Unraveling the Mystery: Why Do Puppies Sleep So Much?

 Ah, the joy of watching a puppy snooze away, seemingly for hours on end. But have you ever wondered why they sleep so much? Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of puppy nap time and early neonatal development.

The Importance of Sleep: Nap time isn't just a cute quirk of puppyhood; it's a critical aspect of their development. During sleep, puppies undergo vital processes like synaptic snipping, where unnecessary neural connections are pruned away, leaving behind a more efficient brain network. This process is essential for learning, memory, and adaptation to their environment.

Nap Time vs. Wake Time: While puppies may seem like they're sleeping the day away, their nap time is far from wasted. During sleep, their brains are hard at work, consolidating memories and processing information from their waking hours. In contrast, wake time is filled with exploration, play, and learning, all of which contribute to their overall development.

Milestones in Development: The opening of a puppy's eyes and ears marks a significant milestone in their development. As their senses become more acute, they become more attuned to the world around them, paving the way for further exploration and learning. It's during this time that their brains are particularly receptive to new experiences, making it an ideal time for socialization and training.

The Role of Nap Time in Training: As puppies grow, their nap time remains crucial for synaptic snipping, which has a profound effect on their ability to learn and retain new information. By ensuring they get adequate rest, you're setting them up for success in their training endeavors. So, the next time your puppy dozes off, rest assured that they're hard at work behind those closed eyes.

Conclusion: In the world of puppies, sleep isn't just for rest; it's a vital component of their development. From synaptic snipping to sensory development, nap time plays a crucial role in shaping the minds of our furry companions. So, the next time your puppy curls up for a snooze, take comfort in knowing that they're on the path to becoming a well-rounded, adaptable, and intelligent dog.

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

Introducing a New Puppy to Your Older Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide

 Are you considering adding a new furry friend to your family but worried about how your older dog will react? Introducing a new puppy to your older dog can be a smooth process with the right approach. Here's a comprehensive five-step action plan to help you navigate this exciting transition while ensuring harmony among your beloved pets.

Step 1: Take It Slowly

When introducing your new puppy to your older dog, it's essential to take things slowly. Start by allowing them to sniff each other's scents through a closed door or baby gate. Over several days, gradually increase their exposure to each other to familiarize them with their new pack mate.

It's important to remember that this can be a truly overwhelming experience for your new puppy. They may be reacting to a complete change by going into their "fight or flight" mode. Be patient and focus on building trust with your new pup. Remember, you're not seeing their real personality yet, and it may take some time for them to settle in.

Step 2: Respect Their Individual Spaces

Both dogs should have their own designated spaces where they can retreat to feel safe and secure. Whether it's a comfy bed, crate, or separate room, respecting their boundaries is key. This not only helps alleviate any sense of resource guarding from your older pup but also ensures your new addition feels comfortable in their new environment.

Remember, dogs are animals, and when they feel threatened, their natural instincts may kick in. Your job is to keep a cool head and try to understand what each dog may be feeling.

Step 3: Allow the Older Dog to Escape

During initial interactions, give your older dog the freedom to retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Don't force interaction or corner them into situations they're not ready for. Respect their signals and give them space when needed. Consider putting up gates in your home or sectioning off parts of your yard to provide your older dog with opportunities for alone time.

Step 4: Supervise All Interactions

Always supervise interactions between your new puppy and older dog, especially in the beginning. Watch for body language cues like stiff posture or raised hackles, indicating stress or tension. Be ready to intervene and redirect their focus positively if necessary.

Part of ensuring smooth introductions is being able to read these signals and knowing when to step in. Supervision is crucial for fostering a positive relationship between your furry companions.

Step 5: Neutral Territory Introduction

When it's time for their first meeting, choose a neutral location like a park or friend's backyard. Avoid introducing the new puppy in the older dog's territory, as this can trigger territorial behavior. Keep the atmosphere calm and relaxed to encourage positive associations.

Lastly, avoid confining one dog on a leash while the other is free to roam, as this can be intimidating and may lead to unwanted behaviors.

By following these steps, you can set the stage for a harmonious relationship between your new puppy and older dog. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key to a successful introduction. With time and proper management, your furry companions will become the best of friends, bringing endless joy and companionship to your home.

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

A Bomb Proof Pup

Training a puppy can sometimes be a BIG undertaking...and seem a little overwhelming at times, but I've got your back to make things a little easier and help you to train a dog to be consistent in all stages of life.

Are you ready for a HUGE clue on training levels:

There are 3 basic levels in training - 4 if you count actually teaching the trick/command - but these 3 levels will make any trick stick:

1. Duration

2. Distance

3. Distraction

If you can train a trick and then train these 3 levels...you pup will be fool-proof!!!

3 Levels Of Training

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

How NOT To Do This Wrong

 Redirecting is a tool that trainers use and teach to their students...

