Whether your dog is a puppy or a full grown dog, there are many things you, as his/her master, you need to be aware of. Training your dog is an important step in starting off on the right foot and building a good relationship with your pet. All dogs need training for behavior, manners and their safety. Below are some simple tips that will help you on your way to good dog training.
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 Where to begin?
When beginning training, it's a good idea to sit down and write out a plan. Tracking daily behaviors with your dog can help you to see how you are progressing with basic manners. If you live in a multiperson household, it can assist with one of the key issues to watch out for in training-consistency! |
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 Post your action plan!
Take your written plan and post it in a common area of your household where everyone can see it-on your refrigerator, on the family computer, or anywhere you are certain the whole family will see it.. Make sure all family members take part in training. It's also important to take the time each day to discuss progress, such as at dinner time , or if you walk the dog together as a family at night. |
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 After your puppy is home
Invest in a good set of baby gates and use them to keep your puppy from getting into trouble in your house.Keep your puppy in a safe area when you aren't able to watch it.
Get a variety of toys for your puppy, but only leave a few down at any time. Rotate them regularly so your puppy doesn't get bored and try to play with inappropriate objects-like your shoes!Â
Begin crate training. It is great in helping with house training, having a dog who is comfortable in a crate can be a real asset. Crate-trained dogs are less stressed when they need to be confined during transport.
Start looking for training classes now, starting a puppy out right away will make your relationship with your dog much happier.
Keep objects that you don't want chewed on out of the puppies reach. (SHOES, TOYS, ELECTRICAL CORDS) they can be dangerous to the puppy.
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 Socialization is Key
Socialization Tip: Visit your veterinary clinic with your puppy to help him learn that it's a great place to be. Bring a handful of treats or a favorite toy with you, and have the puppy meet the staff.Â
Food-stuffed toys are a great way to keep your puppy occupied while you are busy. Fill the toys with kibble and other treats, you can freeze them making it a great chew toy for your puppy that will keep him busy and good for teething.
Reinforce the four-on-the-floor rule! While it's cute now for a little puppy to jump up on people, this will quickly get annoying as he gets bigger, especially with medium and large breeds.
Get your puppy used to being handled right away! Gently play with his paws, ears, tail, head, and body while rewarding him with treats or getting to play with a favorite toy. A dog who is comfortable being handled will find veterinary and grooming visits much less stressful.
If you have children in the house, make sure they understand how to play properly with the puppy; don't allow any "roughhousing," which can increase mouthy and nippy behavior. |