puppy advise needed for new parents! (long)

We brought Bailey home 2 weekends ago. Last week my husband and I were able to work it out so neither of us were away a full day. We're continuing his crate training at home.

This Saturday we brought him to the vet for his last puppy vaccination (I think) for distemper. On Sunday, we had him spend half a day in his puppy pen - our alternative to when we both have full days in the city. We still have family come by and check on him and feed him, but this way he's not stuck in the crate all day.... Well, he doesn't like his playpen at all!

He was really agitated last night. In addition, this morning he was really worked up and then, when I put him in the pen, he was very upset. My BIL (who lives upstairs) checked on him several times and we don't know how, but he has figured out a way to get out of his pen (twice). I have the room blocked off to be safe, and he's fine in the room. He didn't destroy anything or make a mess, but all of his toys were in the pen and he was out of it. My BIL said that he was agitated either way. I came home to a very clingy puppy. He ate dinner, although not with his usual enthusiasm. A little later he threw most of it up.

So my question - after this long story - is - should I be worried? Is it possibly from the vaccine? Is it because this is the first day he didn't see either one of us the whole day? Is it because of the playpen? Any advise? Is this just normal puppy pains?

Thanks so much! We've never had a dog before and we're nervous fur-parents....

Message edited 3/10/2008 10:59:49 PM.

Re: puppy advise needed for new parents! (long)

The vaccine can definitely cause a reaction. He is also still adjusting to his new environment. I wouldn't worry unless it continues.

What kind of latch does the crate have? Our older dog used to be able to lift the latch with her nose and move it with her paw. We just bent the rod a little to make it harder to move and she hasn't gotten out since.

To make him like the crate more, you need to associate it with positive things like treats. One thing we did was put our puppies on a leash and lead them into the crate. Once in we gave them lots of praise. We repeated this a few times. Also make sure you keep him in their during times you are home as well . You do not want him to associate the crate with you leaving. Also do not make a big deal of you leaving. No long goodbyes.

I hope this helps. Crate training is the best thing we ever did with our dogs. They both love their crates now and go in without even being told.

Message edited 3/11/2008 7:10:02 AM.

Re: puppy advise needed for new parents! (long)

Thanks! He loves his crate, it's just his play pen that he isn't fond of. Although I think a lot of it was also the vaccine. He did MUCH better yesterday. Wasn't thrilled about the playpen, but wasn't as crazy agitated as Sunday/Monday.

I was just losing it! It really helps to hear from others too. We're so concerned that we're making mistakes. Can't wait for puppy kindergarten.

thanks again.

Re: puppy advise needed for new parents! (long)

Welcome I am glad you and your puppy are feeling better.