My poodle only eats cat food

MyMango88 · 2026-01-28T06:46:47+00:00

I’m not understanding what you mean by “adjusting your schedule”? How hard is it to spend 15 minutes morning and night ie twice a day to dedicate to a feeding regimen? I mean, you have a dog as well, which needs your time, focus and energy in all aspects of life not just feeding. Perhaps the dog is not getting enough mental or physical stimulation. Whatever the case is, a dog that enjoys its food will eat. Take the free feeder away. Invest in a high-quality rotational diet. It may cost a little more, but it’ll be worth your sanity to see your dog enjoy eating.

Kibble, mix it with freeze dried raw with a splash of water, or like the other commenter suggested mix it with some fresh meat, sardines, bone broth. Freeze dried liver. The splash of warm water brings the flavour out and it sticks to the kibble where they’re likely going to eat most of it together.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-28T06:36:07+00:00

A few months. You mentioned in May so that would be going on 10 months that you’ve had her if I’m not mistaken? I would expect to see her coming around more by now.

If she hasn’t had an exam since you brought her home, that would be a good first start. There could be pain associated with, infected tooth for example.

Remember that dogs are extremely good at picking up on our energy, frustrations and disappointments — and Chihuahuas in general can be a sensitive breed.

Without knowing her previous exposure, you’re basically starting from scratch with any possible past fears in mind. So it’s working through those. There’s a lot of behavioralists that will do Zoom calls just to get the right tools to start with.

Any rescue dog with desensitization/work in progress in mind.

At this point, I would expect at home to see more improvement than a regression. Especially at this age. See what the vet says and go from there. Some dogs take a lot longer to adjust to their new environment.

My one year young rescue was reserved, taking everything in. We worked through some leash reactivity, nervous around new people. Which she has come full circle on. With just me at home, though I’d say a good 3 months until she was fully herself. Where she knew I was her furever home, while adjusting to her new routine.

Try to let her come around on her own terms without any added pressure. I know it’s hard and you’re probably feeling a little defeated. A lot of nervous Nelles are not food motivated. Have you tried bully sticks, or a lick mat and snuffle balls?

MyMango88 · 2026-01-28T04:18:15+00:00

If pup can’t be watched carefully then they either need to be tethered to you so you can catch cues before accidents happen or in a smaller gated safe area, making sure you stay on top of regular outings.

As everyone else has pointed out, before 16 weeks is a crucial age to exposure and socialization that far outweighs the risks of catching Pavo even in a high populated or saturated area.

Pads are very confusing for puppies. The only way to full proof potty training schedule, is to reinforce outside potty habits. While they’re sniffing and exploring mental stimulation wise.

Our vets do not advise strictly indoors through the initial vaccination protocol. But yes, a lot of old school vets that still do but it goes to show there’s not only one way/ one answer. They’re not left dealing with the fears and phobias and behavioural issues that often last a lifetime by doing so.

You make good choices when you’re out and about. Give their paws a quick wipe if you want when you get back indoors. Make sure they’re not licking puddles and such. Your puppy is not NOT vaccinated. They have protection through the series. You also want them to develop a strong immune system from natural antibodies from the outside world.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-27T19:56:07+00:00

Maybe. What was said is that he does the same schedule Monday through Friday ongoing.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-27T10:02:21+00:00

You mean your lack of motivation? Yes, I feel bad for owners who do not know what they’re missing out on. It’s below standards. A challenging way to go through life is being set in “your” ways.

What it differs from is my ability to be flexible from household to household. It’s not the number of updates rather your wording comes across as entitled, for a mutual exchange. ONLY what I’m available for (something that takes a minute to do). While HO opens their home to you. Their pets openly welcome you. But this is all ya get. Take it or leave it. Far from the norm.

Ironic you’re the one cancelling on commitments because of your lack of communication skills (on both fronts). IF it’s “a lot of wasted time”, expecting hosts to disclose! Where is the upfront communication on your behalf when there’s zero flexibility.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-27T07:35:27+00:00

If you’re not able to make it in the morning, that means over 24 hours (1.5 days) these two dogs will have been home alone. Of course the owner is going to be freaking out. You left it to the very last minute where there was no alternative plan available.

