May 1st 2012 9:54 am
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It's my birthday today!!! I am turning 3!!!

As puppies grow, they are eager to explore the world on their own that when they come up against a barrier, whether it's the family's concern for their safety or their inability to be dependent, they may react with intense negativity. That's fueled, too, by their identity, which encourages them to test their limits and define their wants and desires. So when puppies age to 3, they may become frustrated, throw a tantrum, hence the label "the terrible three's."

The three T's to coping with my Terrible 3:

Teamwork: There is no I in the word TEAM. My family has learned, we (meaning, they) must work together. Instead of always telling me what to do (Zoe do this, Zoe do that, Zoe come here, Zoe ...), they have realized if I get yummy treat rewards or showering of complements I will do the task with no objections. Remember to complement even the simplest of accomplishments!

Taking Turns: We play a game: whoever doesn’t get to make the decision this time around, will have first picks next time. Instead of always getting my turn (during my Terrible 2: I get my way 10 out of 10 times), I have tricked my family into believing the score is now 9 out of 10 times.

Time-outs: I don't like this one!!! Supposedly there are standards of behaviors (good manners and patience) I must conform to ... if not I get put in time-out.

Engage, communicate, interact, and challenge your 4-legged family members on a daily bases!!!

Paws xx Licks xx,
Zoe