You can use human eye wash or Natural Tears on the eye gunk. I usually apply a few drops, then brush out the body while I wait for the gunk to soften up. I may have to apply more drops and wait longer till it softens up. I use a Q-tip or cotton ball to wipe the hair clean once the gunk is softened. That is a very sensitive area... I don't know too many dogs that can tolerate having it brushed out dry. You can use the eye wash a few times during the week also to prevent it from building up too much. If you warm it up a bit it may work quicker.
You can also use Opthalmic antibiotic ointment (from your vet or online) in her eyes, it can help lessen the amount of eye gunk coming out of the eye, and will keep it softer and protect the hair and skin around the eye.
For a dry coat/skin, I use a creme rinse or conditioner as a final step of a bath. I apply quite a lot and work it in really well with my hands, like a massage. I leave it on her for 3-5 minutes, then rinse it out. Then I use a leave-in conditioner spray when I comb out the coat, even when I comb/brush out everyday during the week. That takes care of any dryness I've come across. I wash my dogs every 1-2 weeks.
For pottying, try every 2 hours to begin with. Look for any signals she may give that indicate she has to 'go'. Keep her in the same room you are in, so you will see her, and she can't go off somewhere and sneak a potty in the house. As she becomes more dependable, increase the amount of time between potties. You have to retrain her bladder to be able to 'hold it' for longer periods of time, which takes time and practice. I use a kitchen timer when I have other projects I'm working on, bc I do lose track of time quite often, and the timer is a good way to make me remember to let them out.
Cheese can be rich and can fill them up. I use Cheerios or Gerber's Graduates Puffs for training treats... They love the crunch and can eat a ton of them without filling up...
You could also try walking her right before a bath... might wear her out a little bit and make bathtime go smoother. |