Exercise
The main growing time of a
puppy, from two to about ten months, is the most critical time of
both its mental and physical development. In a growing puppy too
much exercise can cause more problems than too little. When a
puppy is in the nest its time is filled with a natural routine of
eating, playing and sleeping so when the puppy is taken away from
its litter mates, as far as possible this routine must be
maintained. Providing your puppy with toys is part of the answer
but you should be prepared to spend time with him taking the
place of his siblings but don't let him tug at your clothes or
nibble your fingers. If he picks up something you don't want him
to have don't attempt 
to pull it out of his mouth but persuade
him to drop it by offering something more interesting (dog chew,
treat, etc.). Long walks on the lead must be avoided for young
puppies as should any activity that involves jumping (such as
climbing stairs or jumping out of cars unsupported) as damage
done at this age could develop into severe conditions such as
hip-dysplacia or osteochondritis. If a puppy tires then he must
be left in peace. If there are children in the house make sure
they know how important this is. A puppy can be chasing a ball
one minute and then be curled up asleep the next. If he starts to
sniff after being active a trip to the toilet area is called for.
If one works on the theory that a trip to this area is needed
immediately after playing, eating or sleeping then house-training
will be relatively easy.
