Adopting a 5 month old pup

[Guest Anonymous]

We have wanted a puppy for some time. My kids are 6, 8, 10 and 12. We visited the shelter and we all fell for a 5 month old pup - we are told a possible mix of spaniel/border collie/terrier. There is no history of course as the puppy was picked up as a stray. He is shy and somewhat fearful, but seemed to enjoy the gentle hugs from my children. He was not active and barking like a typical puppy but was pretty docile. I have read that the critical time to socialize a puppy is from 2 to 4 months and it appears that this puppy has missed that. Is it to late? What do you think? We are hoping that a safe home and lots of love will be all he needs. Any advice or comments would be greatly apreciated. :-?

[Seijun]

Make sure to do some research on the different breeds the pup is mixed with. Terriers can have high prey drive and border collies are very high energy dogs. I am sure though that this pup will make a wonderful addition to the family :D

~Seij

[izzy]

I guess that puppy will enjoy a lot to be part of a family and he'll become so thankful to you. We adopted Diesel two months ago, he was stray, and now he has the best behave in the house, he love his dogs and cats mates so i guess you're gonna be fine with that puppy.

[Guest Anonymous]

Bought the main puppy supplies today. All of us are excited and a little nervous. We'll pick him up tomorow morning. Praying that he likes us and our home. Time and patience will tell. :-? I am sure I will be looking for tons of advice in the next few days/weeks. Thanks for replying. :D

[imported_Kat]

There is a critical time indeed usually up to 16 weeks of age, but that doesn't mean that a puppy will be a misbehaved rogue if he is not socialised after the critical window. Just take it gently with him with gradual introductions in your house and to strangers whn he is vaccinated and outside. One thing important is not to overwhelm him with lots of excessive cuddles. Let him come to you for the time being and don't let the kids grab him. When he does come to you use gentle praise with his name and treat him with something tasty. You will do just fine I'm sure and of course we will all be looking forward to seeing photos. If you need any advice at all, give any of us a shout here and we will only be too happy to help. :fadein:

[Guest Anonymous]

Brought Buddy home this morning. He toured the house and yard and went in and out of his crate and had some water. Then after a couple of hours we took him to Petsmart for a bath and brush. Poor thing got sick in the car on the way there and got sick in his travel crate on the way home. I guess that money wasn't very well spent. He seems pretty confused and scared. It has not been too much fun yet for us or him, but I told the kids it can only get better. We really want him to be happy but I think he is pretty overwhelmed and we are too. Letting him sleep now. Do puppies nap a lot in the day? One or two long ones or several little ones? Feeling worried but hopeful. All advice welcome!!! :fadein:

[DogPaddle]

Kavik my Border Collie took small naps, spread throughout the day. Hang in there if your pup is bit shy all the changes may be to much for him. I would get a schedule down for him (and for our convenience) and stick to that and not take him anywhere strange, just neighbourhood walks for at least a week. Let him get used to your family, your home and his new life and schedule and then add other stimulae to properly socialize him. Good luck.