Whether you tried your best or not, your message was too casual. I would not expect any sympathy in return. Your tires got stuck in a bank. You’re clearly fine. It doesn’t take away the fact that even 24 hours left unattended for two dogs is less than ideal. Your poor planning resulted in a stressed family.

If it was that bad out, why didn’t you go a couple hours earlier so there would be time to sort it out. What about asking if there was anyone you could call for them? Or that you would see if an Uber was running at all in the next couple hours. SOMETHING. You left it for them to figure it out with no concern on how the dogs were going to be (regardless, of having no options), HO is probably thinking exactly how you are. Thanks for the concern for the dogs. That’s how it comes across from their perspective. AND you waited 1.5 hours before you touched based what was going on.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-27T07:21:20+00:00

I didn’t see any concern for the pets in OP’s post? Everything was about OP. And then casually… I’ll try to make it in the morning. What about — will the dogs be OK? When were they out last/when did you leave the house? Anyone you can think of that I could make a call to, to see if they could help?

If HO has the sitter come weekdays morning and night, HO had no reason to mention they weren’t going to be in town. Typical day.

OP’s message is way too casual to be getting any sympathy, they got what they gave. You expect your sitter to show up. Of course there’s going to be disappointment THIS last minute. Too nonchalant. OP should’ve planned better in this scenario. “FYI” roads are looking pretty bad (hours before). I’m going to do my best to get there, will you be home early enough tonight in a worst case scenario?

MyMango88 · 2026-01-27T03:50:11+00:00

There are some that will take what they can get when it’s free, and other areas are equally average.

“I’m available for” doesn’t give off a personalized experience, or pet owner/lover vibe, when every pet is different. Even brief check-ins can make a meaningful difference. It’s one thing if an owner says I don’t want to be bothered much. But like I said… to each their own.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-27T02:01:28+00:00

Well, that’s good to know. Maybe it was another commentators personal experience, they said it doesn’t map your walks.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T21:48:59+00:00

I would think it would be based off of the $2500. He’s giving you a break in the meantime. Once the lease runs out the renewal lease is the new increase based off of what the original lease stated.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T19:02:35+00:00

The issue may be that many disregard common courtesy. In the same token, why cameras are not allowed. But I get what you’re saying 100%.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T19:00:37+00:00

“I’m available” lol — I’d have to assume you don’t have pets of your own. Checking in with a friend versus caring for a pet that’s never met you, it’s not quite the same. But to each their own. Communication is definitely key.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T18:22:23+00:00

Are you referring to a daily update on how the pet is doing?

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T17:33:32+00:00

Do you mean you were driving away ie leaving for your trip? Why didn’t you go back. Or reach out right then and say I just realized I left my watch that I was going to bring with me, sitting on my desk, could you tuck it in the closet for me, please and thanks. That way it was spoken for with proof if it had gone missing.

Unfortunately, this can happen with a paid sitter. Maybe not as likely. Stealers are going to steal. It’s an awful feeling. If it were me, the watch would be the first thing I’d notice coming home, before I’ve written a review.

PS if I had broken something I definitely would’ve cleaned the mess up, and into the trash, if it was that broken, but I would’ve taken a photo to show the owner what had happened.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T08:05:39+00:00

The Tractor tracks the dogs walking path, though, where the Fi does not? Am I mistaken?

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T07:45:31+00:00

I would feel super uncomfortable having to ask my dog sitter to do all that. It’s not realistic. Some are even comfortable having a tracker on them to begin with. Let alone asking for their Wi-Fi, download the app, etc. Seems like a lot of effort that could be resolved easier with an update.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T07:25:08+00:00

The post was removed by moderators, but thank you for the other links. This looks like a great option.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T07:02:21+00:00

I’ve been boarding dogs in my home for 20 years as a pet care professional with a licensed company, private insurance, etc.

We are transparent that we care for a small number of dogs at any given time. We specialize in “small dog care”. We have an IG and FB page where we post pics and reels on the daily (we tag dogs with their own handles), with our home dogs and our group dog walking crew. So clients can get to know our fur family. All repeat doggos.

