new puppy owner

[tam1]

Hi
I am just about to become a english springer spaniel puppy owner for the first time and need some advice> should i confine her to my utillity room (5ft by 3ft) with a baby gate across the door and let her into the kitchen when i am in there and can keep an eye on her.how much time should i spend playing with her as i dont want to fall into the trap of not being able to leave the room.How much sleep will she need (she is 8wks)so i dont overtire her.I know this probably sounds silly but i want to make sure i am doing the right thing as i know springers can be hard work as my friend has just got rid of her dog as he was becoming destructive when he was alone. thanks in advance

[erdog3]

I own dogs of the gun breed, but I'm sure you will get plenty of other advise. You are about to own a very active breed, they need plenty of exercise to keep them out of trouble, you will need pup toys to keep their minds active, or they will become bored and destructive.
Sleep times will vary, depending on activity, ie: more active, more sleep.
Yes it is a good thing for them to have their own area, it breaks separation anxiety before it even gets a foot in the door.
Hope that answers the quetions. So Far!!

[goombaya]

Good questions I wish all puppy owners thought as much in advance as you have.

to add to what ellierat mentioned..

Start forming a routine as early as possible.

You shouldnt have formal excersise with a pup .. ie extended walks etc etc. it should mostly be play, at the pups pace (and as your schedule dictates)... as it gets older and its structure develops than formal excersise is appropriate.

[tam1]

Hi thanks for the advice.Holly is now living with us and is making herself at home and we are having a great time getting to know each other(oh those puppy dog eyes!).She is learning to go outside for the toilet and i am ignoring any accidents on the floor.
Just one quick question should i get up at night to take her out if so how often or should i carry on with my husbands idea of putting paper down?

[lou3]

get up once and once only during the night, gradually make it earlier and earlier so eventually its just before your bedtime and she is going all through the night until you get up without being let out.
whatever you do dont go to her if she whines.
Really sensible idea to keep her in her own area at night etc. Sounds like you're gonna have a really well-adjusted dog.

Lou

[erdog3]

Nice to know you got your puppy, I bet she/he is beautiful, I have a litter of labs at the moment, and they eyes, yes they make you melt.
The piddling on the floor though, don't ignore it, that is your first part of housetraining, if you see your pup piddling, pick him up putting your hand under his tail and bum, (normally catches flow) and race.... outside. then if rest goes on grass or whatever, give praise. He won't be able to control his bladder till at least 12 or so weeks, but it helps them get the idea. also every time he drinks, or eats, put him outside straight away, (they can't hold on for long). You will be amazed how quickly your pup will learn to go to the door. As Lou suggested, you can go in once at night, but I always left it to the paper, sleep depravation can get to you. Also feed earlier in the evening, less mess at night!!!!