Congratulations, Karen! I am so happy for you.

The website the Laurie recommended for you in the other thread is excellent. Those trainers also have authored an excellent book called *Good Owners, Great Dogs* which as a new dog person it might be worthwhile to get a copy.

I know you must be a bit overwhelmed right now, but just use common sense, like any new mother would. Your dog doesn't look like a puppy anymore, so you will have the advantage of better bladder control, but the general rule of thumb would probably apply, for going outside to potty: first thing in the morning, the very last thing at night, after eating, after vigorous play, and maybe at the least every four hours during the daytime for starters.

All that said, your dog will have its own personal habits, which you want to make a mental note of. Often it is better to adapt yourself to their schedule. Mine generally poop around 4 pm. and eat around 5:00 pm so they don't have to poop after eating. Maybe they will ask to go out sometime in the evening, but generally don't have to go again until right before bedtime (which in this house is quite early). The upshot is that you and your dog will work out a schedule together. It is going to take a while for you both to figure it out. The key word here is schedule. A consistant routine can be very helpful to the dog.

Please let us know all the details of what is going on. This is so very much fun for us to be involved with you in this wonderful experience. You will love living your life in the company of a dog.