Okay folks, I need some puppy help here

[lovetheparks]

Pumpkin also helps with the stools as well as chicken and rice. When my Tink was sick I just used the canned chicken and cooked up some white rice.

When you do switch his food, be sure to do it gradually so to avoid the same problems he's having now. Usually over a week's time is enough but you'll be able to tell how he's handling it.

For exercise, I suggest a soft sided (small) frisbee. My rat terriers love the frisbee and just a good 15 minutes is enough to wear them out but we have to buy the small ones that are soft - they are close to the same size as Mr. Scamp

Hang in there sounds like you are all doing great!

 

[Rajah]

I picked up some nutro puppy food last night and started him on that, and got him one of those soft frisbees as well.

However, I spent a good 30 minutes out back constantly throwing the ball and/or frisbee for him and he *still* wasn't worn out.

I wish I could bottle his energy... I could use some of it today!

 

[The Mystery Machine]

So you're saying that it's actually okay for him to be penned up for most of the day while we're at work and all night while he learns the rules? Don't give him free roam in the house until he's learned what is and isn't appropriate, start with short amounts of time of free roam?

Yep...dogs go thru a "teenager" phase. You have to get him past that and see how he does when he decides to continually challenge you.
I know it seems hard to do but honestly, less freedom in the beginning is very critical.
As a Cesar watcher you know that he stresses "rules, boundaries, & limitations". Very important to have it sink in.

As far as the loose stool, make sure he doesn't have worms.
I use straight cooked white rice. It really bulks it up.
You can also give canned pumpkin. Not a ton but a few tbsp added to the diet.

I just wanted to say that my dogs did not do well on the "Nutro" Puppy, it was too rich for them. The protein % is pretty high. Good for "working dogs" that get alot of exercise.
I have them on Natural Balance right now which is 23% protein, I think.

 

[Rajah]

Okay, thanks MM. That eases my guilt quite a bit. LOL! I guess it would be different if I were keeping him in is *crate* all day as opposed to the pen + crate, huh?

Thanks for the warning on the Nutro. I'll see how he does on it, and if he doesn't do well, I'll switch.

I've seen no sign of worms at all in the stool. It's clean, just soft.

 

[The Mystery Machine]

I've seen no sign of worms at all in the stool. It's clean, just soft.

You won't be able to see all of them. They are a couple of worms they have that stay in the intestine and will cause loose stool.
Has he been dewormed?

 

[Rajah]

Ahh, good point. And coccidia is another possibility.

I really have no idea. :/ One problem with picking up a pup from the streets.

 

[disneyaggie]

Ahh, good point. And coccidia is another possibility.

I really have no idea. :/ One problem with picking up a pup from the streets.

I have three rescue dogs that came from puppy mills, and yes, they each had health issues. They are now healthy, happy and free from any and all parasites. And I can assure you, Rajah, your little darling will be a loving and faithful little companion knowing you rescued him!