Hi Everyone !
I recently adopted Charlie off Kijiji about 2 months ago. His previous owner could no longer care for him, and wanted nothing more than to make sure he went to a good home.
However I realized Charlie had a few issues, that the previous owner failed to properly explain. Nothing health wise, my vet's given him a clean bill of health, just had to get his shots done as he had only ever gotten his 8 week old shot (he's now 2) and add a pound or 2. He's very lean, but he's 13 lbs of solid muscle. He's already gained 1 1/2 lbs since I've got him.
His previous owner had 2 dogs, male and female, not fixed, and yep you guessed it, they had a litter of puppies. 3 were given to relatives, and they kept 2, Charlie and his sister (along with Mom and Dad)
He basically lived indoors his whole life, didn't get much exercise, was never socialized outside his family. He didn't seem to know anything. I've never owned a dog before, so it's been a fun adventure so far to say the least. He's basically a big suck, loves to give kisses, very gentle.
His main issues are separation anxiety, and freaking out (barking) on his leash at other dogs. I've done extensive research, educating myself as much as possible, and that's how I found yorkietalk ! I would like to say a big thank you to everyone here who posts, and shares their knowledge, it's been such a great help
I've never owned a dog before, so it's been a fun adventure so far to say the least. We've worked really hard with Charlie and his transformation is unbelievable !! He's gone from a shy dog, who had no exercise, to 3 walks a day, and running 3 miles (and I mean run) once a week ! People can't believe how this guy can run !! He now gets along great with the other dogs at work, a shih tzu and doberman, and is even starting to play with them ! He's a real terrier now, so stubborn when he wants to be, and such a con artist hahahaha.
So now that I know all about byb's and puppy mills, I assume this is the category that Charlie falls in. My biggest concern of course is his health. I've read enough on here to realize he may have medical issues down the road...but is there an age where once they get to, they're basically good for the long run ? I will be getting getting neutered very soon.
One of the things he hates is when I blow on his face. So when I walk him and he starts barking at another dog, I just blow on his face and he stops ! It seems to be the only thing that works, treats, toys don't snap him out of it. It's not mean is it ? I am currently reading Fiesty Fido - Help for the Leash - Reactive and plan on applying some of their techniques
Thanks to anyone willing to offer any advise !!