BUT

If your timing is wrong, you can end up actually reinforcing that bad behavior...

Instead of discouraging it!!!😱

So here is a crash coarse on how to do it right!!

Puppy Biting & Redirecting

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

Positively Most People Don't Know This!!!

Negative Reinforcement can get a bad wrap sometimes, because most people think that it involves things like....

Rubbing a dogs nose in his poop...

or

zapping your dog with an electrical pulse...

While training collars can come in handy when dealing with breaking a long standing bad habit, it is not totally what is meant by negative reinforcement.

Are you ready for a clue...

It has to do with space.

One way a dog communicates with another dog is by either taking away or giving space. You've probably noticed that when a dog is excited...it will come closer...and when a dog is scared...it will back away. These are forms of body language - and because dogs don't have a spoken language in the form of words, they use body language A LOT!

So one way you can train your dog is using the positive and negative space to send messages.😲

Here is a crash coarse on what I'm talking about:

Positive & Negative Reinforcement

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

Grooming Trick #1

What A Mess!!! 

Grooming a Doodle can be so time consuming...or expensive!

And if you pay for grooming every 6 weeks...How do you keep them looking fresh when we all know that those playful puppies love to run in the dirt?!

The Answer...

Your Blow Dryer!

Now I'm not talking about any ordinary blow dryer...

I'm talking about a commercial blow dryer.

I use mine 2-3x per week to blow the dirt out of my doggies.  

Why?

It cuts down on brushing time and it keeps them cleaner between groomings!

Here is an explanation of my #1 Grooming Trick:

Grooming Trick

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

Achhoooooo!

 Allergies to dogs can actually be pretty diverse!

Most people are allergic to the dander of the dog, or the skin that flakes off. This is a pretty mild allergy and can usually be soothed with medication. Dogs who are allergy friendly can really help with this condition because they have a low shedding gene that can reduce the amount of dander in your home because dander will sluff off every time a dog sheds...and since allergy friendly dogs shed a lot less...there is a lot less dander.

A WORD OF WARNING: buying a "hypoallergenic dog" does not necessarily mean that they will be allergy friendly...unless your breeder knows their specific shedding gene! Make sure to ask about this if you suffer from allergies...remember...not ALL doodles are created equal.

Other people ca be allergic to the urine and feces of the dog. This allergy is a little worse, but since most dogs are pretty clean, it is usually a manageable allergy.

The last group of people have it the worse...because they are allergic to the saliva of a dog.  This is a severe allergy and no medication can help because...how are you never going to get a dog to lick you?! These people can get welts and blisters from dog saliva, which are very painful.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news...

but this last group...

can probably never have a dog....(sigh...tears..)😢

The good news is that this allergy is VERY rare and there aren't many people who suffer.  

If you want to find out which allergy you have, go get tested by you doctor.

Here's a quick video explaining the whole thing:

Hypoallergenic Dogs

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

Awwww

 Kids and puppies are the most adorable duo!

BUT

They can also be soooo hard to train together.

Get some Tips on how to train those kids about what to do when puppies are just being puppies!

Kids & Puppies

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

Your Dog Is Aggressive!

 That's it!

You've been labeled...

Or at least your dog has.

If you have a dog who you think is aggressive...watch this...

It may not be what you think it is!

Aggressive vs. Reactive

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

So Inhumane!

 There are some people who think kenneling a dog is wrong...

Some of those people also have dogs who chew up A LOT of their things...😬

But kennel training is for more than just saving your hard earned stuff!

-It creates a safe place.

-It keeps your dog safe while you're away...like from electrocution by chewing on a cord....

-It helps them regulate their digestive system, making potty-training faster!

-It helps regulate a schedule...because a tired puppy is a naughty puppy.

-It gives them a place in your house that is ALL THEIRS!

-It helps ease separation anxiety! (You heard me!)

Watch this short video to understand why 

I COMPLETELY BELIVE IN KENNEL TRAINING!!!

Kennel Training

Don't forget to visit us at lakemountiandoodle.com to apply for your next puppy!

Don't Chew That!!!

 Did you know that you should actually be encouraging chewing?!

It's true, chewing is a behavior that helps to calm dogs down, so if you have a pet who gets anxiety in certain circumstances, you could actually encourage chewing as a calming behavior because it releases endorphins to help make you pup happy.

Here is a video of how to teach it:

Puppy Chewing

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Visit Our Website To See Upcoming Litters Here:

Lake Mountain Doodle

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

Lake Mountain Doodle on Facebook

Don't Touch Me!

 Dogs don't like to be hugged...did you know that?

Most dogs find it a dominant behavior to have something on their back, so they may not want you to hug them...

Watch this video to get a better idea of why your dog may not want to be touched in the way you want to touch them.

