I would echo with harge said. I have a lab that I started in the water at close to 12 weeks. Started in the shallow area at the lake. He was a little reluctant, and I sat in 4" of water with a toy. Once he got chest deep, he took off swimming and 10 years later, he hasn't stopped swimming. I have also had to teach him where to get out of the lake. As he has gotten older, he has learned to use the stairs instead of jumping out of the water.

If you plan to have the pup go in an out of the boat, training there is important as well. I probably over use "load up", but it gets him into the bed of my truck, my wife's car, the boat, on the coach, or any other surface I point at. When they are on the boat, having the dog know "place" or "lay down" (meaning lay down and don't get up until your told) is good to have.

I've got a approx 1 yo Catahoula wev'e had for 7 weeks. 65 lbs and still growing so not exactly the same but sit and stay were accomplished with patience and treats. He still wants to get up on us with his front paws when we are sitting down . I know a lot of people don't like this method but water spray bottle has worked for that.

halfastros81 said:

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I've got a approx 1 yo Catahoula wev'e had for 7 weeks. 65 lbs and still growing so not exactly the same but sit and stay were accomplished with patience and treats. He still wants to get up on us with his front paws when we are sitting down . I know a lot of people don't like this method but water spray bottle has worked for that.

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I am a huge proponent of a "place" command to prevent this constant battle. When my dog is annoying me or in the way she has a bed inside and outside where when I say place she goes and is there until let off.

Good suggestion. I'm going to try it.

Not sure if it has already been mentioned....

But two things that have helped tremendously with my two golden retrievers when they were puppies.

While the puppy eats:

1. pull on the tail and ears a little bit. It gets them used being tugged at and messed with. That way they don't get defensive around their food when they are older and they get used to rough play a little bit, or at least get used to being pulled a bit

2. Make loud noises while the puppy eats. Banging pots, clapping, even cap guns if you have it. Helps them get used to sudden and loud noises. Less likely to be scared of thunder, storms, fireworks and gun shots when older

We brought little Roscoe home on Saturday. So far he's doing really great!

ReloadAg said:

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Bringing home a mini Goldendoodle in December (should be born this week). We have 2 daughters (10 and 12) and we haven't had a pet since they were babies so we're taking in all of the information we can online. Kids still don't know about it but we'll tell them after the puppy is born.

Any puppy tips and tricks from the OB?

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Teamdog.pet

Online Puppy training course. He gives you everything you need with various videos and provides a forum and way to contact for questions.