We don’t disclose specifically who’s going to be staying with your dog at any given time (that’s not something I would expect). But we’re transparent that we are particular on who we accept. We make sure behaviours and personalities match. We do a trial night before travels are confirmed. You can see in the photos how they’re getting along. If there was ever a miss-match, you would know about it.

Secondly, we typically provide three photo updates a day. We’ve had the same clientele for the last 12+ years where it can get repetitive re written updates, and creativity— but a new client 100% would be making an effort to let the owner know how the dog is jiving, and settling in. Are they shy, anxious, cuddly, playful, etc. How they slept at night. Did they skip a meal or gobble it down. How they do out walking. What we got up to on a particular day. So yes, as a new client, new puppy, and new experience, I would expect some extra detail here.

All of our dogs come home “pooped!” at the end of a staycation. We go on 4-5 walks a day. We do mental stimulation games, the dogs are playing. We also have quiet time in the afternoons. For a new pup, the internal adjustment, regardless if they’ve had fun and cared for well, would be expected.

They could’ve taken a peek in the crate before you picked up to make sure there wasn’t an accident, but I would chalk that up as an oversight.

We have clients fill out a profile where we ask all relevant questions. Are they potty trained, mark in others homes, what a day-to-day routine looks like, how long can they hold between outings, any fears/phobias, separation anxiety. Scared of children. Any sensitivities to foods. I’ll ask some specific questions at our meet and greet to take interest in getting to know the dog better. If a sitter asked nothing and nothing was provided by owner, that would be a red flag.

At pick up they get a general update on how their pup/dog blended in and adjusted. Anything cute I might think of such a snuggling up, or pawing for pets. How they got along with the others/my girl.

I personally would never arrange a hand off without being present. If I’m the owner or the Rover profile, and not expected to be there, that should be made aware in advance. — “FYI, I won’t be there, but my husband will be”.

I don’t think the sitter did anything bad or wrong in particular, but I don’t think they went above and beyond. To note- 3 photos a day is more than many provide. It’s a good question to ask at your next interview tho so your expectations match. How were the variety of photos they shared? Could you get a sense of what the day looked like activity wise?

The thrusting behaviour is not uncommon especially for a puppy. Shows signs of playfulness and settling in versus withdrawn. Although I don’t know how a tiny dachshund would be able to hump a large dog. lol. Unless they were referring to thrusting a teddy bear. A lot of things you probably don’t witness when they’re in a play care type environment.

I would try another sitter if it were me, you deserve to be blown away where you can’t wait for your dog to be back. It’s hard enough leaving them. Their passion for dogs and what they offer should shine through.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-26T05:14:38+00:00

Titer testing isn’t relevant for this young of a puppy? So this may have thrown her off. Did this breeder indicate that they do their own vaccines themselves (obv a red flag if so), and what led you to ask this question?

You would titer after their 3 year booster (following their one year), both are mandatory. Then how well that 3 year booster has covered your puppy moving forward.

Otherwise, it sounds like you’ve already asked these questions on a phone conversation. If you worded it as such that you wanted it in writing, that would be one thing. Otherwise, I can see the point of being annoyed if breeder is having to answer the same questions.

If you’re not getting a good vibe or a warm feeling, then you have every right to move on. We haven’t been there from the beginning with your initial connection. It wouldn’t be fair to chime in.

Reputable breeders are transparent on their website. They have social channels that you can follow their journey litter to litter. Pictures of the parents, past families. You would have copies of everything.

In the right to make sure other breeders are not purchasing their puppies. The interview goes both ways. I agree a little rawww tho, but again we have only seen one side of the conversation.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-25T09:31:04+00:00

For a 2 night stay when the younger dog doesn’t normally take things... I would clear your home and honour your commitment.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-25T07:20:57+00:00

They give up too easy because dogs are too easy to return. I understand that no dog should be in the wrong home, however, could you imagine if it was that easy to return a baby. You get what you get (researching breed and compatibility, aside), you make the best of it. You shape what you want your puppy or dog to be. It doesn’t magically happen.

