As a first time dog owner and first time yorkie mom, I have made my share of mistakes and have learned valuable lessons along the way: As soon as you drop something, pick it up in a nanosecond or it becomes a tasty furball snack. Don't bother spending money on expensive dog toys when bras and socks are so much more fun.
Don't leave your dog on your bed unattended for a while and don't ignore his barking, otherwise you will be washing the urine off of your comforter.
But the most important lesson I have learned is the golden rule of dog owning: NEGOTIATE WITH YOUR DOG ON GOOD TERMS!! Last week was the week from hell. Nikko had diarrhea for the whole week after I gave him a piece of apple, which he is not used to eating. (another lesson learned, table scraps are a no-no
). The vet told me to put him on a bland diet and prescribed some antibiotics for his stomach. He gave these to me in liquid form and I was instructed to administer it using the syringe directly in his mouth. I was not to mix it in with food or water. So here I am faced with the challenge of getting this dog to take this medicine for 7 days. The first time was a cinch because he didn't know what was coming. The second time he refused so I get hubby to help hold him down. The little guy fought tooth and nail, snarled and growled, snapped and barked. After squirting the whole thing on his beard and nearly losing a finger I gave up. What was I to do? I talked to him. Yes it sounds crazy but I sat down, reasoned with Nikko and made happy, fun voices. I made it a game and the syringe was a new exciting toy. Sure enough, he opened his mouth and drank his medicine like a good boy. I was so proud!! Which brings me to the point of this lenghty post (sorry guys
). If I were to offer one piece of advice to new dog owners everywhere it is this: Don't ever try to get your dog to do something by force. It doesn't work, its frustrating and can result in injuries to you and your dog. Reason with him or her on good terms and you may be surprised to see that your dog actually responds!!