Hi there,

I just got an 8 week old chocolate lab puppy. It seems like every time I turn around his eyes have produced more mucus. I've been handling the situation using q-tips or wash cloths to remove the gunk.

1) About eye goo:

First, why does he have constant eye gunk? Second, is it okay to remove it? Is there a particular method I should be using? Is there a way to get optimum puppy-cooperation with this? AND, is there a cure of sorts for this problem?

2) On sleeping:

I've had him for two days and all he's done (for the most part) is sleep. Should I be concerned about this? He eats, but only gingerly - and he is interested in treats, but rarely enough to actually do the thing I want him to do in order to recieve the treat. He has been drinking water.

3) On Training:

*What is the best way to train him to come, to sit, to come when he's called etc. ?

I am also trying to house train him right now - I caught him in the act of eliminating inside today and immediately scolded him. I put his nose briefly in the puddle on the carpet where he went (per the advice of the woman who sold him to me) ~ picked him up (he may have still be in the act) ~ carried him downstairs and outside. Once outside I immediately changed my demeanor and then praised him when he eliminated outside (which he did 3 times).

*So, I am wondering is it helpful/good to put his nose in the puddle or is it just mean? Also, should I have made him walk down the stairs instead of carrying him?

*What should my scolding be like? How long does it take for the dog to understand that he is being reprimanded?

4) On leaving him tomorrow:

I have to leave him for about 1-1.5 hours tomorrow morning and we have done no crate training ( I don't even own a crate yet) - I do have an extra bedroom that I could confine him in, however, we have done no work what so ever that would lead him to understand why he was shut in that room. What should I do?

5) On eating:

how much and how often should I feed him? Is there any sort of ritual I should do surrounding meal times?

Also, if he continues to have only a mild interest in dog treats, would it be terribly detrimental to use human foods? (for crate training him, etc.)

Thank you for your time,

Lauren K.

Optional Information:
Age: <1; Male; Breed: Chocolate Lab

Already Tried:
(various things - all described in email)/p>