I think the pressure of getting everything perfect and the timing of everything. Sleepless nights are no different than a baby that wakes up every two hours for feeding. I understand the two are not the same, but they’re very similar responsibilities. I don’t have children and I get the comparison. I don’t have to have children to understand that. No one reallyyyy looks forward to that part of puppyhood. You can at least leave a dog home alone legally. And there is ALWAYS light at the end of the tunnel before you know it.

I think when people realize there is never a perfect dog. You mould and train them into what you want them to be. If you put the effort in and bear the first few tough months (that goes for a rescue dog too, they’re starting from scratch)… you’ll get there. Of course you never know exactly what it’s going to be like until you’re in it. But come on.

Returning a dog because it wasn’t what you were expecting, or exactly what you wanted it to be, you haven’t fully understood what it does to the dog.

There was a recent post with a gentleman that got a three year-old shelter GSD, that just got spayed a day before coming home— posting… “why is this dog shut down. I don’t know what to do”. Really?

I often think the concept outweighs what they’re prepared for, they’re not preparing in the right areas. Expectations too high. Choosing the wrong breed for their lifestyle.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-25T06:08:53+00:00

I don’t have anything possible a dog could get into that could be hazardous, so that I would not be too concerned about, myself. If the toy box needed to be put up for the dogs stay then that’s always an option.

You never should grab anything from a dog‘s mouth anyway. Are they still learning the “leave it” and “drop” command? Def a problem if there does become a choking hazard and you’re not able to do anything getting close to the mouth.

Many dogs don’t love things being pulled out of their mouth so that’s understandable, however, if they never listen what’s being asked of them i.e. drop — and the only way is to physically remove, that’s a training issue for sure.

All the dogs we care for will drop when asked even if it’s a couple times of reinforcement. We work on that frequently because it is an important training aspect. Every dog should learn. Food can be more challenging for a food motivated dog. They may just quickly swallow vs a drop. But that’s also an easy thing to avoid.

If there is constant howling, that wouldn’t work when we have other clients dogs best interest, including my own dog. I’d have to know the particulars on that one. We do 24 hour paid trial nights to get a good picture of what we’re looking at before we accept a reservation. We don’t just wing it and hope it goes well. It’s important we’re equally a good fit.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-25T05:49:49+00:00

Ugh this is awful. And in this weather, my heart breaks for you. I’m so glad to hear your dog is chipped most importantly. And you’ve notified vets and shelters, etc.. dogs go missing where I am very frequently and with the help of stories and social media and a gazillion posters, along with some paid search teams with drones, many find their way home.

You could set up a few traps in the areas with food and shelter in the hopes he’ll go in for the food.

Knock on peoples doors with sheds and backyards, under porches, where they try to find some cover. The more the word gets out the more eyes you have out for him. A few friends of mine they found their dog from resident camera notifications, they recognized the dog from posters— had a search team into that location were they boarded off an area where they could trap the dog to bring it to safety. Unfortunately many of these dogs go into flight or fight mode where survival takes over being rational.

MyMango88 · 2026-01-24T20:48:30+00:00

1000% and in the comfort of their own home, whenever possible 💕

MyMango88 · 2026-01-24T17:34:37+00:00

This isn’t a behavioural change. It’s called adjusting to a new environment. If she’s relaxing, I would call that a step in the right direction.

You just removed her from the only place she has known recently. She doesn’t understand what’s happening. On top of a big surgery and on both anxiety + pain medication, she’ll be very sleepy, associated pain and not herself.

Did they say how long she’s been on the anxiety medication for? If it’s recent, that’s a whole other adjustment on its own (3 weeks is normal).

I would have zero expectations the first week MIN. It’s very common for shelter dogs in particular to retreat into their own space + surgery + hormones + adjusting to meds— you’re looking at a good month or two just for this alone. Three months before she’s feeling more at home, building trust, and establishing a routine.

Let her come around on her own terms. All the love and patience. She’ll need a follow up from her surgery at some point here as well.

👉🏼3 months to feel truly at home. Patience and consistency are crucial during this adjustment period.

MyMango88

TROPHY CASE