Dogs & Affection

***Don't forget to visit us at lakemountaindoodle.com to apply for our upcoming spring litters!***

OUCH!

 Puppy Biting can be so hard to get through! Especially if you have marks all over your hands or they have ruined your clothes!

Here are some quick tips to training this out. 

Puppy Biting

Don't forget to visit us at lakemountaindoodle.com to apply for your next Best Friend!

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram here:

Lake Mountain Doodle on Instagram

Apply for your Perfectly Socialized Puppy Here:

Amazing Puppy Application

Follow us on Facebook Here

https://m.facebook.com/lakemountaindoodle/

OH NO!!!

 Not again!!!

Are you constantly cleaning up accidents your puppy is leaving around the house?

Here are some things you may be doing wrong:

TOP 5 Potty Training Mistakes

And some tricks you might want to try:

Puppy Potty Training

***Don't forget to visit us at lakemountaindoodle.com to apply for our upcoming spring litters!***

What Is Socialization?

   WHAT. THE. HECK.

Why did my puppy just do that?!

 A lot of people think that socializing your dog means exposing them to a lot of different situations, sounds and new things.  While this is partly true, it is really only half of the story.

Watch a quick video here about what socialization means...or keep reading for "The Rest of The Story":

https://www.tiktok.com/@betterfurryfriend/video/7052815530935192837?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id7059826913627817477

  Socialization begins from the very first breath of life, when a puppy is exposed to a new environment.  Puppies are born underdeveloped, with no ability to see or hear, as an animal adaptation so the mother is able to continue to hunt and get food for her pups. This means that socializing a pup will take an extended period of time as the pup develops over the years.  

  A puppy's brain is like a human brain, going through developmental phases, so even if a dog is exposed to multiple things in a short amount of time, that does not mean the puppy will be able to process that information all at once.  

  Dog owners need to not only expose a puppy to multiple people, places, things and situations, but they need to be aware of the pups emotional state as they interact with those things, especially in a "fear imprinting period" as you may cause an emotional imprint during one of these critical phases.  

  The development of the puppy brain over the first two years of life is a critical period.  Although a dog can be taught new things after this period is over, the training required to achieve a desired effect takes longer and is more difficult to achieve, but not impossible.  The most critical thing you can teach your dog during the early period of their life is "how to learn".  A dog who knows how to learn is much easier to train then a dog who has not been taught to listen.

  While teaching and interacting with your pup, and as the pup enters more situations throughout their life, you may notice some undesirable behaviors, like rushing to the door when it is opened, barking at neighbors as they walk past or lunging at dogs on a walk.  These behaviors are not indicators that a puppy is "bad", it is an indicator that a puppy needs more training and socialization.

  Socialization not only affects how the dog reacts in these situations, but also how they may not be so enthused about the vacuum or the blender. Anytime your dog has a negative emotional response to something, the dog needs more experience and training in that situation.

  Lets imagine that you take your dog to the groomer, and they report they he/she was terrible! They bit the groomer, were wiggly and whiney.  This can get expensive and groomers charge more when a dog does this...so training at home for some grooming desensitization and trips to the groomers to add some positive associations is a great way to help the dog become more comfortable.

  So remember, if your dog displays any behavior that is undesirable, it is not an indicator that you have a "bad dog" or that you are a "bad dog owner",  it is merely an indicator that your pup needs a little more socialization to certain things.  Remember, baby steps and consistency, and if that seems to intimidating, get a trainer.  Great socialization and training now will ultimately help your puppy be amazing in the long run.  So watch for those negative emotional reactions and think of a way to break the socialization down into smaller steps your pup can handle to gain more confidence.

  For a great video on how to socialize your puppy and breaking it down into steps, click the link below.  Also, don't forget to go to lakemountaindoodle.com to apply for your perfect puppy through us!

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CN5tKwmioQq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Reliable Recall

 IT'S. THE. WORST.

You call your dog....and they won't come!

So how do you produce a Reliable Recall with your dog...because...it's important...maybe even lifesaving??!!

Watch these short videos to get some quick tips:

www.tiktok.com/@betterfurryfriend/video/6993144256445582598?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

https://www.tiktok.com/@betterfurryfriend/video/6995222582404386054?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

https://www.tiktok.com/@betterfurryfriend/video/7059820871267061039?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

Don't forget to visit lakemountaindoodle.com to see what puppies we have available at this time or to get on our waiting list!

When Accidents Happen

 There have been so many ways to deal with your dog having accidents.  Lets face it, they happen.  What we all need is a good plan to deal with them when they happen.

  The old school trainers would tell you to rub their nose in the mess, shame them, and send them to their crate. 

    Newer trainers would tell you to ignore the accident if you just found it or interrupt them if they are having one in front of you. Make sure that you keep your cool and remove them to the spot where you want them to relieve themselves - where they, presumably, would finish up and you will praise them lavishly.

