10-Step Handling Exercises

The 10-Step Handling Exercises, developed by Jeanette Forrey, aim to increase puppies’ touch tolerance and compliance, ensuring they are comfortable with various types of human handling. These exercises are typically introduced when puppies are around two to three weeks old and are performed daily to build trust and reduce aversion to touch.

We recommend our families to continue with these exercises after they take their puppies home.

The specific steps include:

1. Cover their eyes.

2. Paw Handling: Touch and hold each paw, including between the toes, to prepare them for future nail trimming and paw inspections. Tap their nails - helps desensitize for nail trimming/ cutting.

3. Ear Handling: Gently touch and inspect the inside and outside of the ears to familiarize the puppy with ear cleaning procedures. Rub and gently tug on their ears.

4. Mouth Handling: Open the puppy’s mouth gently to simulate teeth brushing and oral examinations.

5. Tail Handling: Lift and touch the tail to reduce sensitivity in this area. Gently tug and twist on their tail.

6. Belly Handling: Gently rub the belly in a circular motion to build comfort with being touched on the underside.

7. Back Handling: Run your hands along the back to accustom the puppy to being touched along the spine.

8. Gentle Restraint: Hold the puppy gently but securely to simulate veterinary examinations or grooming sessions.

9. Cradling: Hold the puppy on its back in a cradled position to build trust and comfort with vulnerable positions.

10. Touch their nose

These exercises should be performed in a careful and respectful manner, always observing the puppy’s comfort level and ensuring the experience is positive. Incorporating treats and praise can help reinforce positive associations with handling.

Benefits of Handling Exercises

These exercises improve a puppy's ability to manage various types of touch, handling, and sensations they will encounter throughout their lives. Regular practice helps to:

• Enhance Comfort: Puppies become more comfortable with being touched and handled in a variety of situations.

• Reduce Fear: Controlled exposure to handling reduces fear and anxiety during grooming, vet visits, and other necessary procedures.

• Promote Trust: Building trust between the puppy and the handler fosters a well-adjusted, confident dog.

Incorporating these 10-step handling exercises into a puppy's routine ensures they grow up to be emotionally resilient and well-mannered companions.

Essential Tips for House Training a Puppy

Potty training for puppies is a crucial aspect of early dog ownership, requiring patience and consistency. When it comes to frequency of potty breaks, it's important to remember that young puppies have small bladders and need to relieve themselves more often than adult dogs.

As a general rule, puppies can hold their bladder for about one hour for every month of age (e.g., a 3-month-old puppy may need to go outside every 3 hours). Here are some recommended break intervals:

1. Young Puppies (8-12 weeks): These puppies typically need to go outside every 1-2 hours. They may also need a potty break immediately after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up.

2. Older Puppies (3-6 months): As puppies grow, they can usually hold it for longer periods, typically every 3-4 hours. However, it’s still essential to establish a regular routine.

3. 6 Months and Up: Most puppies can gradually increase the time between potty breaks to about 4-6 hours as they mature.

• Establishing a consistent schedule, rewarding your puppy for doing their business outside, and being observant of their signals will aid in effective potty training. Always be patient, as accidents will happen, and it takes time for your puppy to learn. Follow these tips to set the groundwork for a well-trained and happy puppy!

Keep to a Schedule — Consistency is Key

• Create a regular routine for your puppy, including meal times, walks, and potty breaks. Consistency helps your pup understand what to expect, making training easier.

Designate a Potty Area

• Select a specific spot in your yard or nearby for your puppy to do their business. Consistency is key, so always take your pup to the same spot. Puppies have a small bladder, and at the beginning, they need to be taken out as often as 20-60 minutes.

Signal By Using Cue Words

• Choose specific cue words like “go potty” or “pee” to signal to your puppy it’s time to go. Be consistent in using these phrases to avoid confusion.

Positive Reinforcement — Treats and Praise

• Always praise your puppy and offer a treat after they successfully go in the designated potty area. Positive reinforcement makes the learning process quicker and more enjoyable for your pup.

