How-To Bathe Your Puppy

As the weather warms up, Teddy is coming back from the park muddier and muddier!

Usually baths are something I leave to the groomer (he goes monthly), but I can't let a muddy puppy live in my house!

When I first got Teddy, I had no idea how to bathe him.  He was so tiny, that I used a mixing bowl! You can check that out in this video.  He was so small and freezing, I swear he was shivering for hours afterwards.

one muddy pup in a tub

Now that he is bigger, I bathe him in the bathtub.  I tried the kitchen sink, but he just runs out, all over the counter making a huge mess.

Here is a step by step guide on how to bathe your puppy:

1. Fill a bathtub with warm water
2. Have a bowl ready beside you, for rinsing
3. Wet your puppy, either in the tub, or using your bowl
4. Lather them in your favorite shampoo.  We have been using Earthbath Eucalyptus and Pepperment since Teddy was a baby.  It was reccomended for his dry, itchy skin, and it stopped his itches right away.  We recently received an amazing shampoo from Aesop as a gift, and can't wait to try it when this bottle is finished!
5. Rinse using your bowl
6. Reward the puppy with a treat so they love bath time.

Sounds easy, right? Not so fast.

Puppies get confused by loud sounds, and Teddy freaked out the first time I tried to blow dry him.  I figured I would let the groomer do the blow outs, and let him dry naturally after towel drying.  The first bath he had, I made the mistake of leaving the bathroom door open, and he ran around like a maniac! He jumped on and off the couch, trying to dry himself off on my bed, the blinds, the carpet, ANYTHING.

I learned my lesson, and leave him confined to the bathroom until he dries off a bit.  I let him shake off, and cuddle him in a towel too.

After bath-time is over, you will finally notice your tub filled with mud - let the cleaning begin!

For more how-to's, tips and ideas, make sure you keep checking KeepingUpWithTheodor.blogspot.ca, and subscribe! Don't forget to stay in touch on my Instagram @KeepingUpWithTheodor for a regular dose of cute pictures.

New Puppy Checklist

Remember this little guy? It is hard to believe I brought him home almost a year ago!

My good friends are about to bring home their first puppy on April 8.  I made them a checklist of everything they need to buy and consider before he comes home.

I can't wait for Teddy to have a new best friend, and am so excited for my friends to embark on this journey!

The following are a list of things you will want to buy before he comes home:

1. Crate:  I chose one that is collapsible and foldable.  It makes travelling and staying over at places such as a cottage, much easier.  Teddy uses the  MidWest iCrate Folding Metal Dog Crate
2. Crate liner: This small bed comes in the same dimensions as the crate that you choose, and provides comfort to the little pup.  One warning though, don't put it in until he realizes his crate is his home and stops having accidents (or you will be washing it a lot).
3. Lots of Blankets:  Use these to line the crate, and also to let him know which spaces are his spaces.  I got a pile of blankets from the pet section at Dollarama, washed them often, especially in the beginning, and they have held up well!
4. Food and water bowls, and mat
5. Small bed
6. Toys: Get one of each type; pull rope, stuffed toys, kong, and Nylabone.  Teddy prefers the stuffed type, but a lot of dogs destroy them.  Make sure you don't leave him unattended with the toys in the beginning, just in case he rips them.  You don't want him choking!
7. Pee Pads: Most puppies come trained to pee on paper, and from there you train them to pee outside.  I trained teddy to wait by the door when he needs to pee, and left one by the door in the beginning in case he had an accident.  Teddy used them for a couple of weeks before I took them away.  These ones from Amazon are great value
8. Training Treats: Teddy loves freeze dried liver, specifically Benny Bullys.
9. Teething Toy: Teddy has a couple of these - This one is the cutest.  In the shape of a pig, you soak it in water, and then freeze it! The cool ice provides relief on his teething gums.
10. Food: Your breeder will tell you what he eats.
11. Collar:  I do not walk Teddy using his collar.  It is moreso a fashion statement, and a place to hang his ID tag, and Rabies Vaccination tag.
12. Leash: Dogs should walk on a 6ft leash.  What it looks like is up to you!  Retractable leashes are a big no, as you can lose control of the dog. Dont forget poop bags!
13. Odor Remover: He will pee a lot, and he will pee everywhere!! I really like the Woolite Pet Stain and Odor Remover
14. Harness: It is best for your dog's leash to be attached to a harness.  They teach them not to pull while they walk, and I would not want to walk my pup by something attached to his neck.  There are a variety of different harnesses, but these are the ones I like:
1. K9 Explorer by Coastal Pet Products - This is the one Teddy learned to walk with.  The arms slide through, and it clips on the back.  I like it because there is minimal fabric, which leads to less matting and a nicer coat.
2. Puppia Dog Soft Harness - Teddy has a nice camouflaged one.  I like the different patterns and colors that they come in.  It is made of a soft mesh material.  It slips over their head, then wraps and clips around the body.  I bought it purely because it is cute, but he uses it often, and walks nicely in it.
3. Buddy Belt - This harness is more expensive than the other 2.  It is made in Canada, of synthetic leather.  I have been considering getting one for Teddy.  It does the same work as the previous 2, at 3 times the cost!

