[tonkers]

We have a new puppy and while we are home most of the day to take her out often We don't know what to do about the evening!

How often should we take her out at night? She is 6 weeks old right now! What time should we take away her food and water? Should she get any at night? She is a very tiny Dashund and only weighs about 1-2 lbs. So please give us some information on how to keep her from having accidents while we are sleeping!

[simoneaugie]

It may sound mean, but food and water on a strict schedule really helps. That means, no free feeding or water. The food and water is available at certain times only. They may miss a feeding but quickly get the idea and do their eating and drinking on your schedule.

Puppies usually need to go about 15 minutes or less after eating or drinking. She may be able to hold it all night, or for several hours after she has eaten and been taken out. I would put her in a small (her size) crate when you are in bed. If the crate, or a box by your bed is small and cozy enough she will not want to mess it up and will wait as long as she can.

[linnealand]

Do you have a good puppy training book? I can't imagine raising a little pup without one. My favorite is the puppy whisperer by paul owens. I have a puppy too, and I got 6 books for the job. They're really, really, REALLY helpful for every step of the way.

Personally, I've kept water and food out for free feedings, and it has worked just fine. Water had to be available because we're in a climate with very hot summers and no air conditioning. We use a combination of wee wee pads and going outside, and I've been very happy with this system. Puppies usually don't have the physiological ability to "hold it" properly until about 4 months.