Handling Oops Moments

• Accidents will happen. When they do, refrain from scolding. Instead, quietly clean up and continue to encourage good behavior.

Handling the Dark Hours

• Young pups might not make it through the night without a potty break. If needed, set an alarm for a quick midnight outing.

Feeding Time

• Feed your puppy at the same times every day. A consistent diet helps regulate their digestive system, making potty training more predictable.

Watch for Signs

• Keep an eye on your pup, especially during the early days. Look for signs that they need to go potty, like sniffing, circling, or whining — and take them outside immediately.

Crate Training — Safe Space and Routine

• A crate can be a helpful tool in house training. It provides your pup with a safe space and can be used to control their environment when you’re not around to supervise. Make sure to let them out for potty breaks and playtime regularly.

Puppy, Puppy, Puppy Recall

What is Puppy Recall?

Puppy recall is a training technique designed to ensure your puppy returns to you when called. This skill is essential for safety and effective management in various situations, whether during playtime in the park or exploring new environments.

Steps to Achieve a Reliable Recall:

1. Start Indoors: Begin in a distraction-free environment. Use a long leash if necessary to maintain control.

2. Choose a Cue Word: Pick a simple word or phrase, like "come" or "here.” Ensure it’s distinct and easy to understand.

3. Create Positive Associations: Whenever your puppy comes to you, reward them with treats, praise, or play. This positive reinforcement will help them associate the recall cue with something enjoyable.

4. Practice Frequently: Call your puppy several times during training sessions. Use a cheerful tone to encourage them to respond positively. Start with short distances and gradually increase as they improve.

5. Use Games: Incorporate recall into playtime. Games like hide-and-seek or calling them to you can make the experience fun and engaging for your puppy.

6. Slowly add Distractions: Once your puppy reliably comes to you indoors, start practicing outside where there are more distractions, gradually increasing difficulty.

7. Keep Sessions Short: Puppies have short attention spans. Keep training sessions brief but consistent, aiming for several short sessions each day.

8. Be Patient and Consistent: Consistency in your training method and patience are key. Every puppy learns at their own pace.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• If your puppy doesn’t respond, avoid repeating the recall cue excessively. Instead, return to a consistent and simple practice routine.

• If they ignore you, assess the environment and try again in a less distracting setting until they become more reliable.

Conclusion

Training your puppy to respond to recall is a fundamental part of responsible pet ownership. By following these steps and remaining consistent, you'll foster a strong bond with your puppy and enhance their safety during outings. Enjoy the journey of training together.

Grooming Tips

Introduction to Tools: Expose the puppy to grooming tools like brushes or nail clippers without using them, allowing the puppy to sniff and become familiar with these items. Doodles require specific grooming techniques. Here are some useful facts:

1. Regular Brushing is Essential

• Their coats can range from wavy to curly, making them prone to matting.

• Brush at least 3–4 times a week using a slicker brush to prevent tangles. Use a metal comb to finish the brushing and to ensure the coat is tangles-free.

2. Professional Grooming Schedule

• Doodles benefit from professional grooming every 6–8 weeks to maintain a healthy coat and proper shape.

3. Bathing Frequency

• Bathe every 4–6 weeks or as needed, using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. Overbathing can dry out their skin.

4. Coat Maintenance

• Regular trimming is necessary to keep their coat manageable, especially around the eyes, paws, and sanitary areas.

5. Ear Cleaning

• Check and clean their ears weekly, as their floppy ears can trap moisture, leading to infections.

6. Nail Trimming

• Trim nails every 3–4 weeks to prevent discomfort or mobility issues.

7. Teeth Cleaning

• Brush their teeth regularly or provide dental chews to maintain oral health. Offering natural dog chews, rawhide- free, such as bully sticks are great for maintaining good oral health.

8. Matting Prevention

• Use a detangling spray or conditioner during brushing sessions to reduce the chances of mats forming.

