from, was the female's last litter, the mom is about 12 years old. The male is about 4 years old. Both have show champion blood in their lines, so they said. Both parents were extrememly friendly and the owners sounded knowledgeable, so I didn't classify them in the BYB group ... anyway ...

Since bringing her home, everyone and their aunt has been telling us what mean, vicious dogs rotties are. Of course, the only ones who say this have NEVER owned one, never even KNOWN someone who owns one. A handful of people have told us they are great family dogs, these are the people who HAVE owned one. Obviously, I don't believe the ignorant people. They really are trying to scare me, bringing my baby into the picture ... of course I don't want to have an animal that could be dangerous to my son ... my research has shown me that a rottie would be a good dog for us, and I believe I have the ability to train BOTH my dog and kids to respect each other.

Sometimes I wonder, though ... when she growls as she chews her rope bone, or when she plays rough with me ... I know all puppies do this, but it sets me on alert with her. What should I be doing NOW to ensure that Angel will be a good dog? I know as much as socializing and training ... but to what extent? What should I do when she plays rough? What should I do when she growls at someone?

Another thing: What should I do when people ask to pet her? I have been taking her for short walks in our small town, first the quiet streets and then today we walked on main street. She did really well, didn't growl at people passing, and the cars and trucks didn't bother her. But people want to pet her and they just RUSH up to her and pick her up before I can utter a word .... what do you say to these people? I would never do that, I have always respected dogs and their space - and if I didn't know a certain dog or even puppy I would never just rush up and grab it and pet it. I might ask, but normally I don't even do that. I just smile at the owners and walk on. Today a herd of young kids came up and were petting her at once, I turned my body and said "one at a time, she's she's scared," but they didn't listen too well. Part of me can't wait when she's big and intimidating - no one would think to just reach at her and touch. So, what type of socializing should I allow with her? I don't want her to be scared of anyone, but I would be scared if that many kids ran up to me.

I probably have more questions, but I can't think of them. I did order Rottweilers for Dummies, on a recommendation from some other thread on this board. I have always thought I knew enough about dogs in general, but I don't want to assume I know enough about rotties ... as we want a good experience for all of our family.

Thanks in advance!

Sarah

[rottnkidd]

Hello Sarah - There's nothing wrong with allowing people to pet your puppy. This is good socialization, however, YOU are the owner, and YOU decide who will be petting and cooing over the pup. If you see your pup is getting stressed by all the excitement, then say so! And I wouldn't allow strangers to pick the pup up. It would be a good idea to get a few books on the Rottweiler. Generally this is something we do BEFORE we get the dog. You have a 10 mo old son and an 8 wk old puppy. There's alot of work with both! I hope you didn't make this decision in haste. Are you crate training? I'd start looking into Obedience
classes now, and meanwhile you can start some training at home.
Don't get angry when the pup is mouthing or nipping. This is what puppies do. Instead redirect the biting to something appropriate, like a nice chew toy, or a 'frozen' washcloth for those puppy teeth. Be sure to always praise the pup for using the toy for chewing. Work on housebreaking. Find a designated outdoor area for pup to eliminate, arm yourself with some treats, and make a big fuss and praise the pup when she goes.
If she has an accident indoors, and you didn't 'see' her doing it, ignore it. Clean the area thoroughly and go about your business. If you DO catch the pup going, immediately pick her up and take her to the designated outdoor area, and tell her "This is where you pee!" If she goes outdoors, then praise like crazy.
As far as people talking about your pup, because she's a Rottweiler. Tell them something positive about the breed. Remind them of the Rottweiler presence at Ground Zero, the many
involved in Therapy work with the elderly or sickly children, the numbers that have achieved Titles in Obedience, Herding, Tracking, Agility.... The Rottweiler isn't for everyone. This is a dog that requires a serious commitment from the owner(s). Training isn't something you can fluff off. It's an absolute necessity with a breed of this size and strength. The Rottweiler's that achieve these levels of success are owned by people seriously committed to the betterment of the breed. This is a dog bred to work. And work it must, or boredom and lack of leadership in the household lends itself to another front page horror story. You've made the decision to own a Rottweiler. It's your home and your family, and it's up to YOU to set the rules. You don't need to scream and holler at the pup. Remember, this is just a pup. She didn't 'ask' to become part of your family. You made that decision for her, so give her a good start in a loving home. Be fair, be firm and be
consistent. Best wishes to all of you.
kathy

