Any advice for keeping a puppy?

[trt]

I know this is in wrong topic but, more people read chatter-bank.

Ive been offered a 6 week old terrier cross from the RSPCA which was brought into them by a social worker after finding it seriously ill.
It needed an operation after foreign bodies were found in her stomach and is very small for its age, and wants/needs plenty of attention.

I have had dogs in the past but, not for 15 years, and ex my wife used to take care of them as I worked long hours, so any advice on bringing her up would be appreciated, eg, sleeping arrangements, food, toys etc.

I live on my own and retired so can give her all my time and attention,

[dotty.]

I think you should be straight with the RSPCA and negotiate some follow up after care as this is a very very vulnerable and young puppy

[yelenots]

Hi, We have just got a puppy - picked her up last week, she is 8wks old today! We bought a cage for her so she has her own space and she doesnt chew the furniture when we arent around! She has lots of soft squeeky toys and socks made into a 'pully'. We feed her 4 times a day! She cried the first few nights but has now settled in well! Good Luck!

[owdhamer]

Best of luck to both you,sounds as though you will need it, but at least you will be fully occupied.

[B00]

I'm baffled why the RSPCA passed on to you, a relative beginner dog wise, a pup so young and obviously stil in need of professional care?

[karenmac60]

Tips for night time - get a hot water bottle and put it under a blanket (filled with warm water, not hot), a big soft toy and a ticking clock. It gives the impression of a warm body and a heartbeat and can be comforting to them. Also, pinki's point about toilet training - you can now get puppy training pads which are absorbent on the upper side and waterproof on the bottom which makes the whole cleanup process a lot easier for you. I'd check with the RSPCA about feeding and stuff as she might have a specialist diet or a specific feeding pattern tailored to her needs. For when she is a little older, check if there are any dog training/awareness courses in your area.

[yelenots]

The puppy training mats dont work!! My pup just likes pulling them and ripping them to shreds.....then wees on the carpet!!!!

[trt]

Thanks for all the helpful advice.

Boo, Its not that I'm inexperienced its just that things can change over 15 years and new ideas/techniques come out just like they do when bringing up a baby.

[B00]

Still doesn't explain why the RSPCA handed over a puppy without giving you any advice whatsoever.

[trt]

B00,

I haven't collected it yet as said in my 1st post. I called them today and they have advised me on feeding, caring etc and going to see her tomorrow, the pup that is!

[B00]

Ahhh nice one, good luck with him or her :-)

[B00]

just noticed, you said her, good luck with her then.

[seadogg]

Sounds like you are ideal for the job and you will be rewarded in the years to come. A cage is great but if it is portable enough to go in a corner of your bedroom at night she will appreciate it.
We had a pup with a dodgy tummy and brought her up on John Burns kibble which is free of the nasties found in some dog foods. Keep us posted on her progress.