Mastering Puppy Training: Essential Tricks for New Owners
Puppy TRAINING – The FIRST 5 Things To Teach Any Puppy!
The Joy of Puppy Training
Possibly the only downside to the sheer joy of bringing a new puppy home is the daunting prospect of training it. However, the unrivalled elation of seeing your puppy confidently respond to your commands makes it all absolutely worth it.
The warm puppy breath, the soft fur and the trusting eyes promise a blissful, mutual relationship. But the impact of untrained behavior like peeing on the rug, chewing the shoes, or incessant barking at unseen threats at 3 am can quickly turn your dream pet journey into a nightmare.
So, how do you shape your delightful puppy into a well-behaved adult dog?
The Practical Approach to Puppy Training
Understanding Puppy Psychology
Step one of puppy training is understanding that a puppy is not a miniature adult dog. Their brain is still developing, and they're learning all about the world in real-time.
The Importance of Socialization
Between weeks three and twelve, the puppy is in a socialization stage: a critical window of opportunity where it is exceedingly receptive to learning about its environment. Make the most of this period. Introduce your puppy to a variety of experiences – people of different age groups, other animals, different surface textures, sounds, and environments. This exposure shapes a confident, amiable future dog.
Positive Reinforcement Vs. Punishment
Positive reinforcement, as opposed to a punishment-based approach, brings success to training. In positive reinforcement training, rewards must be immediate and directly linked to the desired behavior. If your puppy obeys your 'sit' command, reward it right then with a small treat, a smile, or gentle praise. On the other hand, punishing your puppy for bad behavior often only creates fear and does not effectively deter misconduct.
The Concept of Consistency
Consistency is key in puppy training. Use the same command words and rewards system all the time. Make sure every family member involved in the puppy's training follows this regimented approach.
Commands and Basic Behaviors
The 'Sit' Command
The 'sit' command is elementary and of much importance. It is the cornerstone upon which other commands are established. Hold a treat close to your puppy's nose, move your hand up, allowing its head to follow the treat and causing its bottom to lower. Once it has seated itself, say 'sit', give it the treat and share affection.
Toilet Training
Toilet training is another critical aspect. Start by setting a schedule. Feed at the same time every day and take your puppy out after every meal. Take it to the same spot each time to do its business. Your puppy will get used to this with time. Reward your puppy after it has finished, not on its way back inside, to ensure it associates the reward with toileting outside and not returning home.
The 'Come' Command
The 'come' command could potentially save your pet's life one day. Start this indoors. With a loose leash, get down to your puppy’s level and say 'come', while gently pulling on the leash. When your puppy gets to you, reward it with affection and a treat.
Bite Inhibition
Puppies love to play-bite. 'Play-bite' is key here. The puppy needs to understand biting is an unacceptable behavior. When your puppy bites, respond with a high-pitched yowl. This method mimics the response of a puppy's littermate. The puppy realizes immediately that its bite caused pain and backs off. The whimpering also disengages the puppy from the game, teaching it the importance of a gentle mouth.
Solving Common Behavior Problems
Barking
Consistent barking can be really taxing. Your puppy might be barking because of fear, boredom, or just to get your attention. It's a long process, but you need to teach your puppy that barking is not a tool to get what it wants. When it starts barking, ignore it completely. Don't look at it, speak to it, or touch it. When it finally quiets, even to take a breath, reward it with a treat. With repetition, your puppy will learn that being quiet gets it a treat, while barking gets it nothing.
Chewing
Understand that all puppies need to chew – it's a natural part of their teething process. Provide plenty of chew toys. When you catch your puppy chewing something it's not supposed to, say 'no' in a firm voice, remove the forbidden object, and replace it with a chew toy.
Jumping Up
For jumping up, start by withholding attention when the puppy jumps. Say "no" in a calm, firm voice and turn your back towards it. Reward your puppy with attention and praise when all four of its feet are on the floor.
Puppy Training FAQs##
Q: When can I start training my puppy?
A: You should start training your puppy as soon as it arrives at your home. Puppies are capable of learning from 8 weeks old.
Q: How long does puppy training usually take?
A: The length of time it takes to train a puppy varies with each individual. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, it usually takes between 4-6 months.
Q: Should I use a professional dog trainer?
A: While you can train a puppy at home, a professional dog trainer can speed up the process. They're accomplished at understanding canine behavior and can teach you how to effectively communicate with your pet.
Conclusion
Training might seem like a long road, but the rewards on the other side are worth the journey. With patience, love and a few treats in your pocket, you can raise an obedient, content, and emotionally healthy dog who is a delight to be around. You have an exciting time ahead, filled with delightful moments. Happy puppy training!
