Getting a new puppy is a very exciting time.
They're so tiny and cute. All you want to do is cuddle and spoil them.
That's a natural reaction!
But puppies need a lot of care and training from a young age to become well-behaved adult dogs.
If you're new to the world of puppy training, it may seem like a daunting task. But let me assure you that it's 100% necessary and not as complicated as it first may sound.
With the right approach, tips and tricks, puppy training can be a fun and rewarding experience for you and your new little fur baby.
Let's explore.
Quick puppy training facts all pet owners need to know
Start puppy training early (between 8-12 weeks old) after they've had their vaccinations
Don't punish your puppy for bad behaviour, and always use positive reinforcement training
Keep the same commands (and make sure everyone in the house uses the same ones)
Always use the same puppy treats that they love
Incorporate play and games into your training sessions
Be consistent with your puppy training
If bad behaviour continues despite training, consider speaking to your vet or a professional dog trainer
The top 5 reasons why puppy training is so important
1. Puppy training turns your dog into a happy, confident adult
Start socialising your puppy early! It's one of the best things you can do to teach your puppy about the world, helping them become aware of their surroundings, things that can happen and to feel comfortable. When puppies aren't socialised with humans or other dogs, they may become aggressive, fearful or anxious when they're adults.
HINT: Puppy classes are a great way to socialise your puppy. It's also best to
include them doing things with you each day.
2. Puppy training helps you bond with your puppy
When you train your puppy, you'll develop your unique language of communication with them, promoting security and comfort. Use positive reinforcement training, which rewards your puppy for good behaviour, and you'll build your bond based on mutual trust and respect.
3. Puppy training is essential for everyone's safety
Basic puppy training is vital for your puppy's safety and those around you. For example, teaching them to come when called could prevent them from running onto a busy road. Or if you have a crawling toddler approaching a lying dog, you can call the dog over before your baby has a chance to climb onto the dog and potentially startle them.
If your puppy has a special spot and is trained to stay (e.g. a mat or a bed), this will help them remain calm when visitors arrive or the household gets busy.
4. Puppy training reduces bad behaviour
Many dog owners don't realise bad behaviour until their puppy is an adult, which makes training harder. By starting positive reinforcement early, you'll eliminate future issues.
For example, if you arrive home from work and your (now adult) dog jumps all over you, it may be because you encouraged this as a puppy with lots of cuddles. So, in this instance, start early to teach your puppy that they'll get attention when they are sitting or calm and then give them positive reinforcement of this behaviour that you'd find acceptable when they're an adult.
5. Puppy training keeps them mentally stimulated
It's no secret that puppies can get destructive when they're bored. Puppy training becomes fun for all involved, and your puppy will love the distraction and mental stimulation. But, as soon as you see your puppy getting frustrated or starting to ignore you, end the training session to keep it a fun experience.
The top 7 ways to encourage good behaviour in your puppy
Start puppy training early as they'll absorb everything in their first few months – expose them to life experiences and take them out with you.
Use positive reinforcement with puppy training, rewarding them with treats, praise and affection for good behaviour.
Stay consistent with puppy training, especially with your routine (feeding, walking & training) and ensure everyone does the same thing.
Start socialising with your puppy and expose them to people, animals, and environments (sights, sounds, and adventures) to prevent adult behavioural problems.
Keep puppy training sessions short to match your puppy's attention span (5- 10 minutes several times a day will help your puppy stay focused and engaged).
Teach your puppy basic commands like sit, stay and come as essential words to communicate with your puppy.
Take your puppy out for exercise, as it's crucial for their physical and mental well-being and can prevent behavioural issues like chewing, digging and excessive barking.
Do you need help with your new puppy?
I've been a trusted pet minder and dog walker at Glen Iris for many years. I'm also a dog owner and know the ins and outs of puppy training.
If you need any help with your new puppy, I'm here to help. I can take them out for a walk, teach them how to walk on a lead, pop over for house visits when you can't be home, or take them to the vets if you can't make an appointment (e.g. for their vaccinations).
You can see all of my services here.
Booking pet sitting is easy using my online booking form.
And here are a couple of my other blogs you may be interested in reading:
Until next time, pat your fur babies for me!
PS – If you've recently welcomed a new puppy into your home, I'd love to hear how you're doing. Feel free to drop your exciting news in the comments below.
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