Getting a new puppy can be an exciting time in any family or new owner’s life, it can also be extremely frustrating and a lot of hard work, especially when tackling puppy training. Sometimes puppies seem to be deliberately causing as much chaos and nuisance as possible and appear determined to destroy our belongings regardless of our best efforts to teach them otherwise!
In reality however, puppies are very similar to babies; they are motivated by what brings them the outcomes they desire, have no real concept of right and wrong and need consequences (good or bad) to happen as a direct consequence of their behavior in order for them to learn.
If your new puppy seems to be constantly engaging in unwanted behavior, instead of labeling them as bad or naughty, you should really think about the way in which you are communicating with them; chances are that you (or other family members) are inadvertently encouraging them to reoffend.
Nobody wants to be a bad dog owner or have a badly behaved dog, so learning how your new best friend processes information and what motivates them to repeat behaviors is crucial for all family members. Even children need to understand how to interact with their new play mate and how to treat them appropriately; after all, your puppy may be smaller than them now, but will grow at a much faster rate than them!
Preparing for puppy training involves a combination of practical steps, learning about your puppy’s needs, and establishing a positive and consistent training routine. Here are some puppy training tips to help you prepare for training your new pooch:
Educate Yourself:
- Read books or watch videos on basic puppy training principles.
- Understand dog behavior and communication to better interpret your puppy’s actions.
Create a Safe Environment:
- Puppy-proof your home by removing potential hazards and providing safe toys.
- Set up a designated area where your puppy can rest and sleep.
Basic Supplies:
- Gather essential supplies, including a collar, leash, water and food bowls, a comfortable bed, and appropriate toys.
Visit the Vet:
- Schedule a veterinary check-up to ensure your puppy is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Discuss spaying/neutering, if not already done.
Establish a Routine:
- Puppies thrive on routine, so set up a consistent schedule for feeding, bathroom breaks, playtime, and training sessions.
Puppy Socialization:
- Introduce your puppy to various people, places, and other animals to help them become well-adjusted adults. Puppy socialization is incredibly important to help ensure your puppy doesn’t have anxiety or aggression around other dogs and people.
Basic Commands:
- Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come.
- Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to encourage good behavior.
Patience and Consistency:
- Training takes time, so be patient and consistent with your commands and rewards.
- Keep training sessions short and positive to maintain your puppy’s interest.
Potty Training:
- Establish a routine for bathroom breaks, especially after eating, drinking, and waking up.
- Use positive reinforcement when your puppy eliminates in the appropriate area.
Handling and Grooming:
- Get your puppy used to being handled, including grooming activities like brushing and nail clipping.
- Make these experiences positive using positive reinforcement with treats and praise.
Enroll in Puppy Training Classes:
- Consider enrolling in a puppy training class, where your puppy can learn in a controlled environment and socialize with other dogs.
Be Positive:
- Maintain a positive attitude during training. Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement.
Correct Undesirable Behavior:
- Use redirection and positive reinforcement to correct undesirable behaviors rather than punishment.
Seek Professional Help if Needed:
- If you encounter challenges, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
Remember, building a strong bond with your puppy through positive interactions and consistent training will contribute to a well-behaved and happy companion.
Check out more puppy training tips with our handy blogs and videos to help you become an expert dog owner!