   The latter is good advice as far as making sure to keep yourself calm.  You definitely do not want to make your pup afraid to relieve itself in front of you! That will just open up a whole can of worms you don't want to deal with. But, what if I told you there was a third option? An option you still have if you "find" and old accident!

   I call this technique the "Not Right Here!" technique.  

First, if you dog has an accident in front of you, I have found that interrupting them has been very ineffective. They usually finish up their business before you see them. So what do you do now? Well, you need to know a little about dog psychology. One thing you probably already know is that a dog does not want to be around it's own mess.  When they relieve themselves, they like to do it in, what they think, is a remote place; "I'm not really playing right here, so, this seems like a good place." or "Mom doesn't really go into her closet that often, so that's good, right?"

  Of course the last place we find accidents is in these remote, hidden places, and trainers have been telling us for years that we have to deal with this, clean it up good, and remain vigilant with your dog.  

  While cleaning is vital, you absolutely can bring this to your dog's attention with a clear message of "No!" if you find an old accident.

Here are the steps:

1. Bring them to the accident, on leash, and give them a firm, "No."  It is vital that you are not angry, but firm.  They need to know your displeasure, but not fear harm.2. Tether them to the spot for 15-20 minutes.  Make sure that the tether is not so tight that they are in an awkward position that will get painful after 20 minutes, but the leash also needs to be tight enough that they cannot walk away from their mess.  So just enough room to either sit or stand is perfect.  Walk away and leave them there while you do other things and don't forget to set a timer!

3. Come back when time is up. Return to your pet, calmly. Untether them from the spot. Take them outside to relieve themselves.  If they go, lavishly praise them.  If they don't, crate them and take them outside again in an hour.  

4. Remember to clean up the mess while they are in the crate.  Some great cleaning tips are:

    -Get as much of the mess out as possible.

    -Soak the spot for 20 minutes in your favorite pet spot cleaner.

    - Rinse and repeat (especially if it is carpet)!

You'll find that if you have a dog having frequent accidents, this technique will shorten the time their house training takes, when added with proper kennel training.  The Not Right Here! techniques also works with male (or female) dogs who have a bad habit or "Marking" things.  

Don't forget to check out our Instagram for a great discussion on the "Not Right Here!" technique. There are also tips on what to do if your dog is too big to be restrained by an ordinary chair. Check it out!

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CNVHLdfJLsz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Communication and Trust

 Building communication and trust is the first thing you need to focus on when getting a new puppy.  If your puppy does not trust you, you will not be able to train him/her to do anything with ease.  When an environment of trust and love is established, training your puppy becomes easy.  Everything from teaching them to sit, stay, come and house training is made easier when your first focus is building a relationship with positive emotions.  Nothing sends a puppy into their natural state of fight or flight quite like an angry outburst of emotion from an owner.  So trust me, if you want to make things easier for yourself, focus on the small stuff first: snuggling, belly rubs, and playing games. 

 These "small things" are how our puppies learn our personalities and they begin to open up more with theirs.  I have found that the first week on a new puppy in our home has been more of a honeymoon phase where the pup is learning about it's new surroundings and owners and learning how to keep the rules. This is also one reason setting clear rules from the beginning is very important! Individual personality only comes our once the puppy feels secure and begins to trust their surroundings.  If something traumatic has happened, it could be more like a month, but if the puppy comes from a well adjusted environment, this phase could last a few days or a week.

 So get down on your knees and play with those pups. Snuggle and watch your favorite Rom Com. Go in the backyard and play around. Enjoy your pup and wait for that fun personality to emerge.

Check out our link below for a great training on this topic!

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CND2NXOiqWc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

New Litters Coming

Are you ready for puppies again?? Me too!!! Lake Mountain Doodle is happy to announce our expected litter of mini-medium F1bb Labradoodles and F1 Schnoodles. These litters are expected to be born around Mid-October and will be going home in December. 

Angel and Mr. Darcy

The Labradoodles will have the most beautiful red coloring with some small white spotting😍 - we may even get some Parti puppies like last time. 🐶

Zara and Scotty

The Schnoodles will be mini sturgeon in size. Mom and dad are 8-9 lbs. each. 💋They will also have great coloring from cream-red with some possible white spotting. 

If you're interested being on our waiting list, please DM us on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/lake_mountain_doodle/

If you have questions about the moms and dads, look at our studs and dams pages where you can read descriptions on each..

Socialization!!!

Socialization is a critical part of helping your puppy 🐾 grow into the best adult ever. 🐶 Don’t be surprised to see some crazy behaviors 🤪 in the juvenile phase of life!  Remember, they are just kids 🤓 and need lots of positive reinforcement and love. 💕