new mom has plenty of questions!

[ConantheBarbarian]

Hi! I am the proud new mom of a Bull Mastiff puppy, Conan! Yes, he is awsome. I'm new at this, so I have lots of questions. I keep hearing people mention Kong. Is it a treat? Where can I find it? Is it ok for a Bull Mastiff to have? And also, Conan is nine weeks old, when is a good time to start training him on a leash? What should we be looking when picking out a leash? Thanks in advance for any help!

[Nateshihtzu]

Kong is a toy in which you out treats like peanut butter in. All dogs can use them. Its a fun play toy and training tool. They make them in alot of different sizes. You can pick them up at the vet or your area pet store.

[GretaJack]

Start leash training right away. Conan is going to be a big dog so you need to teach him while he is still a puppy to not pull on a leash. The first leash training that I do with my pups, I don't even think they know the leash is on. I have a handful of dry kibble, let them see what I have and also taste it. Then I start to walk away with the leash in my other hand. They usually follow since they want a treat. As soon as they start to follow they get another kibble and another. This will teach him how to heal even before he knows what the heal command is. After while ease off the treats but continue to try to keep them at your side and have them watch you if possible. After you have master this in an area without distractions, then start from the beginning in a new area with something that might cause his attention to divert from you, neighbor kids playing next door, spouse wandering close by, other dogs/cats in the area. If you can keep his attention, wonderful. If he starts towards something else, a quick pop and release should get his attection back. The worse thing to do is let him pull at the end of a leash though since you will have no way of correcting him.

Best leash in my opinion is a flat leather. They soften with use and are easier to grip than nylon.

[ConantheBarbarian]

Thanks to Nate and again to GretaJack! Youre help is greatly appreciated. Conan thanks you too! I have been trying to post a pic of him, but I have been unsuccessful thus far. I will keep trying...I want everyone to see him, hes the cutest EVER! [img]graemlins/blush.gif[/img]

[Nateshihtzu]

Your more than welome! I hope I can see a picture. Good luck and God Bless!

[erdog3]

I'm still trying to post an update picture of Ellies puppies too, they have nearly all gone now, one day I will figure out how!!!lol