hello we are due to bring a staffie puppy home in a couple of weeks, also we are going on holiday abroad in the middle of August and would like to know whether 3-4 months is too young to board a dog at our local (well respected!) kennels for two weeks.   
Will she still remember us?  I am unsure, and feel bad and wonder whether we should wait and get another puppy on our  return,  any advice for a new owner would be greatly appreciated!  thanks, nina

deja vu?

hello yes it sure it i wasn't sure where to post this....am new to everything!

Hello!
Perhaps this year you should stay home and take care of the new member of your family. Or do what I did..... get a puppy after the summer and by next summer hhe/she will be old enough for you to leave her for a while. But at this point it will only be a big stress for the puppy. First few months in dog's life are crucial. It's going to be very hard for him to come to a new home anyway. In the first year you simply have to be with him most of the time!

Have a nice day!

Christina

Hi
Is it possible for someone you know & who the puppy would have become familiar with to come and stay in your home? Just an idea. It's the only way I can go on holiday, but then I am lucky to have my parents or step daugter who will come and stay. I did have to leave one of mine when she was 5 1/2 months because I was taken into hospital. My 3 children were still at home and their father came to stay - so she was in her own surroundings. I was away for a week and Ellie wouldn't eat. They have been fine when I have been on holiday but then they were older.
Helen

Why don't you ask the kennel to day board him for a day about a month before you go on holiday.  He should then know he isn't being left for good when you do go away and is familiar with his surroundings.

In my opinion it is too early. Is the breeder aware of this and couldnt she have the puppy back while you are away? That or a family member staying with the pup are the only options I would be happy with.

I would also suggest a family member or close trusted friend to come and stay at your place while your away.On the rare occasions we go away,my mum stays at my house to look after the dogs,if she wasnt around then we wouldnt go away as i couldnt leave my dogs in kennels,thats just me tho :)

IMO 3-4 mths. is far too young to be leaving your pup in a kennel,he will be just starting to get settled in to your home and then he will be upheaved again :(  I'm not sure how that would affect a young impressionable pup and i would also be worried about how he would be treated while at the kennel,what if one of the staff is having a grumpy day and they kick your dog or something equally as bad,it could scar him for life.

Cant you put your holiday off for a wee while?

Lara what did you mean about deja vu?

Hello thanks for all your replies, we are now waiting till we get back from holiday and then getting another   puppy, and will be holidaying with the dog next year!!  PS, deja vu is because I also posted this question under another heading.........thanks again everyone for your advice and i'll be sure  to be back once I get my dog and be needing some puppy advice!!