In addition to these products, there are different services and arrangements you should start to consider before picking up your pup:

1. Vet: My vet is Dr. Vlad Stefanescu at the Yonge-Davenport Pet Hospital.  He has great hours and the nicest staff!  You need to take your pup to the vet within the first 48 hours of bringing them home.  He will check out his general health, and work with you on a vaccination schedule.
2. Insurance: Most insurance companies are a rip off.  The one I use, is actually not so bad, and I have already earned back my money's worth in emergency visits  (definitely not a good thing, but it shows its value).  I Pay $150 a month, and get back 80% of all visits and medication back, including regular scheduled visits, and vaccines.  There is a one time annual deductible of $100, versus most companies there is a deductible per ailment! I am on the highest plan at Petsecure, and highly recommend it!
3. Groomer: It really is a matter of preference, but I quite enjoy Dogee Spa on Avenue Road.  They keep Teddy all day, at no extra fee.
4. Trainer: Most experienced dog owners would agree that puppy school is a waste of time.  Investing that time and money into a good trainer is a much better option.  Troy Tappin at the Family Dog Learning Centre is an amazing trainer.  He basically trained me! I credit Teddy's excellent behavior to him.  Message me, and I will send you his number privately.
5. Dog Walking: Mila at Paw Theory, is Teddy's second favorite person (next to me).  As a baby, she visited him 3 times a day, took him out to go to the bathroom, fed him, and did some training.  As he grew up, he moved to 2 walks a day.  After he had all of his vaccines, he did 1 group walk per day, and 1 puppy visit, and now he does one big group walk per day.  Mila takes Teddy to a dog park or trail.  He loves it, and is completely exhausted for the rest of the day!

For more how-to's, tips and ideas, make sure you keep checking KeepingUpWithTheodor.blogspot.ca, and subscribe! Don't forget to stay in touch on my Instagram @KeepingUpWithTheodor for a regular dose of cute pictures.

We Came here to PAWTAY: A Puppy's 1st Birthday Party

Two Weeks ago we celebrated Teddy's first birthday! 

My little furry party ANIMAL was turning one, and I could not let the day pass without a fantastic celebration!

I invited most of his friends for a celebration at Teddy's palace.  We served salad and pizza for the humans, and a special dog cake by Trixie's Kitchen for the pups.  Teddy walked around proudly in his birthday crown, and could not get enough cake.

It was a fun celebration, and Teddy received tons of new toys and treats as gifts.  We could not be more thankful of our family and friends who came to party!