[Judy Chrusch]

Hi Sarah it's nice to meet you, congrats on your new puppy:D. This is a wonderful place to listen, learn, and make new friends :D. God knows I've made many through a crisis I recently went through but stick around, ask any and all questions and be ready for at times maybe some criticism but everyone here means well. Kathy did a fine job of answering your questions, pretty much what I would say and as she said you are the owner so you call all the shots but the more socializing you do at a young age the better, let her greet as many people as she wants and don't make her like everyone. I always asked people to let my dog go up to them. I was never too fond of kids and people hovering over my puppy w/o slowly introducing themselves and you will find that your pup won't take to everyone and that's o.k. too. Learn her body language so you can handle any situation that may arise later on as she matures. Get to know her moves and what she may be thinking through her actions. Of course if you would see she's a bit agitated by someone, politely ask them to back off. My dog doesn't particularly like men who have alcohol on their breath, his protectiveness takes over especially if it's just him and I for a walk but boy those who are real dog people, he can't get enough of, he loves the attention but Czar likes things on his terms, sometimes that's good and sometimes not but anyway, enjoy your baby, have fun and remember she will pick up on your body language and your attitude so just stay calm and patient and enjoy getting to know each other. Best of luck to you.

Judy

[shybird]

All good advice so far and I would like to add a couple of things. First socializing is a must, but becareful where you take the pup before she has had all her shots. Not a real good thing to walk around where other dogs are going potty. Carry her. When she has had all her shots get into a puppy class for dog to dog socializing. Take her everywhere you can, getting her use to all kinds of situations. And to those people who bad mouth your pup you can just politely say:
"Mean dogs aren't born, they're made that way"... It is something I read somewhere and to me it says it all. A dog is what the owner makes it.....
Good luck with your new pup.

[AngelBunny]

MissJorgy:

"We found an ad in the paper, and checked it out ... by all looks, I guess you could call them backyard breeders. They used to be serious about it, but their house burned down and they decided not to breed anymore. However, people kept requesting pups so they had a litter every once in great while ... and this litter that our pup is from, was the female's last litter, the mom is about 12 years old. The male is about 4 years old. Both have show champion blood in their lines, so they said. Both parents were extrememly friendly and the owners sounded knowledgeable, so I didn't classify them in the BYB group."

Since reputable breeders don't advertise litters in the paper, thinking your Angel's breeders aren't BYBs is generous on your part. And is the bitch really 12 yo??? Go back far enough in almost any Rottie's line and you'll find champions, so the fact the breeders claimed the bitch and the stud "have show champion blood in their lines" doesn't mean anything. Sticking around here will help you understand the difference between BYBs and reputable breeders.

Angel's breeders should be a source of info and you have should have no hesitation in contacting them for advice.

At any rate, you have Angel now and you've certainly come to the right place for help and info.

The only way to prove all those nay-sayers wrong about your Angel is to socialize her, train her, and do your utmost to ensure she's an upright good canine citizen.

[LavenderRott]

I got my Chase when I was pregnant with my son, who is now four. She was older and I rescued her from animal control with no idea about her background. She is a superb animal with my son. They are best friends. With training and attention, your Angel will be great with your son.

The others have given you great advice. They definately know what they are talking about.

Welcome to the forum. I am sure that you will find yourself just as addicted to this place as everyone else.

[MissJorgy]

Yes, she's 12 ... she looks ancient.

Another question ... my 9 yo sis in law is over and is running from Angel, making her chase. Angel is growling and barking, obviously playing, but should we discourage this behavior? I am thinking we should, but I don't want to be a party pooper and ban all puppy fun for Angel.

We took her to Duluth, MN today and she did very well with walking on the leash and people passing by. Everyone wanted to stop and pet her, and she let them, unless it was a big group and then she ran under me. It's too bad the weather is getting cold, I'd like to go places like that every weekend.

So far Angel knows that for a treat, she must sit before I give it to her. I find her sitting all the time, hoping for a treat. She seems very smart.

We live in an extremely rural area, I can't imagine where I could take an obedience class with her. No one around here seems to care about their dogs, they are mostly backyard ornaments.

Thanks for the replies!

Sarah

[LavenderRott]

Check and see if there is a 4-H group in the area. I think that group is national and not just local. They usually offer dog training classes.

