The mommy doesn't want to keep her puppy in the kennel, or box, or anywhere... but on our blanket on the couch. We have tried to make her comfy in her bed but she insists on taking the puppy back to the couch. Is there any suggestions to keep her and the pup in her kennel? Or box? Thanks

RubyPitbull

Is the couch a new thing for her or has she always been allowed access to it? If she has always been allowed access to it, it is her favorite comfy spot and this is more of a training issue that can't be quickly corrected at the moment. At this point in time, there really isn't a quick fix outside of putting them in her kennel and closing/latching the door, or find a room that you would like her to stay in, put the box in there, and use a baby gate to keep them in that area. As long as you allow her free access to roam your house, she will always go back to the spot she prefers to be in. Which appears to be your couch.

bushg

put her in a room with a little foam kiddie couch or chair, it would not be so high for the puppy if it slips out. Most big box or toy stores carries them.

labman

RubyPitbull is right, no quick fix and I am not sure now is a good time to confront her about anything. Make sure you spread the blanket out enough they can lay on one side, and the puppy potty on the other. Same if you move them. For easy housebreaking, it is essential puppies have room to avoid laying in their filth.

Long term, it sounds like you are not giving her good leadership. The key to most behavior problems is approaching things using the dog's natural instincts. Dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog. Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones. You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class. A good obedience class or book is about you being top dog, not about rewarding standard commands with a treat. Start at Raising Your Dog with the Monks of New Skete For more on being top dog, see Establishing and Keeping Alpha Position, Letting your dog know you are the boss