How to throw a birthday party for your pup:

1. Invite all of their friends: I used Paperless Post
2. Order a cake, or special treats for the pups: Wooftown has a great supply of specialty treats, and I ordered Teddy's delicious Trixie's Kitchen cake from them.  We got the smallest size, and there were still lots of leftovers.
3. Gather all of the supplies you need - I got mine from Party City:
• A special party hat for the birthday pup
• Party hats for the guests
• Plastic table cloths to protect your floor from doggies fighting over cake
• A few water bowls for the dogs
• Cutlery, plates, and cups for the humans
4. Order your favorite Pizza for the humans

Putting together Teddy's party was pretty easy, and it was a lot of fun.  How do you celebrate your dog's birthday?

For more how-to's, tips and ideas, make sure you keep checking KeepingUpWithTheodor.blogspot.ca, and subscribe! Don't forget to stay in touch on my Instagram @KeepingUpWithTheodor for a regular dose of cute pictures.

A Jewdles Guide to Holiday Gifting

Today's how-to responds to the challenging question: what is the perfect gift for a dog lover? Dog lovers spend a lot of time with their fluffy friends outside.  Gifts to keep them warm and cozy are always welcome, and they are even better when there is something for their dog too!

Teddy waiting patiently to open his gift

Keeping Nice and Warm

Indigo Mini Waffle Knit Hat

Roots Delanie Chunky Pom Pom Hat

Hudson's Bay Fox Fur Pom Pom Tuque

Roots Moosonee Glove Mitt

Indigo Mini Waffle Knit Mittens

        

Hudson's Bay 
'The Stripes' Mittens

Staying Cozy Inside

Hudson's Bay Polar Fleece Throw

Hudson's Bay Luxe Cotton Knit Throw

Indigo Luxe Cozy Throw

Satisfy Cravings

Baskits Au Chocolat

David's Tea 8 Nights of Tea

Sweet Flour Bake Shop Holiday Gourmet Cookie Box

Match Their Best Friends

Hudson's Bay
Dog Sweater with Hood

Hudson's Bay
Women's Canadian Hand Knit Sweater

Roots X Canada Pooch Hoodie

Roots Salt and Pepper Original Full Zip Hoodie

Charitable Gifts

There are numerous animal related local, national, and international charities.  Your charitable gift to any of them would brighten any dog lover's day.  Below are some of my favorites:

1. St. Johns Ambulance Therapy Dogs - Therapy dogs are used to boost the spirits of those who need them most.  They bring comfort to the sick and elderly, in hospitals and senior's centres.  They provide comfort to children, relieve stress of students during exam period, and comfort people going through hard times.
2. Toronto Humane Society - You can make a one time donation, or sponsor a kennel to ensure that animals receive the attention, love, and care they deserve.
3. T.E.A.M Dog Rescue - They provide a haven for abandoned dogs while they wait for their forever homes.

Every item was hand chosen by Teddy

Teddy will be staying with his dog walker over the holidays, so of course I had to get something special for her dog, Auggie! While at Homesense, Teddy spotted his beloved toy, Pizza.  He also chose a special stuffed puppy, and some treats. Teddy loves going to the store and picking out his own toys and treats.  He has been trying to find ways to steal Auggie's off the counter since we brought them home!

For more how-to's, tips and ideas, make sure you keep checking KeepingUpWithTheodor.blogspot.ca, and subscribe! Don't forget to stay in touch on my Instagram @KeepingUpWithTheodor for a regular dose of cute pictures. 

For Teddy's walker, Mila

Every item was hand chosen by Teddy

Teddy's message to Auggie, translated to English

Home for the Holidays? How to Travel with your Dog

I have received a few emails regarding Teddy's first flight, as seen on Instagram.  With the holidays coming up, people are working on their plans to visit family and friends, and don't want to leave their puppies behind!

A couple of months ago, I took Teddy with me on a short flight to visit my grandparents.  I did a ton of research ahead of time, planned what to bring, and still learned a lot along the way.

Please don't leave me behind!

