We had to put our 11-yr old bichon down last summer because of diabetes and we have bragged all year that we had no restraints! We missed Suzzy so much, and our youngest daughter is leaving for college next week so we decided to get a new puppy. My son has a Portugese Waterdog and we thought a Goldendoodle sounded like a good match for us. I've only had him 3 days and nights and believe it or not, this 10-week old pup has been sleeping in my king-sized bed with me because my husband's been working out of town. Now that I've found this forum, I see that I need to crate-train Charlie ASAP! We felt so sorry for him because the breeder was a retired hunter who keeps his dogs in kennels exclusively. We don't believe he had ever stepped paw on anything besides concrete or plastic because he seemed amazed at grass! We have a foldable crate he stays in when I leave the house, but my husband is due home in 2 nights so Charlie is going to try out the crate TONIGHT! Our bichon was our baby and slept with us or the kids, but Charlie must learn who's boss in order to be the dog we want him to be. His constant tugging at my clothes, trying to hang onto my leg, and shredding newspaper was cute the first day or two, but training must start now! I appreciate this eye-opening site and all of the advice and tips I can get. I have so much to learn and teach.
