whines

Question
My poodle doesn't bark at all, but whines alot, when lefted alone, she's 4 months. I have a male poodle 3months and he barks at her, but she doesn,t bark back. Is this normal?

Answer
Dog have various personalities just as we do. So defining "normal" includes a lot of variances. At 4 months, she is still adjusting from being seperated from her litter and mother. Apparently she has not yet bonded to the other dog.  Without more detail I can't tell if the barking is a sign of jealously telling the new arrival to take a hike, or is a friendly bark leading to play or alsoa  gsign of loneliness.  The 3 month old dog is likely also dealing with the new environment, lack of litter mates and mother.

You didn't mention having a crate for either dog. Both dogs need a "den" where they are safe and undisturbed. Each needs to have their own territory. As the dogs socialize more they will often share their den to become a pack.

As pack leader, you are the surrogate mother and need to provide both with attention, a place to stay (bedding) and encourage play and socialization between the two. I would start with simple obedience or puppy training and when both are about 6 months old begin a regular obedience class.

In the mean while if they are not chewers you can put a warm water bottle in a blanket for them to hug, a puppy appropriate toy for teething, (which could also be a source of the whinning) and a good amount of attention without spoiling them with too many treats.

On your next visit to the vet for puppy shots have him check the teeth to see if the teething period is over or not. Dogs tend to swallow their baby teeth so its hard to tell unless you do a mouth check to see if new teeth are comming in. Don't forget heartworm treatment. The vet should also do a stool sample to check for worms and parasites, check for ear mites, etc.

Regards,
Henry Ruhwiedel
Westwind Kennels LLC