Preparing for your first (or any flight) is just as important as the flight itself.  I will provide you with a list of things you should bring on board, and pack in your luggage, and then walk you through Teddy's experience.

Before You Book Your Ticket

Before I booked my ticket, I called my airline, Air Canada, and reviewed their pet policy with them. They only allow a certain number of pets in the cabin at any time, and they need to know (and charge you, in advance).  Right after you book your ticket, you need to get in touch with their reservations team and let them know that you plan on bringing a pet.  You need to tell them at this time the dimensions of your carrier, and the weight and breed of your pet.  Once this is done, you are booked and ready to go!  

You will not be able to check in online, as an agent needs to verify the information you provided at check-in.  They are supposed to weigh your pup in the carrier, and do a visual check to make sure they are comfortable in there, and that they have room to stand up and turn around.  

If you are travelling within Canada, you do not need any certificates from your vet, but the US and international destinations have different rules.  You should consult their customs offices before you go.

Choosing a Pet Carrier

Choosing a pet carrier for Teddy was a difficult decision.  They really range in price and quality, but I was looking for something that would double as a safe way to transport him in the car.  There is really only 1 pet carrier that serves this function, and is also crash-safety tested: The Sleepy Pod.  

Only here for the treats

There are a few different models of this carrier.  The one that I think would serve me better day-to-day, the Original Sleepy Pod, was not an option, as it is too big for the airplane.  I like it because it can stay buckled into the car, just like a child's car seat, and the top part zips off to turn it into a bed, when away from home.  They do make a miniature version, but Teddy is too big for it.

I Love Teddy's Sleepy Pod Air, and he doesn't hate it either.  He sleeps in it on long drives to the cottage, so was not too shocked when he went in at the airport.  I was sure to leave it open in the house for him to explore in the days leading up to the trip, and even hid a treat in there.  I could not find him the night before we left, and after looking under every chair, couch, and bed, found him snoozing in his Sleepy Pod.

Packing List

Your dog carrier is considered a piece of hand luggage, so you will lose the personal item you are used to.  It is important to have some key items accessible at all times, so, I recommend bringing on board a tote back or backpack, filled with essentials for you, and your puppy.

I packed the following on-board in Teddy's tote:

1. 2 Top Paw Travel Bowls from Petsmart - one for food, and one for water
• These come in a variety of sizes and colors
• They have a carabiner on them which is very  handy, as I kept them clipped onto Teddy's Sleepy Pod
• For use not only in transit, but at your destination as well
2. 1 Gulpy from Global Pet Foods
• It is a system, where a water bottle is essentially attached to a bowl.  You just squeeze the bottle, and water drips into the bowl part for your puppy to drink.
• This is great for when you are on the go.  I often bring it on long walks, but in the airport, when you can't really set up your water bowl and have your dog roam around, it is a great mechanism for them to just sit up and have something to drink.
3. Lots of treats - whatever they like
• Because Teddy is still unsure whether or not he actually likes his carrier, I like to reward him every time he goes in.
4. 1 Kong
• Along with bones, Kongs, filled with cheese or peanut butter, are always great for long periods of puppy distraction.  For this particular trip, I packed Teddy's Kong with peanut butter, and froze it overnight to make getting all of the peanut butter even more difficult.
• I gave him his Kong once we were in our seats on the plane and he started crying to come out.  It tied him over until takeoff, when he got distracted by all of the loud noises and vibrations.
5. Teddy's Favorite Toy- Pizza by Zippy Paws
• If you follow Teddy on Instagram, you will see that he likes to bring his pizza everywhere, and will not let anyone take it from him.  I couldn't think of anything more comforting to him on-board the flight.
6. Pee Pads - I tried to get Teddy to pee on one just before we boarded, but he does not actually know what to do with these, as he was never trained to use them.  He really just tilted his head to the side, thinking "wait, you want me to PEE INSIDE".
7. A few portions of food - You never know if your baggage will be lost, or your flight will be delayed.  I kept some food with me on board, just in case.
8. Leash and roll of poop bags

