New Owner Questions on Thunder, Dental Care, Intoducing a Puppy with an Existing Dog

"We have been enjoying a beautiful fall here in Colorado, but have also had a fair share of lightning and thunderstorms the past couple of weeks. I was curious to know if TTs fear thunder as some breeds are prone to. Our retriever gets a bit anxious, but I have tried to condition her from a young age to its sound. She does prefer to get under my daughter's bed, if given the opportunity - as opposed to hysterically running around, like some dogs do.

Also, regarding dental care of TTs; do you have your TT dogs' teeth professionally cleaned annually, or do you brush their teeth? I have read some different stuff on this and was wondering. If the teeth are being cleaned professionally, is there some concern regarding being anesthetized annually? (My golden has not had her teeth cleaned yet, but will probably be due for that soon)"

Response

Re: Thunder Storms

We find they all react a little differently. Some bark at the noise. Mostly I don't notice any real difference unless it is a real booming type of storm.

Re: Teeth

We do the teeth ourselves. The only real buildup that the under 9 or 10's get is on the upper Canines (fangs) and the adjacent tooth on each side. I can just flick the tarter off with my fingernail in a second or two. We don't allow it to build up and therefor it is very easy to remove. Some get tarter much faster than others.

You could teach a young puppy to have his teeth brushed (and get used to it) if you wait until after the teething stage.We find it is hard to even look into a TT's mouth until after their second set of teeth have come in. This can be around 6-8 months before complete. By the way during this teething stage a great treat for them is an ice cube. Numbs the gums. Now all the older dogs run up to the refridgerator when we are getting ice for a soft drink, expecting a "treat" (nice cheap treat)!

Re: Introducing a New Puppy With an Existing Dog

Thanks for the detailed description of your Golden. Actually it doesn't sound like a typical Golden.... it sounds like you are describing a Tibetan Terrier!

Remember back to those puppy stages....are you sure you are ready for this again! The puppy stage to me is one of the most enjoyable ages, when they are learning, and experiencing new things for the first time. It can be trying at times, but their clown like antics, unfailing trust and love, and seemingly endless energy levels provide many smiles and head-shakes of amazement. The house will have to be 'new-puppy proofed'. Electrical chords, stuff to chew, plants, shoes etc. are all favourite targets, and it takes a while for them to understand what they can and can't do.

You may want to pay close attention to the introduction of a new puppy. If your dog is playful and lively (just like a TT puppy). I know a TT puppy would want to join right in the fun after getting used to his surroundings. They think they can fly, and you have to be careful that they limit running/slipping/wrestling on hard flooring surfaces until their bones and tendons are fully formed (around 1 year old). This might be a little harder to do with your existing guy if he is a playful type. Although TTs are gamers and very sturdy dogs, a small puppy can injure himself playing with a bigger dog (getting stepped on, playing for too long etc.). I wouldn't be to concerned, just monitor the situation.

TTs certainly go through the puppy/adolescent stage in every way. A consistent family wide approach to training (everyone taking the same approach, using the same terms, being consistent) will make a big difference. This includes, training to go outside, learning what 'No' means, and learning to have quiet times (holding, hugging, back rubs). They also need to have quiet time by themselves, and get used to crate training and settling down for the night.

Some puppies over do it, and don't know when to stop playing. In our case with many dogs I think it is like play heaven for many of these youngsters. We make sure that they don't push it too far (get over tired), and there are times where they need to be put in their crate for a 'rest'. Much of this varies of course with the personality of each individual, and you will know by instinct and experience what is best for your dog. They really are just like children.

Funny you should mention visitor greetings. TTs can't say hello to someone they know in a calm fashion. Most get very excited and stand up on their hind legs, do silly things, and generally make a big production out of this greeting. They do the same thing for you even if you were away in another part of the house for ten minutes. I think your Golden would enjoy a playmate/buddy. As long as the size differences at first are considered (rough play, running etc.).

I think it is important to give extra attention to the resident dog when a new puppy is introduced, so that the original dog does not get it's nose out of joint, or get jealous of the newcomer receiving all the attention.

Another thing you will need to be careful about with another dog in residence is vaccinations. Puppies usually don't get their last booster shots and rabies vaccination until 16 weeks old. They really shouldn't be around other dogs (especially unknown dogs) until a week or so after these shots. I would even pay attention to where the Golden goes and limit his exposure to other dogs for this period.

Some vets now are giving another booster shot at 20 weeks old because of the virulent strains of some canine viruses in parts of the USA and Canada. Your vet will be able to recommend an appropriate approach.