Thank you for your comments, especially about no carry my puppy. I am carrying her in the morning because I am afraid she will not hold her bladder and have an accident on the floor.
Feb 05, 2010 Rating
Smart but Stubborn by: Golden Retriever Magic
You are right, she does indeed seem smart--maybe a bit stubborn, but really smart. I am happy to see you are taking her to puppy class. She will learn. Sometimes when we have had an older dog for years, we forget how naughty and full of energy puppies can be.
That being said, you little one will need some rule-setting. She needs to know that it is not acceptable to you (and to Max!) that she is biting him. Try to use negative reinforcement (a resounding 'NO' or a loud noise whenever she bothers him). Also use positive reinforcement--in the instances when she is being good around Max, reward her with praise and maybe a treat.
You mentioned that you are "carrying" her outside--I would recommend highly against this. She may easily get in the habit to want to be carried always and this will get harder as each day she is gaining weight. Gently lead her outside with a leash and keep her on the leash until she completes her business. Reward with praise. The patience needed with a puppy can truly be maddening!!
If she truly has a physical problem with walking, then she needs to be checked out by a vet.
Your little one seems very full of life, just like puppies tend to be. She is still very young and I think (and hope!) she will come around in the near future.