   

   Teddy's Gulpy and bowls clip right onto the SleepyPod

The items in Teddy's tote covered most of what we needed for our long weekend away, but, there are still some things that were needed in my suitcase:

1.  Teddy's Crate, and Crate Bed - Midwest Icrate
• One of the reasons why I chose Teddy's crate is because it is collapsible.  When it is folded up, it fits on the bottom of a medium sized suit case, and does not take up much space.  For car trips, it comes with a handle.
• Teddy is used to being crated when he is home alone.  He even stays in there when the door is open, and waits for me to tell him it OK for him to come out.
• We stayed with my aunt, and I did not feel comfortable with him roaming around the house when we went to dog-unfriendly places.  Most pet-friendly hotels still require pets to be contained when you are not with them in the room, so that, for example, cleaning staff can do their jobs.  The Icrate is perfect for travelling.
2. Pet blanket - I get mine at Dollarama
• Teddy thinks that everyone's couch is his couch, and even if he is allowed on other people's furniture, I like to protect it with one of his blankets.
3. Pet towel
• Messes happen, and sometimes it rains.  I wanted to be prepared with something to wipe Teddy down in case he got messy. If I was staying at a hotel, I would plan to use one of their towels, but, I wanted to be more prepared for my aunt's house!
4. More food - Just because

The Experience

I gave Teddy a bit of food and water right before we called the taxi, hoping that he would need to go to the bathroom right when we got to the airport, and then not again until arrival.  This was a success, and we did not have any accidents.  Yay!

Teddy in the Lounge

I researched the pet policies at Pearson Airport before heading out, and learned that there IS a dog relief area, it is just outside of security, versus inside of the terminal, which would actually be helpful.  According to their website, pets are not allowed outside of their carriers inside of the terminal, but, this would prove to be difficult, as I did not want Teddy confined for such a long period of time.

I carried him into the terminal for check in, and the agent did not ask to see him, or his carrier.  I took him out, and let him walk on his leash to security.  I put all of his stuff through the X-Ray, and walked through carrying him.  According to policy, the pets are supposed to go right back into their carriers, but no-one said anything to me, so I let him walk on his leash.

Teddy was very calm in the terminal, and people were stopping to pet him.  No one seemed to mind that he was not in his carrier.  

Teddy in the Terminal

I checked into the Maple Leaf Lounge, but Teddy was very restless in his carrier.  I gave him some dinner there while I ate, and then tried to sneak him on my lap.  They said he absolutely had to be inside of his carrier there, so decided to find somewhere else in the terminal to hang out.  

We found an empty gate, and I set up a pee pad for him in case he wanted to go.  We waited there until just before our flight was scheduled to board.  I tried to be discreet and hide Teddy under one of the chairs, but he decided lounging on the chair was more comfortable.

The airport in Winnipeg proved to be even more relaxed than Pearson. We were very delayed on the way home, and Teddy took the opportunity to make himself right at home.  I set up his food and water, he lounged in his Sleepy Pod, and ran around with some kids.

Teddy's Setup in the Winnipeg Airport

When it was time to board the plane, I encouraged Teddy to go back into his Sleepy Pod with some treats.  He gladly obliged, turned around a few times, and settled in.  He was totally fine until the engines of the plane started to make noises, and then he started crying.  I gave him his Kong, which kept him occupied for a little bit, but then the screaming started again just after take off.

It is normal for a dog to become distressed in a situation they have never been in before, especially when there are so many new sounds and feelings.  Teddy started panting as the plane was taking off, so I tried cooling him off by unzipping the carrier a little and feeding him water with his Gulpy.  It worked a bit.

Teddy was still upset after takeoff, so I asked the flight attendant for some ice cubes, and put them in one of his bowls.  I read online before the trip that chewing ice will both stop their panting, and help their ears.  Teddy seemed to really like the ice.

