[Britster]

Originally Posted by kdhawks

I don't think that I am "strict" - but then again, I didn't have Levi as a puppy. He was almost potty-trained when I got him, just needed encouragement. Even now, if he has an accident, I don't get upset. I just clean it up and move on with my life. Accidents happen and they are pretty rare.

I am stricter about some things: I only buy certain foods/treats/toys, I take him outside and feed him on a schedule, he's only allowed off-leash in a safely fenced area, he rides in a car seat, I monitor him when he plays with other dogs. But I don't think I am strict. He's allowed to run around and play and be crazy. I don't freak out if he gets into another dog's food, I let him take the crappy treats the Petsmart employees hand out at the register, we visit dog parks and stores and anywhere dog-friendly frequently. I think I am stricter when it comes to his health, safety, and well-being...but I fully believe in letting a dog be a dog.

Yep -- this is exactly me, too.