[tilerspop]

Congrats on the new pup!!:) It seems everyone wants to pet a puppy. I would recommed against unrestricted petting of the puppy. Tiler is 4 yo and folks normally ask before approaching him, he can look fearsome. Sammy on the other hand is 3 months old, and everyone wants to pet her. If people ask politely, the answer is usually yes for both dogs. People who do not ask first are politely told No. I usually explain that I don't want the dog to become too familiar with strangers and would they please assist in helping me train her by walking away and then returning and asking to pet the pup. I tell them that it is important that the pup learn that my permission is required to allow strangers to touch her. It normally works well, even if it isn't true:)

Nobody is allowed to pick up any of my dogs. Of course Tiler is 100 lbs. even I don't pick him up. Tiler also discourages anybody picking up Sammy or Suzy. I don't know why, but picking up a dog or child for that matter really agitates him.

When children approach and want to pet any of the dogs I go have the dog sit and go down on one knee next to the dog. This way I am closer to the situation and can control both children and dog. I tell the kids to come forward slowly and offer their hand to the dog for a sniff. I explain that this is how the dog gets to know you. I also explain that they should be careful around dogs and should not do this with a dog they don't know or the dogs owner is not there. After the introduction They get to pet the dog as much as they want or time allows. With Tiler, he shakes their hand goodbye.

Keep posting your questions here. Listen to the answers or advice. There is no better place, but be careful, this site is addictive:D

[Rottnlove]

This is a good thread- I'm getting my puppy in over a month, so I have much preparing left to do before the puppy comes.

As for people reaching out and petting, I'd tell them to please ask first before reaching out and petting the puppy.

It's rather rude to just go up to someone's dog and just pet the dog. I always ask first before touching anyone's dog. What if that dog is afraid of strangers? Ya never know. It's just common courtesy to ask the owner if it's ok to pet the puppy first.

One thing that worries me is going to the veterinary clinic. Everyone and their brother wants to pet the cute puppy. I know what needs to be done. The puppy stays in the crate, on my lap, or right by my side!!!! It's just too risky before they're fully vaccinated. We all know of the risks before vaccinations are up to date. I'm not willing to chance that.

[TrishB]

I'm dealing with this right now. Parker is very cute (which puppy isn't???). So while we are on our walks, people are constantly asking to pat him. As long as they ask and I approve, they're allowed to. I don't let people just start touching him (I basically just keep him moving - if they really want to pat him, they'll ask ;)). I always want him to assocciate new people with:

1) The new people talking to me first.
2) Me giving permission for them to play with him.
3) Him getting attention with the same rules that he has with me / in my home.

There may be a day where I don't want someone to pat him. Without going through the proper channels, I would prefer that he stays at my side and that he accepts that.

One woman in particular was irritating. She was kneeling and patted her knees, drawing Parker to jump up to get patted. I asked her to not pat him unless all 4 paws were on the ground. She did it again. I asked her to stop. She then went on to complain how her own dog jumps up on everyone....

I simply stated that if she wouldn't stop encouraging him to jump up that she wouldn't be allowed to pat him any more. We walked away.

I might be seen as a *itch. But there's no way that I'm going to have a 100+ lbs dog that jumps on people.

If it won't be cute when he's an adult, it shouldn't be cute now.

[rottnkidd]

Originally posted by TrishB
If it won't be cute when he's an adult, it shouldn't be cute now. [/b]

Trish - Very good point! Too bad more people don't think of that!
The woman that was encouraging Parker to jump on her, would more then likely be the same woman that would make a huge scene if he did that to her as an adult!
kathy

[tilerspop]

What a great point. If you don't want them to do something when they're full grown, don't allow it when they're a pup. It reminds me of a story I heard back east - may be urban legend, who knows, but it illustrates this point so well - - -.

It seems a young boy got a colt for his birthday, all fall he worked on teaching the colt new tricks. Among the tricks was for the colt to run up and put his fore hooves on his shoulders. Winter came and the colt was shipped south to better weather.

6 months later the colt returned home with the warm weather, the boy was very excited to have his freind back. he ran out into the pasture and -- you guessed it -- the now almost fully grown horse ran up and put his fore hooves on the boys shoulders. Broke both shoulders and numerous other bones, extensive surgery and therapy was required.

Don't teach a large breed animal to do things when they're small that you don't want them to do when they're big!!