Air Canada's policy is that the pet needs to stay in their carrier for the duration of the flight, but, some flight attendants are a little more relaxed.  I brought Teddy's Sleepy Pod onto my lap and unzipped it a bit, letting his head poke out.  he was then relaxed and fell asleep on my shoulder.

On the flight home, Teddy was completely fine, with a little whimper every now and then.  I think he knew what was going on, so was less stressed out about it.  I know that his experience flying will get better each time we travel together.  His first flight was uncharted territory, with lots of new noises, so I understand why he was scared.

Good luck on your first flight with your puppy! Let me know how it goes, and if you learn any new tricks for getting them to stay calm and happy.

For more how-to's, tips and ideas, make sure you keep checking KeepingUpWithTheodor.blogspot.ca, and subscribe! Don't forget to stay in touch on my Instagram @KeepingUpWithTheodor for a regular dose of cute pictures. 

Happy Holidays!

Oy Teddy!

Teddy had a very active day yesterday.  He went outside 3 times, and even started walking down the hall of my condo by himself.  This is a HUGE step for my little baby, who, until now would only play inside my unit.

After our last play, I sat down to write my next blog post about his first bath, and I noticed he was acting strange.  He had been sleeping uninterrupted for 3 hours.  I tried to wake him up to have something to eat or drink, and he seemed sedated, and when I sat him up, he wobbled from side to side.  I rushed Teddy immediately to the Veterinary Emergency Clinic.

VEC is an amazing place, and I know this personally as their team of specialists treated my childhood dog Jazzmin, for various things.  She had a dermatologist there, Dr. Waisglass, who helped remove lipomas that are typical to senior Rhodesian Ridgebacks.  She also suffered from Thyroid cancer, and was treaed by an amazing team of internal surgeons, and oncologists, who helped her live beyond the life expectancy of her breed.  They also kept her very comfortable during her final days.

Bringing Teddy to VEC was very emotional for me, as it brought back memories of Jazzmin, but I knew that I was providing him with the best care he could possibly receive.  He was triaged immediately, and kept overnight with IV fluids to keep him hydrated.  Both Adam (who came with me, and helped me through these difficult moments) and myself, were appreciative of Dr. Murthy, Teddy's emergency vet, as he walked us through all of the scenarios, and explained how they arrived at a diagnosis.  He was sensitive to not put Teddy through unnecessary treatments as they would be hard on his tiny body, and also expensive.

We went home at around midnight, and were told that overnight, no news is good news, but we were encouraged that we could call at any time with questions about our precious pup.  At around 6:30 AM I received a call that Teddy was doing fine, and that I would be able to take him home later on in the morning.  He did not even need to stay to see the neuroligist, as his neorlogical symptoms had ended shortly after he was given fluids.

A few of the vet techs came out to say goodbye to Teddy.  Everyone loved his truly calm and loving demeanor.  We still are not sure of exactly what happened, and, although it did not come up on his blood panel, the Dr. Murthy suspects that he had somehow ingested a toxin (even the smallest amount, like a tiny lick, can hurt a puppy this small, with a little immune system).

We left VEC at around 11:30AM, with a perfect pup (embarrassed about his shaved arms), a $750 vet bill (much will be covered by Pet Secure), and many blessings.  Teddy has been spending the rest of the day playing, peeing and pooping (in his Pet Loo, on the lamp base, and on the wall... oy Teddy), and napping.  While we definitely had a big scare, I am proud to report that Teddy is in perfect health, and will not be back at the vet until his next vaccination with Dr. S.

For more how-to's, tips and ideas, make sure you keep checking KeepingUpWithTheodor.blogspot.ca, and subscribe! Don't forget to stay in touch on my Instagram @KeepingUpWithTheodor for a regular dose of cute pictures. 

