Set Rules and Routines
Just like human babies, puppies do best on a routine. This keeps the fussing to a minimum and really helps with housetraining. Keep in mind that your pup has no sense of the days of the week. If you get up at 6 A.M. on Monday through Friday to give him a short walk and breakfast, don't expect him to sleep in until 8 A.M. on Saturday. Think of it this way — you have even more hours to enjoy your new companion!
To keep your pup from wandering and getting into trouble, without crating him, keep him on leash inside the house so he stays at your side. This is a good way for him to learn to look to you for guidance.
Along with a feeding and walking routine, you need to establish family limits for your pup. Everyone must agree on these things so the pup doesn't get confused. These rules include whether or not the pup is allowed on furniture and if so, which furniture. Is the pup allowed to sleep on a bed if he behaves properly, or is it best for all if he sleeps on his own soft bed next to yours?
Do remember that it might seem cute now for your little Saint Bernard pup to curl up on your lap to watch television, but that might not be so much fun when your pup is a 150-pound adult. Decide on house rules now, and make sure the whole family sticks to them!