Crate Training

Crate training is an essential aspect of raising a well-behaved dog. It provides a safe space for your pet and helps establish a routine, making it easier for both the dog and the owner. Here are some reasons why crate training is important, along with practical tips:

Importance of Crate Training

1. Safety and Security: A crate provides a secure environment for your dog when you are unable to supervise them. This helps prevent accidents or destructive behavior.

2. House Training: Crates encourage dogs to hold it until they can be let outside, which aids in-house training and helps them learn where it is appropriate to relieve themselves.

3. Reducing Anxiety: A crate can serve as a safe haven for your dog, helping to reduce anxiety during stressful situations, such as fireworks or visits from strangers.

4. Travel Safety: Crate training familiarises your dog with being in a confined space, which can make travel easier and safer.

5. Boundary Setting: Dogs learn boundaries and can become more well-mannered when they have a designated space of their own.

Tips for Crate Training

1. Choose the Right Crate: Select a crate that is appropriately sized for your dog. They should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

2. Create a Positive Association: Introduce the crate slowly and make it inviting with comfortable bedding, toys, and treats. Allow your dog to explore it at their own pace. Serve the meals in front of the crate.

3. Start with Short Periods: Begin by placing your dog in the crate for short periods while you are home. Gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable.

4. Use Commands: Use a command like "kennel" or "crate" to signal to your dog when it's time to enter the crate. Consistency is key.

5. Never Use the Crate as Punishment: This may create fear or anxiety associated with the crate. Always make it a positive space.

6. Establish a Routine: Take your dog out for bathroom breaks regularly, and have a consistent feeding schedule to minimize accidents.

7. Monitor Their Comfort: Pay attention to your dog's behavior in the crate. If they seem distressed, reassess the training approach and consider gradual adjustments.

8. Be Patient: Crate training can take time, and each dog learns at their own pace. Positive reinforcement and patience are essential.

By understanding the benefits and following these tips, crate training can lead to a harmonious home environment for both you and your mini double doodle.

Mouthing Tips

Mouthing is a natural behavior in puppies, including mini double doodles. Here's how to manage this behavior effectively:

1. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

• Offer a variety of sturdy and safe chew toys. Choose toys that are specifically designed for teething and are durable.

2. Redirect Attention

• When your puppy begins to mouth, redirect their attention to a toy. This teaches them what is acceptable to chew on - chews (bully sticks), toys, etc.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

• When your puppy plays gently without mouthing, reward them with praise or treats. This reinforces the desired behavior.

4. Establish Boundaries

• Consistently communicate that mouthing is not acceptable. If your puppy mouths, calmly say "no" and walk away for a moment to signal the end of playtime.

5. Socialize with Other Dogs

• Allowing your puppy to play with other dogs can teach them appropriate bite inhibition. Older dogs often correct mouthing behaviors, providing your puppy with guidance.

6. Teach Basic Commands

• Commands like "sit," "stay," and "leave it" can help manage mouthing. Teaching these commands offers your puppy an alternative form of communication.

7. Remain Patient

• Remember that mouthing is a phase. With consistent training and time, your puppy will learn appropriate behaviors.

8. Consult a Professional

• If mouthing persists and becomes problematic, consider seeking advice from a professional dog trainer. They can provide tailored guidance based on your puppy's behavior.

Implementing these tips can help you manage mouthing while fostering a positive environment for your mini double doodle.

Socializing your Puppy

Tips on How to Socialize Your Puppy

1. Start Early: Begin socializing your puppy as soon as you bring them home, ideally before they reach 16 weeks. This is the critical period for socialization.

2. Introduce Various Environments: Expose your puppy to different settings, such as busy parks, quiet streets, and various surfaces (grass, gravel, wood). This helps them become comfortable in diverse situations.

3. Engage with Other Dogs: Arrange playdates with vaccinated, well-mannered dogs. Supervised interactions can help your puppy learn proper social cues and play behavior.

4. Meet New People: Encourage family and friends to interact with your puppy. Different voices, appearances, and movements will help your puppy become accustomed to human interaction.

5. Attend Puppy Classes: Enrol in puppy training classes to expose your dog to other puppies and experienced trainers. These classes provide structured socialization opportunities.

6. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your puppy with treats and praise when they exhibit calm behavior around new people, animals, and environments. This encourages positive associations.

7. Expose to Sounds: Introduce your puppy to various noises (traffic, fireworks, household appliances, doorbell) gradually. This can be done through recordings or real-life experiences while ensuring the puppy feels safe.

8. Visit Pet-Friendly Locations: Take your puppy on outings to pet stores, cafés with patio seating, and dog-friendly events. These scenarios provide positive experiences with public spaces.

9. Be Patient and Observant: Pay attention to your puppy’s body language. If they seem fearful or overwhelmed, give them space and time to adjust rather than forcing interactions.

10. Consistency is Key: Maintain a regular socialization schedule. Daily outings, even for short periods, can help reinforce positive experiences and build your puppy’s confidence.

11. Encourage Positive Associations with Objects: Introduce toys, grooming tools, and other common objects around the house and neighborhood slowly, allowing your puppy to explore them at their own pace.

By focusing on gradual exposure, positive reinforcement, and varied experiences, you will help your puppy grow into a well-adjusted and confident adult dog.

Physical Activity, Mental Stimulation, and Sleep

Physical Activity

Mini Goldendoodle puppies, like all puppies, require age-appropriate physical activity tailored to their size, energy level, and growing bodies:

How Much Exercise?

• Use the 5-minute rule per month of age per session as a guide.

• Example: A 2-month-old Mini Goldendoodle puppy needs 10 minutes of moderate exercise twice a day.

• Total daily exercise: 20-60 minutes, depending on the puppy’s energy level.

Types of Physical Activities

• Low-impact Play: Fetch, tug-of-war, or chasing soft toys.

• Short Walks: Walks on flat surfaces are ideal; avoid long or steep hikes.

• Gentle Indoor Games: Mini Goldendoodles are well-suited for indoor play.

• Avoid Overexertion

• While in the Puppy Stage, please avoid activities like jumping, running on hard surfaces, or prolonged exercise.

Mental Stimulation for Mini Goldendoodle Puppies

Mini Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and need daily mental stimulation to stay happy and engaged.

How Much?

• 15-30 minutes daily, divided into multiple short sessions (2-5 minutes each, especially for young puppies).

Enrichment Ideas

1. Training:

• Teach basic commands (sit, stay, down) and fun tricks (spin, paw).

• Use positive reinforcement with treats or praise.

2. Puzzle Toys:

• Food-dispensing toys or interactive puzzles can keep them busy.

• Rotate toys to maintain novelty.

3. Enrichment Activities:

• Snuffle mats for sniffing and foraging fun.

• Hide-and-seek with toys or treats.

4. Interactive Play:

• Play games like “find it” (hiding a treat under a cup).

5. Socialization:

• Expose them to new environments, people, and other dogs for mental engagement.

Sleep Recommendations for Mini Goldendoodle Puppies

Sleep is critical for your puppy’s growth and brain development:

1. Total Daily Sleep:

• Puppies sleep 18-20 hours a day.

• This includes nighttime sleep and daytime naps.

2. Nap Schedule:

• Provide frequent naps throughout the day, especially after play or meals.

• Puppies should sleep for 1-2 hours every few hours. Never wake up a sleeping puppy.

3. Creating a Sleep Routine:

• Establish a consistent bedtime in a quiet, cozy area.

• Use a crate or dog bed to create a den-like, secure space.

4. Overstimulation and Rest:

• Limit activity in the evening to help your puppy wind down.

• If your puppy is cranky, restless, or biting excessively, they may need more rest.

Daily Exercise Routine for a Mini Goldendoodle Puppy:

Here’s a sample schedule for balance:

• Morning: Short walk (10-15 minutes) + Training (5 minutes).

• Midday: Playtime + Nap (1-2 hours).

• Afternoon: Puzzle toy or sniffing game + Walk (10-15 minutes).

• Evening: Low-key play or training (5-10 minutes) + Relaxation.

Puppies and Children

When introducing puppies to children, several factors should be taken into consideration to ensure a positive experience for both the puppy and the child.