Teddy's First Visit to the Vet and Other Adventures

In our contract, The Canadian Kennel Club mandates that Teddy needs to visit the Vet within 2 business days of bringing him home.  Fortunately, I found a lovely Veterinarian, who just opened a new practice, and is taking new puppies.  What is even more fortunate (for me), is that he is open from 9-4 on weekends.  I wish my own doctor had such a flexible schedule!

Being just 1.5 kilometers away, my mother and I decided to walk to the vet.  Teddy however, was NOT keen on walking outside.  The second I put him down on the cold concrete, he started trembling.  Then I realized, not only would this be Teddy’s first visit to the Vet, but it was also:

1. His first steps on concrete
2. His first time being outside in a city
3. His first time seeing cars, buses, and bikes pass by
4. His first time encountering dogs, other than the ones at the breeder
5. His first time meeting people outside of his home

Teddy handled it pretty well considering the world around him was changing.  I tried putting him down on the sidewalk a few times, but he would not walk.  Knowing that many dogs fear the vet, I wanted to make sure that he had a positive experience, so settled on carrying him the whole way there.

The Yonge-Davenport Pet Hospital is a warm and welcoming place.  Dr. Stefanescu and his staff welcomed us at the door, and could not believe how cute sweet Teddy really is.  There was a small greyhound there, and Teddy was not bothered by him at all.  Dr. Stefanescu fed Teddy a treat, and won him over instantly.

Teddy was not intimidated or afraid at all by his exam.  He sat nicely on the counter while Dr. Stefanescu checked his heartbeat, his knees, his weight, and everything else.  I mentioned that he keeps itching, so Dr. Stefanescu checked him out, and noted his dry skin.  He recommended using a moisturizing shampoo, which led to Teddy’s first bath (more to come on that).

Dr. Stefanescu tried to encourage Teddy to follow us down the hall, back to the front door, but no number of treats, or nice words would get him moving.  I booked his next round of shots, and reviewed insurance options.

After our visit was done, and we (unsuccessfully) tried walking Teddy on the street again, and we headed over to Wooftown, a local pet store whos staff are so nice and friendly.  I had previously ordered a pair (set?) of booties there, which turned out to be too big.  They helped us pick out the perfect harness (the smallest one they had), that I like because it pulls him from the chest, not from the neck like a collar, or from the shoulders like most harnesses.  I will review that in a separate post.

Wooftown also had a good selection of moisturizing shampoos, most of them made from naturally occurring ingredients.  While I am not typically overly concerned with making sure my products are free from things I can’t pronounce, I recognize that Teddy is constantly licking his skin, and might end up drinking a lot of the bath water. 

Wooftown helped me select the Tea Tree and Aloe Vera Shampoo from Earthbath Pet.  I liked it because I know personally how soothing Tea Tree and Aloe Vera are on dry, irritated skin.  It also contains Olive Oil as a moisturizer, and is not overly scented, like the lavender shampoo for example.  I will post separately about this shampoo, and our first bath, but this product is AMAZING! Teddy is no longer itching, his coat is SO soft and fluffy (yay olive oil), and his scent is too good to be true.

Teddy was exhausted after our walk (read: his lift) home, and snoozed for a good portion of the afternoon, even through many rounds of visitors.  Hindsight teaches me that I should have kept him playing, because he did not sleep that night. 

After putting Teddy in his crate, he started his super sad, howling cry, which to me sounds somewhere between a baby shrieking, and a bird.  Definitely not a puppy.  It is the most depressing noise in the world, and even though I know that I am supposed to just let him cry, I could not, so I took him out and played for a bit.  The issue is that he never wanted to go back in, so I ended up sleeping on the floor between his crate and Pet Loo.  Great night for him, horrible night for me.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get your puppy to sleep alone in the night?

For more how-to's, tips and ideas, make sure you keep checking KeepingUpWithTheodor.blogspot.ca, and subscribe! Don't forget to stay in touch on my Instagram @KeepingUpWithTheodor for a regular dose of cute pictures.