We've got our work cut out for us!

Puppies.  It's been a while since I've had a puppy.  Well, we fostered a couple.  But that was temporary and I protected myself by not letting my heart get too attached.  But this puppy, Chili, is here to stay.

She's about 5 months old.  We've had her for about 2 weeks now.  Sassy and Ginger are starting to get used to her.  Ginger is pretty accepting of new dogs in the house.  She's got a "the more the merrier" attitude about it.  Sassy, on the other hand, is much more picky about the dogs she allows to share her home.  She's never mean.  She just ignores them, sulks, and occasionally growls when they get too close to her toys or blanket.

So I realized today that I've got a lot of work ahead of me.  DUH.  Puppies are a lot of work.  She still needs work on house training.  She doesn't know her name yet.  She's getting the hang of the invisible fence but we are not to the point where I can let her out without a long lead.  She doesn't know "come" or "stay".  She's getting the hang of sit.  (with the help of lots of treats)

Do I need to take her to an obedience class?  I wonder.  I've done them before.  But the last one was for Ginger and she's going on 6 years old now.  So it's been awhile.  I can probably remember all the commands and how to teach them.  If not, there are always books and internet sites to consult.  But, the more relevant question may be "Do I need to go to a class in order to actually train her?"

I think maybe what I need to do it set up a training schedule.  Then do it.  That way Chili will learn her manners and I will save a bunch of money on dog training classes.  But I may need all of you, my bloggy friends, to check on my progress.  I always do a better job of doing things when I know someone is keeping an eye on me.  And I don't want Chili to pick up any of Ginger or Sassy's bad habits.

Bad habits?  What bad habits?

Thanks for stopping by today.  I hope everyone is having a lovely Wednesday!