Quote:
Originally Posted by NODAK  Five things:
1) We're going to let him use puppy pads to get potty trained at least for indoors, because of our work hours. That way, there's no more laying around in waste. And that way, the repetitive bathing goes away.
2) I'm going to make more of an effort to play with him when I'm home....I'll actually start taking him out of the crate when I get home, and not wait for Heidi to do so once she gets home (I get home an hour before her).
3) We're going to get him a sister (or mate, whichever it turns out to be) to keep him socialized throughout the day. I've been told by a member here AND on other boards I've been on that this is indeed a good step. Some people here may object to us getting another dog, but it seems as if it would improve their quality of lives to have one another while nobody is home.
4) We'll increase the amount of size they have when we're not home. This does not mean giving them reign of the house....but it means more room to play around in, with a greater separation between sleeping area and waste area.
5) We will provide water at all times during the day. However, we'll maintain regular feeding times as usual.
Is that at least a good start?? People here love to say I never listen....but after that....you tell me if that's a good step. |
Your definitely moving in a positive direction. The only thing I would tell you is to not get a second dog. The second dog will mean more work and more time necessary. A second dog does not necessarily mean that they will learn faster to potty train. I think honestly it would be best if you worked with Tanner and as he is older then if you are comfortable contemplate a second dog.
You can socialize Tanner by letting him play with the cats you say you have and also spending time with him.
Male dogs tend to bond faster to the woman in the house especially if she is the mommy and giving all the attention...so don't be put off by his lack of bonding with you. He will bond with you in time just probably not as much as with Heidi.
You can have lots of quality time with both Tanner and Heidi so don't compete with him or let him and his presence put a kink in your relationship. When you make those long romantic walks you can take Tanner along.
Give it a chance and you will come to see how much fun that little bundle of energy will be.