Thank you everyone for the encouragement and advice. Yes, finding this site has been a HUGE relief! I ordered the heartbeat puppy and it will arrive tomorrow. I let her cry in the kitchen for about 40 minutes this morning while I got ready. She is now out cold. I am going to leave this afternoon for the first time and leave her here in her area. I have it exactly set up as everyone has suggested. The biggest concerns are: I live in an apartment and I fear the neighbors will complain because of the noise, and she bites the gate I have up with such tenacity that I'm afraid she is going to damage her little teeth. I've seen on here the plexiglass idea and that will be my next move today. But any other suggestions are welcome. I've always heard how smart these dogs are...I am hoping she will catch on and limit her barking when I leave.
IF and when that happens, you all will hear the cries of joy from Indiana!!
Another question for the experts: she did not eat for a day and a half and I got worried. I got her some chicken and she loved it. Tried mixing it with her food this morning and she refused to eat it but ate the regular chicken pieces up. Suggestions on food for her? I have IAMS smart puppy right now (hard and soft food both) |