1. Friendly and Social: Mini Goldendoodles are outgoing and love being part of family activities. Their gentle temperament makes them patient with children.

2. Supervise Interactions: Always supervise interactions between your puppy and children, especially in the beginning. This helps to prevent any unintentional rough play or stress for both the child and the puppy.

3. Teach Gentle Handling: Educate children on how to gently approach and interact with the puppy. Teach them to avoid pulling on ears or tails and to respect the puppy’s space.

4. Establish Boundaries: Set clear rules about where the puppy is allowed and what behaviors are acceptable. This includes teaching children to avoid disturbing the puppy while it is eating or sleeping.

5. Encourage Gentle Play: Provide toys that are suitable for both the puppy and the child to engage in gentle play. This helps promote a bond while ensuring safety.

6. Involve Children in Care: Including children in the puppy’s care routine, such as feeding or grooming, can help teach responsibility and foster a strong relationship between them.

7. Monitor Puppy’s Comfort: Pay attention to signs that your puppy may be overwhelmed or stressed, and intervene if necessary. Puppies are still learning and need time to adjust to their new environment.

8. Educate on Routine: Puppies thrive on consistency. Involve your child in establishing a daily routine for feeding, walking, and playtime to help the puppy acclimate.

9. Energy Management: Puppies can get overly excited, so ensure your child plays calmly and avoids rough or chaotic games. Teach the children to not pick them up. Give the puppy plenty of downtime to nap and recharge

Building a harmonious relationship between puppies and children takes time and patience. By providing guidance and supervision, both can enjoy a wonderful companionship.

Puppies and other Dogs

Introducing a new doodle puppy to a household with existing dogs can be a rewarding experience for both the family and their pets. Here are some key considerations to ensure a smooth transition:

Preparation Before the Arrival

• Assess Compatibility: Evaluate the temperament of your current dogs. Consider their energy levels and social behavior. Some dogs may be more accepting of a new puppy than others.

• Create Separate Spaces: Designate areas for each dog initially. This allows your current dogs to have a safe space and reduces territorial disputes.

Initial Introduction

• Neutral Ground: Introduce the new puppy to your existing dogs in a neutral location, such as a nearby park or your backyard. This helps prevent territorial behavior.

• Leashed Meetings: Keep all dogs on leashes during the initial introductions. This allows you to maintain control and observe their interactions closely.

Socialization

• Supervise Interactions: Monitor playtime between the new puppy and your other dogs. Look for positive engagement and intervene if any tension arises.

• Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats and praise. This reinforces a positive association with the new puppy.

Gradual Integration

• Short Sessions: Initially, keep interactions short and gradually increase the time they spend together as they become more comfortable.

• Daily Routine: Establish a routine that includes time for all dogs, ensuring they feel included and secure.

Ongoing Support

• Training: Consider obedience training for the new puppy and refreshers for your existing dogs. Consistent training helps build a harmonious environment.

• Individual Attention: Make time for one-on-one sessions with each dog to ensure no one feels neglected during the adjustment period.

Introducing a doodle puppy into a multi-dog household requires patience and understanding. By following these steps, you can help create a loving and supportive environment for all dogs involved, ensuring a happy home for every member of the family.

Puppy Health

Our puppies are started on a deworming schedule at 2 weeks old and dewormed every 2 weeks until they go to their forever homes. Puppies receive their first round of immunizations before they turn 8 weeks and are also given a full veterinarian exam. They are fed high-quality puppy food and are groomed regularly while in our home. Our puppies come with a two-year genetic health guarantee. 

Puppies are raised to believe in themselves and be the best they can be through guiding emotional responses, meeting their innate needs in order, building confidence through intentional and purposeful curriculum and handling that aligns with their sensitive developmental benchmarks, and lastly evaluating each puppy prior to placement to ensure their voice is heard and they are honored and respected not only with their breeder but with their new human as well.

 We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our program, view our available puppies, and contact us with any questions. We are so happy you are here and can't wait to change your life with an Olive’s Doodle puppy!