Puppy Rules
This is part of a letter that was sent with a puppy that we shipped. It explains what to expect with a new Seagull JRT:
You should plan on taking this guy in to the vet to have a base line evaluation done.
WHATEVER your vet wants you to do with your pup, do! Do not wait to meet the vet in an emergency, go get a base line evaluation of your pup in a healthy state as soon as you can get an appointment, preferable yet this week.
Remember, everybody should be looking out for the welfare of this little guy. If you do not feel that your vet and his/her staff, first concern is for the happiness and welfare of YOUR dog, than find someone else to trust health care issues to.
Your puppy has been wormed every two weeks since two days of age and will need wormed again when you take him in for his shots. There are usually a series of three shots, 30 days apart, which will need to be given. These include: Parvo, Distemper, Corona, etc. (a seven way shot). They also will give a Rabies shot when it is due, as well as heart worm preventative. DO NOT let this puppy around other dogs or walked in areas where there are strange dogs until he has had all three shots. Parvo has some new strains going around and is very serious and often times result in death.
Remember, he is used to being with his litter mates and will need companionship to get over that stress. I would recommend putting an old tee shirt or some article of clothing in his crate so that he has a scent he could associate with you. He is going to sleep a lot and will be cranky if his nap is interrupted.
We feed free choice, where he can eat when he wants. We feed 27% protein puppy food until 1 year of age. A good quality puppy food should be all right. He has enclosed some food for the transition. He will need constant fresh water, free choice feed and access to his crate or some place that is his own where he can go when he wants to get away from everything.
With as many stairs and various heights that are in your house, you are going to have to really watch him that he does not fall. He will want to be where you are and will seek you out wherever you might be. Be careful. These dogs think they are `superbeings' and will try anything…
The best way to potty train him, is when he wakes from a nap, or is playing hard, he will need to be taken out side to use the restroom immediately. Also, if he has just eaten or drank a large quantity of water, take him outside. He will soon learn to associate the word "outside" with going and doing his duty. Positive reinforcement is VERY important at this point. You should be encouraging him with lots of "good puppy/dog" when he does his duty.
Unless you catch him within 1.3 seconds of his going to the bathroom, he disassociates himself with the "mess". (Yes, his 'evil twin', or something else did that, "not me!") Never rub his face in it, that is disgusting and unsanitary! Emphasize the positive...
The word "NO" is important. When he does something wrong correct him verbally with "NO" than distract him with another activity. Along those same lines, remember to be encouraging. Let him know when he has done something well. These dogs thrive on positive reinforcement.
Remember, he is a puppy and will chew on things left around. This means you have to keep things picked up if you do not want them destroyed! I would suggest a chew toy rope and a rawhide 'swizzle stick' chew. Also, I like the fuzzy critters, for the puppy/dog to snuggle with in the crate or just to have around. You don't need to go crazy buying toys, recycle things you have around the house that are suitable for a puppy to chew on or play with. Just remember not to get something that might have little eyes or attachments that might come off and become a choke hazard.
When he is a bit older, enroll him in a puppy obedience class. It will be good for him to socialize and for you to realize that your pup can take positive direction from another being. Same as seeking out a vet, look for someone who enjoys the Jack Russell breed and has a positive attitude towards them. Remember, you can interview the instructor to find out their true feelings. Don't grab the first warm body! Get recommendations from other dog people and ask for a list of references from the instructor.
Yes, it is like having another child around the house!!!!!
Probably the most important thing to remember is, spending quality time with him. These dogs THRIVE on human contact, they are NOT a toy that can be put away when you are bored. They love to be with you at all times. The more time you spend with your dog, the better dog he or she will be. I joke around that these dogs will get your attention one way or another. It is not always through positive actions that they get you to pay attention to them!
Good luck and call or email us if you have ANY questions……Remember we like updates and photos!