Hi,
This is the first time I have posted since owning my little treasure of a Viz, but have been reading with great interest. Bentley is 18 weeks on Tuesday 18th May and is growing fast. He is a beautiful dog and I am loving owning a Vizsla. My previous dog was a beautiful Black Lab, who was a pleasure to own, so he had big boots to fill, but is doing ok so far!
I have also heard of the 1minute for every week of their lives 2 - 3 times a day, but my Breeder was horrified at this, saying they would be climbing the walls, so be sensible and allow more gradually. The vets where I work are also ok with Bentley's exercise schedule, saying it is better he has a structured walk rather than going mad in the garden, running in all directions which is much more stressful on his soft bones and joints.
Currently we have 30 minutes in the morning which is half lead and woods. He then goes to the park with my husband at lunchtime for about 40mins, which is half and half again. I then take him down the woods after work for another 40 mins, which is mostly off lead. He generally walks calmly behind me or just in front of me and only goes mad when he plays with other dogs for a few minutes. He is great with his recall, coming to me each time.
He still wants to play when we get home but in a more sensible way as apposed to the mad thing he was before we were allowed out.
He sleeps through the night and has done since the first night and is also dry day and night. He started puppy classes at 8 weeks and it really shows in his behaviour. I am big on being pack leader and he recognises this so far! He is far from perfect but is a bundle of joy and we are all learning together. It helps having owned a dog before and being around animals all day at the vets. It gives you the basics to work with and you would be supprised at how many people get dogs without really thinking about it which is such a shame for all concerned. I read a post from Gunnr about nipping and using the closing of the muzzle, saying no teeth and this really has helped us. It has reduced his nipping by 80% in a week I would say so thanks for that.